Funded Projects
In Walla Walla, this annual event brings together neighbors, families, artists, musicians, educators, and local organizations to honor the significance of June 19, 1865—the day news of emancipation finally reached the last enslaved people in Texas, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
The Walla Walla Juneteenth Celebration creates a welcoming space for learning, reflection, and joy through live music, spoken word, cultural performances, local vendors, youth activities, and opportunities for meaningful community connection. By celebrating Black history, culture, and achievement, the event fosters understanding, strengthens relationships, and affirms the importance of equity, belonging, and shared humanity.
The Running Waters Equity Fund is proud to support community-led events like Juneteenth that increase cultural visibility, honor historically underrepresented voices, and create opportunities for people of all backgrounds to come together in celebration and solidarity. These gatherings help build a more connected, inclusive, and vibrant Walla Walla Valley for everyone.
The Washington Youth Alliance empowers young people to become confident leaders, engaged community members, and advocates for positive change. Through youth-led programming, leadership development, mentorship, and community engagement, the organization creates opportunities for young people to build skills, strengthen relationships, and develop a sense of belonging.
The Running Waters Equity Fund is proud to support the Walla Walla chapter of Washington Youth Alliance's efforts to ensure that all youth—particularly those from historically underserved communities—have access to meaningful opportunities to learn, lead, and thrive. By investing in young people and their ideas, the Alliance helps cultivate the next generation of leaders while fostering a more equitable and connected community throughout the Walla Walla Valley.
The Cultural Fund expands opportunities for community organizations and cultural groups whose work aligns with the vision and mission of the Running Waters Equity Fund. By helping cover the costs of downtown banner pole rentals and banner production, the fund increases visibility for historically underrepresented communities, cultural celebrations, and community initiatives.
Through this investment, The Cultural Fund helps create a more welcoming and representative downtown Walla Walla—one where the diversity of our community is celebrated, stories are shared, and all people can see themselves reflected in our public spaces.