Programs

EPIC’s work is rooted in connection—bringing people together to respond to real needs, build leadership, and strengthen community from within. Rather than operating through rigid program structures, EPIC develops and supports initiatives that are responsive to the moment, grounded in relationships, and shaped by the voices of the community.

Our programs reflect a simple idea: when people are connected, resourced, and supported, communities are better equipped to thrive and shape their own future.

The 1615 Collective is a multigenerational group of trusted community leaders rooted in Tacoma’s Hilltop neighborhood. Convened by EPIC, the Collective serves as a credible, community-based voice in conversations about housing and real estate development.

Grounded in lived experience, history, and deep relationships, the Collective exists to ensure that growth in Hilltop is guided by the people who know the community best. It provides engagement, insight, and accountability to developers, builders, and organizations seeking to invest in the neighborhood.

Through intentional dialogue and community-centered feedback, the 1615 Collective:

Elevates community voice in development decisions
Provides insight shaped by lived experience and neighborhood history
Helps align projects with community priorities and long-term stability

At its core, the 1615 Collective is about stewardship—bridging generations, strengthening belonging, and helping ensure that development in Hilltop reflects and supports the people who call it home.

Community Resource Support

EPIC provides direct, community-based support to individuals and families in Hilltop, helping meet immediate needs while strengthening long-term stability.

This work includes:

Food distribution and access through community partnerships
Housing-related support, including assistance with deposits and move-in needs
Distribution of essential goods such as school supplies and household items

These efforts are intentionally low-barrier and responsive—designed to meet people where they are and connect them to broader networks of support.

Past Initiatives

Microenterprise and Small Business Support

EPIC has supported local entrepreneurs and small business owners—particularly those from historically underserved communities—through relationship-based guidance, resource connection, and visibility.

This work has helped strengthen Hilltop’s local economy by supporting businesses that serve as both economic and cultural anchors in the community.

Community-Based Research and Engagement

EPIC has partnered with public agencies and research institutions to lead community-based participatory research efforts in Hilltop. Through facilitated conversations and workshops, EPIC helped center the voices and experiences of Black and African American residents in discussions about neighborhood change, environmental conditions, and quality of life.

This work contributed to more informed decision-making while reinforcing the importance of community voice in shaping policy and investment.

COVID-19 Response Initiatives

During the COVID-19 pandemic, EPIC mobilized quickly to support community stability. Efforts included:

Providing meals to individuals and families
Distributing school supplies to students
Connecting families to Wi-Fi access to support remote learning

These initiatives reflected EPIC’s ability to respond in real time to emerging needs while leveraging community partnerships.

Scholarships and Educational Support

EPIC has provided targeted financial support to students of color pursuing higher education, including assistance with tuition and academic expenses such as thesis completion.

Through efforts like the Daniel H. Russell Scholarship, EPIC has recognized leadership and achievement while helping remove barriers to educational advancement.