Honoring Native American Heritage Month: Transforming cancer care across the Northwest
The Pacific Northwest is a global leader in cancer research, home to innovative science and transformational studies across our region. Yet not all communities benefit equally from these advances. Native American and Alaska Native communities throughout Washington and Oregon face higher rates of cancer diagnoses than the general population—and, in Washington, a higher rate of death from cancer. These disparities are compounded
Creating pathways to employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Since the U.S. first recognized National Disability Employment Awareness Month in 1945, systemic barriers and inequities have persisted despite decades of advocacy and progress. Today, for example, the unemployment rate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) remains nearly twice as high as for those without disabilities. Across Washington and Oregon, the Kuni Foundation is honored to partner with community nonprofits that
Honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Local researchers driving global impact
Each October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month offers a moment to reflect on progress and recommit to advancing cancer research and care. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we are fortunate to live in a region that is driving and defining the future of cancer innovation. The Kuni Foundation is honored to partner with world-class cancer researchers in Washington and Oregon, supporting
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month: Accelerating Innovation
Cancer remains the leading cause of disease-related death in children, and for those diagnosed with aggressive bone sarcomas such as Ewing sarcoma and osteosarcoma, survival rates have not improved in decades. These cancers often return after treatment, spreading to distant parts of the body and leaving children and families with few options. Across the Pacific Northwest, scientists are working to
A playground that unites and inspires
Fruit Valley Park in Vancouver, Washington, spans six acres and serves more than 1,000 households, a central gathering space known for its natural beauty, community garden, and movie nights. The well-loved playground needed replacement, and the Kuni Foundation worked collaboratively with the City of Vancouver to reimagine the space with a focus on inclusive design that welcomed children of all
Kuni Foundation awards $13.4 million to advance IDD inclusion and cancer research across the Pacific Northwest
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
