Impact
Clients Served.
17Clients Served Family Child Care Provider Empowerment Network in 2021
55 Clients Served Small Business Program in 2021
2 Clients Served Wrap-Around Support Program in 2022
320 Clients Served from 2020 – 2023
22 Clients Served Family Child Care Provider Empowerment Network in 2023
25 Clients Served Small Business Program in 2023
128 Clients Served Wrap-Around Support Program in 2023
Empowering Communities, Transforming Lives: A Message from Taniesha Lyons, Executive Director of FW Black Collective
In 2018, a group of determined community leaders came together to create the FW Black Collective (FWBC). Their vision was clear: to empower and unite the Black community in Federal Way, Washington, and South King County, addressing disparities in services and creating equitable opportunities for all. In 2020, this dream became a reality as FWBC officially gained 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, deepening its commitment to the community it serves.
Today, FWBC stands as a beacon of hope and change, committed to delivering culturally responsive programs that meet the needs of the Black community and beyond. Though we center the needs and voices of Black individuals, FWBC is a place where everyone is welcome. Guided by our values and with over 50 years of combined experience in community work, we proudly champion a strengths-focused, bottom-up approach that ensures our efforts are driven by the voices of those we serve.
Our Impact: Numbers That Matter
Over the years, FWBC has been a catalyst for meaningful change, addressing critical community needs through our Wrap-Around Support Program (WASP) and Small Business Network (SBN).
Wrap-Around Support Program (WASP)
- Mental Health Access: Partnering with BetterHelp, FWBC provided 10 free therapy sessions to participants, making mental health care more accessible.
- Housing Stability: Assisted over 30 families in securing stable housing, preventing homelessness and promoting resilience.
- Empowered Living: WASP’s financial literacy education equips individuals with the tools to make informed decisions, fostering independence.
One client, LaMekia Evans, shared:
“The FW Black Collective is a much-needed asset to the community. They helped my family in a time of need and provided additional resources and reassurance. I implore citizens to pour into them so they may continue to pour into the people who need them.”
“The FW Black Collective is a much-needed asset to the community. They helped my family in a time of need and provided additional resources and reassurance. I implore citizens to pour into them so they may continue to pour into the people who need them.”
Small Business Network (SBN)
- Direct Support: From 2022 to 2024, SBN supported 360 businesses, providing crucial resources like grant writing and marketing assistance.
- Credit Building Pilot Program: Helped 20 small businesses secure funding to scale operations, empowering them to unlock new opportunities.
One entrepreneur, Trang Nguyen, reflected:
“Heaven’s patience and professionalism made all the difference. As English is my second language, she ensured I understood every step of the process. I’m grateful for FWBC’s support.”Growth Over Time
The metrics tell a powerful story of impact:
“Heaven’s patience and professionalism made all the difference. As English is my second language, she ensured I understood every step of the process. I’m grateful for FWBC’s support.”Growth Over Time
The metrics tell a powerful story of impact:
- 154 individuals served in 2022 through WASP and SBN programs.
- 95 in 2023, during a year of resource challenges.
- 111 in 2024, showcasing a resurgence and increased focus on program quality.
Community Impact: Collaboration for Change
Our work does not happen in isolation. FWBC partners with organizations like GoWest Credit Union and the Department of Commerce to amplify impact. Through initiatives such as credit-building programs and strategic grant-writing support, we are not only empowering individuals and businesses but also creating ripple effects of economic growth and stability within the broader community.
The Need for Support
The demand for FWBC’s services continues to grow, but our ability to meet that demand relies on funding and community support. Systemic inequities, housing instability, and mental health challenges persist, and we cannot do this work alone. Your donations directly enable us to:
- Expand access to mental health services.
- Provide housing assistance to families in crisis.
- Support small and minority-owned businesses in building sustainable futures.
- Advocate for policy changes that create long-term community benefits.
A Call to Action
Together, we can build a future where every individual, regardless of race or background, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute. By investing in FW Black Collective, you are not just supporting programs—you are creating a legacy of empowerment and equity.
Let us continue to empower, inspire, and transform lives. Your contribution, whether through funding, collaboration, or advocacy, ensures our work continues.
Let us continue to empower, inspire, and transform lives. Your contribution, whether through funding, collaboration, or advocacy, ensures our work continues.
Join us in this journey. Let’s make change happen—together.
bit.ly/FWBC-Donate
bit.ly/FWBC-Donate
With gratitude and hope,
Taniesha Lyons
Executive Director, FW Black Collective
Taniesha Lyons
Executive Director, FW Black Collective
