Serving Black, Indigenous, People of Color Community Organizations in Washington State.
The Communities of Concern Commission provides training, technical assistance, and operational support to BIPOC citizens by helping local community organizations grow, scale, and meet the needs of the people they serve.
Our Community Member Projects
Chief Seattle Club built Sacred Medicine House, 120 units of permanent supportive, Indigenous-informed housing for people experiencing homelessness.
People Impacted: 350
Housing Units: 120
Location: Lake City, WA
Completed: April 2024
District: 46
Asian Pacific Cultural Center built a permanent multi-faceted facility to serve the asian-pacific community and draw visitors from abroad for decades to come.
People Impacted: 10,000
Square Footage: 18,500
Location: Tacoma, WA
Completed: April 2024
District: 27
The Ethiopian Community in Seattle, opened Ethiopian Village - a contemporary, supportive five-story community for adults 55+ who earn low incomes.
People Impacted: 200
Housing Units: 90
Location: Seattle, WA
Completed: April 2023
District: 37
Legislative Impact
Measurable change in communities across Washington State
Equity & Justice
Addressing systemic inequities and ensuring fair distribution of resources to communities disproportionately affected by poverty.
Community-Led
Led by BIPOC leaders who understand the unique needs and strengths of urban and rural communities across Washington State.
Affordable Housing
Facilitating the creation of safe, affordable housing options and essential facilities specifically designed for BIPOC communities.
Economic Growth
Enabling investments and capital projects that drive sustainable economic development in underserved areas.
Services to Member Organizations
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We help organizations build strong foundations through:
Nonprofit management and governance coaching
Grant-readiness and grant-reporting support
Leadership development
Organizational assessments
Compliance and operational training
Real Estate Justice–focused capacity training (zoning, permitting, predevelopment)
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We support long-term organizational stability through:
Micro-grants for staffing and administrative support
Back-office and operational systems strengthening
Support for financial management, budgeting, and fiscal controls
Guidance and technical help to prepare for audits
Connections to vetted CPA firms and financial professionals
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We elevate member voices at the state level through:
An annual legislative agenda
Policy and advocacy trainings
Support for testimony and lobbying
Statewide policy tracking and updates
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We help organizations move into real estate and community-building work by offering:
Predevelopment technical assistance
Support for feasibility, zoning, and permitting
Connections to lenders, developers, and architects
Real Estate Justice resources and consulting
Apply for Funding
CoCC facilitates investments in affordable housing and essential facilities for BIPOC communities. Learn how your organization can apply for project funding.
Eligible Project Types
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Community centers and gathering spaces
Health and wellness facilities
Educational facilities
Job training and economic development centers
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Multi-family residential developments
Single-family home construction
Housing rehabilitation and preservation
Transitional and supportive housing
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Childcare facilities
Food security and community gardens
Cultural and heritage centers
Transportation and accessibility improvements
Application Timeline
CoCC accepts applications on a bi-annual basis. Plan ahead and submit your application early