Imagining a world where everyone is engaged and thriving in community.

 
 

Urban Impact was founded in 1987 to address the complex realities of urban poverty in Seattle’s Rainier Valley. 

It was built on the principles of Christian Community Development and a unique relationship with neighborhood churches.

As poverty migrated throughout the greater Seattle region, our landscape grew as well.  Today we are engaged in three distinct neighborhoods. 

Generational poverty has social, material and spiritual implications. Breaking it requires a holistic approach that addresses both the personal and systemic challenges of poverty.  We desire to see all families reconciled to God, where everyone is engaged and thriving in community. 

Our Story

 
 

The greatest teacher that ever existed taught us that change comes from within, and that we can only affect change in this world through others in authentic relationship with them.

Inspired and dedicated to this work of transformation, for the sake of community, for the sake of each person and family, we employ the following practices across our programs:

1. Engage in relationships.

2. Listen to community.

3. Build and create solutions.

4. Develop leaders.

 

Our Values

 

Reconciliation

Right relationship with God is made possible through Jesus‘ life, death and resurrection. Reconciliation with self and others is made complete where mercy, forgiveness and healing are generously given and received, so all may flourish.

The Church

We walk alongside the local church in the development of programs as they seek to serve their community. We actively engage in and serve in the local church. In all we do, we promote the life of the church as a supportive relational community.

Neighborhood

We are rooted in and invested in neighborhoods we serve by engaging in relationships, listening and addressing felt needs, and building on the assets of our community.

Racial Justice

We value equity for all cultures and ethnic groups, challenging dominant culture, attitudes of power and privilege, so we may work towards God’s design for all people.

Our Vision

All people reconciled with God, where everyone is engaged and thriving in community.

Our Mission

To break the cycle of social, material and spiritual poverty and build healthy communities.