Funding deepens ongoing commitment to accelerate inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and world-class cancer studies in Washington and Oregon
Vancouver, Wash. — June 11, 2025 — In its largest Spring Grant Cycle to date, the Kuni Foundation awarded more than $13.4 million to support bold innovation in cancer research and greater inclusion for people with IDD. The Foundation increased available funds during its latest grant cycle in response to an unprecedented number of proposals combined with ongoing uncertainty with federal funding.
Expanding Access, Inclusion and Innovation for People with IDD
Spanning rural and urban areas across Washington and Oregon, the Kuni Foundation awarded Imagination Grants to 23 community-based nonprofits serving individuals and families with IDD. A wide range of diverse projects were funded, including housing advocacy, support services for youth, inclusive community spaces, assistive technology, among other critically important focus areas.
Fair Housing Council of Oregon received an Imagination Grant to promote housing access and rights for people with IDD. Public parks and community spaces also received funding, including Treehouse Therapies Associates in support of the McVey Clinic’s Inclusive Playground for underserved people with IDD in rural and tribal communities in Washington. Portland Parks Foundation received a grant to fund inclusive equipment for the renovated George Park based on community engagement and input from the local IDD community.
Recognizing the growing impact and potential of technology to drive inclusion and independence, PROVAIL received funds to expand its Pacific NW Adaptive Technology Library. Early interventions and support also received Kuni Foundation grants, including Skagit Preschool and Resource Center (SPARC) in service to rural communities; and Ryther to deepen its case management services for unhoused youth with IDD.
The Kuni Foundation also provided funding for IDD advocacy in partnership with several statewide organizations, including The Arc Oregon, The Arc of Washington State, Community Vision, FACT Oregon, and PEACE NW.
Advancing the Next Generation of Cancer Research
Building on the Pacific Northwest’s cancer research leadership, the Kuni Foundation funded 13 projects focused on the development of innovative therapies, improved detection, and accessible treatments. University of Washington Medicine received three Discovery Grants for research on ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and radiation-based treatment strategies.
Two Discovery Grants were awarded to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) to study early detection and monitoring of colorectal cancer and leveraging hibernation to advance a cure for glioblastoma. Fred Hutch Cancer Center received six Discovery Grants in support of a wide range of innovative and promising studies, including new targeted cancer therapies, personalized treatments, and precision medicine.
“The timing of these awards could not be more perfect. As we navigate the challenges posed by fluctuating federal funding, the Foundation’s support provides a beacon of hope and stability,” said Katrina Welch-Reardon, PhD, Program Director, Foundation Relations at Fred Hutch Cancer Center. “It empowers us to continue our efforts with renewed vigor and determination, and these grants will have a transformative impact on our ability to serve our community and advance our initiatives.”
Below is a full list of the latest round of grant recipients:
2025 Discovery Grants for Cancer Research
Oregon Health & Science University
University of Washington Medicine
2025 Imagination Grants for IDD Inclusion
Albertina Kerr – Oregon
Fair Housing Council of Oregon – Oregon
Holly Ridge Center – Washington
Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp – Oregon
North Pole Studio – Oregon
Open Doors for Multicultural Families – Washington
Portland Parks Foundation – Oregon
PROVAIL – Washington
Ryther – Washington
Sherwood Community Services – Washington
Skagit Preschool and Resource Center – Washington
Special Olympics Oregon – Oregon
Steps – Washington
The Arc of Grays Harbor – Washington
The Divergent Gift: Unboxing Autism – Oregon
The Friendship Circle of Washington – Washington
The Shadow Project – Oregon
Tierra Learning Center – Washington
Treehouse Therapies Associates – Washington
Victory Academy – Oregon
Washington Initiative for Supported Employment – Washington
Wonderland Child & Family Services – Washington
Willamette Vocational Resource Community – Oregon
About the Kuni Foundation
The Kuni Foundation advances the power of human potential. Based in Vancouver, Washington, we support scientists revolutionizing cancer research and advance inclusive opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Since 2017 the Foundation has awarded more than $86 million to organizations throughout Oregon and Washington in service to its mission. Visit kunifoundation.org to learn more.
