ABOUT US
EPIC (Empowering People in Communities) is a Hilltop-rooted organization dedicated to strengthening community through connection, leadership, and collective action. Founded by longtime resident and community leader Brendan Nelson, EPIC brings residents, small businesses, and institutions into meaningful relationship to address real needs and shape the future of the neighborhood.
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EPIC’s work is grounded in responsiveness—supporting food access, housing stability, and resource connection—while investing in leadership and building capacity from within the community. Through partnerships and community-driven initiatives, EPIC helps ensure that growth and change in Hilltop reflect the voices, priorities, and lived experiences of the people who call it home.
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Rather than operating as a traditional program-driven nonprofit, EPIC serves as a connector and catalyst—strengthening the relationships and systems that allow communities to thrive​.
Community Impact Highlights
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Supported the launch of 3 BIPOC-led nonprofit organizations in Hilltop
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Fiscal sponsor for the largest BIPOC Farmers Market in Pierce County
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Provided 2,000+ meals to individuals and families
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Distributed 300+ backpacks with school supplies to students
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Connected 75 families to Wi-Fi access during the pandemic
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Awarded $5,000 in scholarships to students of color
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Assisted 15 families with housing deposits and down payments
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Helped establish a no-barrier food access site with 5 community partners
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Developed leadership programming for young men of color
Brendan Nelson is a Hilltop-based community leader, organizer, and capacity builder whose work is rooted in bringing people together to strengthen community from within. A longtime Tacoma resident, Brendan has spent more than two decades working at the intersection of community engagement, leadership development, and grassroots action.
He is the founding Executive Director of Empowering People in Communities (EPIC), where he leads efforts to connect residents, small businesses, and institutions in addressing real needs and building long-term community resilience. Through EPIC, Brendan has helped mobilize community-driven initiatives focused on housing stability, food access, leadership development, and economic opportunity—always grounded in the belief that lasting change comes from people working together.
Brendan also serves as a founding Board Member of Aya Community Land Trust contributing to efforts to expand permanently affordable homeownership and ensure that development reflects community voice and long-term stewardship. His commitment to connection and collaboration extends across his leadership roles, including serving on the boards of the Center for Dialog & Resolution and Palmer Scholars, and as Director of Community Engagement and Outreach at Peace Lutheran Church in Tacoma.
Brendan’s work is grounded in lived experience, deep relationships, and a commitment to equity in action. Across all of his roles, he focuses on building trust, developing leaders, and ensuring that communities have both the voice and the capacity to shape their own future.
