Essential Skills: 2021 Program Outcomes

The Essential Skills Program was developed by ZONE partners to provide the knowledge and tools necessary to apply for a job or training program. We are very pleased to celebrate the completion of our first pilot with amazing graduates! 2021 Program Outcomes The curriculum builds self-confidence through career exploration, matching aptitudes, interests, and a clear path…

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The Gathering ZONE: Connecting people and opportunities at the Hillyard Community Campus

Residents, agencies, and leaders came together as the new construction was being completed on the Hillyard Community Campus to create a plan that builds support and opportunity for everyone that gathers here. Our efforts and early successes are ensuring that preschoolers, families with school-aged children, seniors in the community…and you, are all welcome here. Watch…

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Jack Green: The Generous and Community-Minded Owner of Green’s Fresh Market

Jack Green Jack Green is the owner of Green’s Fresh Market in the Hillyard neighborhood and has a long history in the grocery business. Some might remember Jack when he owned and operated Piccolo’s Italian Market and when he managed Cassano’s Italian Grocery store in the Chief Garry Neighborhood. As a resident and partner in…

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Rent Increases Dramatically Impacting Northeast Residents

Residents of Northeast Spokane and even some from other areas in Spokane are facing significant impacts to their housing stability as well as their mental health. A recent online survey completed by residents showed that rental rate increases vary wildly and 91% of the respondents told us they were given notice of a rental rate increase. Financial…

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Ronako Mejbon: A Partner with a Passion for Community Health

“I’m honored and grateful that I get to help my Marshallese community.”—Ronako Mejbon Ronako Mejbon has played many important roles in her life – as a daughter, a mother, a community navigator, a nursing assistant and now as a community health worker at CHAS Health partnering with The ZONE at Northeast Community Center. She has…

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Darcelina Soloria: Resident, Advocate, Mother, and ZONE Champion

Darcelina Soloria Stand for Children is one of our ZONE partners, reaching families and helping students gain the academic supports that will propel them to their best life. And representing Stand for Children in Eastern Washington is Darcelina Soloria.  She is a Northeast resident and mom to two children. When her eldest’s school was in…

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New Report Emphasizes Impact of Immigrants in Spokane’s Economy

“All families need access to equitable employment and entrepreneurial opportunities to thrive. The ZONE is committed to working with partners throughout Spokane to remove barriers and create inclusive spaces with our immigrant and refugee neighbors.”— Amber Waldref, Director, The ZONE New research from New American Economy underscores the critical role immigrants in Spokane city and…

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Resident and teacher Whitney Bowerman asks, “What are YOU going to do?”

Whitney Bowerman Whitney Bowerman was born and raised in northeast Spokane and is proud of her neighborhood and Rogers High School, where she graduated valedictorian in 2005. So proud that she continues to live and raise her family in the neighborhood, is married to another Rogers grad, and is now a science teacher and coach…

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