When we talk about building healthier communities at FamilyCare, we don’t just mean clinics and care plans. We mean strong systems of trust. We mean access to information. We mean communities who know their rights, their options, and their power.
That’s why we believe journalism is part of the public health ecosystem. It’s also why we’re proud to spotlight Willamette Week, one of Oregon’s most enduring sources of independent news.
Founded in 1974, Willamette Week (WW) is more than an alt-weekly. It’s a civic watchdog, a cultural lens, and a space where Portlanders stay informed, curious, and connected.
Their commitment to investigative reporting has had a real impact on public life in Oregon. From uncovering political misconduct to examining structural failures in housing, healthcare, and policing, WW consistently tells the stories that institutions often prefer to keep quiet.
This kind of journalism doesn’t just inform. It protects. It creates transparency in the systems that shape our lives, which deeply aligns with FamilyCare’s belief that systems should change, not people.
Access to accurate, independent information is as critical to public health as access to medical care. Without trusted news, communities are more vulnerable to misinformation, disenfranchisement, and social fragmentation.
In moments of crisis—whether during wildfires, COVID surges, or urgent policy shifts—Willamette Week has served as a reliable conduit between the public and the information they need. They help readers understand policy changes, navigate social services, and stay connected to local efforts for justice and equity.
For many, their coverage is a lifeline. Not just for staying informed, but for feeling seen.
Beyond its investigative work, Willamette Week is also a cultural and philanthropic amplifier. Through initiatives like the Give!Guide, they have raised tens of millions for Oregon nonprofits. This campaign brings visibility and funding to grassroots organizations working in housing, food insecurity, youth support, mental health, and more.
It’s not just media, it’s civic infrastructure. WW uses its platform to elevate the work of others and build momentum for meaningful change—something FamilyCare also believes in deeply.
We know that healthcare isn’t just about access to a provider. It’s about access to justice, representation, and voice. That’s why we see Willamette Week as part of the same mission we’re on: to create a healthier, more informed, and more empowered Oregon.
Their work reinforces a shared belief: that everyone deserves to be seen and heard. Not just in the exam room, but in the public record. In a time when trust in institutions is eroding, Willamette Week helps rebuild that trust through transparency, consistency, and accountability.
Explore Willamette Week’s journalism and civic initiatives at wweek.com
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We learned valuable lessons running FamilyCare Health Plans for more than 30 years. Our proven track record shows that addressing the social, economic, and behavioral drivers of health improves outcomes while reducing costs. Now, as an independent non-profit, we're committed to sharing these insights and helping transform the healthcare system.
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