Foundations for a Better Oregon
Our Vision
We envision a better Oregon that hears, values, and cares for every child. Communities, policymakers, system leaders, and philanthropy forge networks of trust, honor Oregon’s complexity, and move as one to remedy the historical and emerging injustices facing children. Public systems authentically engage families and communities in design and decision-making to uphold our collective commitment to children. Together, Oregonians nurture children’s learning, aspirations, and humanity, and every child knows that they belong.
As student outcomes lag, educational disparities persist, strikes make headlines, economic forecasts shift, and federal actions spark fear, it was a pivotal year for state lawmakers to take action.
Gov. Tina Kotek signed two bills funding academic and enrichment programs for students across Oregon through 2027.
Over a hundred policy, community, and education leaders discussed opportunities to accelerate and sustain progress for Oregon children.
Former Rep. Barbara Smith Warner and Sen. Arnie Roblan—architects of the Student Success Act—explain why this landmark legislation should be a model for all of Oregon’s K-12 funding.
Oregon's Student Success Act
A New Five-Part Series Illuminates Five Years of Implementation and Impact
ADVANCING OREGON’S COMMITMENT TO EVERY CHILD
What We Do
FBO is demystifying complex systems and elevating community-driven solutions to disrupt the historical and emerging injustices facing Oregon children and families.
Who We Are
At Foundations for a Better Oregon (FBO), we are fervent believers in Oregon’s children, families, and communities. We are conveners, researchers, advocates, and storytellers. And we are systems thinkers and bridge builders, reimagining how Oregon supports every child to learn, grow, and thrive.
What We Believe
We believe Oregon’s children are a shared responsibility. FBO's values, theory of change, and partnerships drive our work to ensure Oregon lives up to this sacred responsibility.
Our Strategic Priorities
Community Data, Research, and Story Inform Solutions
To hold systems accountable, Oregon communities—especially those historically erased in “official” data—need meaningful opportunities to shape research, share stories, and inform solutions.
Investment in Education Is Equitable & Coherent
To support every child to learn, grow, and thrive, Oregon’s investment in public education has to be equitable, sustainable, transparent, coherent, and accountable—especially for historically underserved children.
Decision-Making Is Inclusive & Participatory
To solve complex problems, authentic community engagement is vital—and in a healthy democracy, it requires so much more than a town hall meeting.
Acknowledging Native Land, Lives, and Ways of Knowing
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