Partnership Between DSA/MID and Uplift Northwest ‘Gives So Many Opportunities’

SEATTLE (Nov. 26, 2024) — The Downtown Seattle Association/Metropolitan Improvement District partnered with Uplift Northwest, providing a unique opportunity for individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness to gain job training and employment while helping keep downtown Seattle clean and vibrant.

In mid-October, Uplift NW began sending about 10 workers each week to work alongside MID Clean Team ambassadors for four-hour weekday morning shifts.

Uplift NW, formerly known as the Millionair Club Charity, has been a key partner in providing job-readiness services and training for those in need. The nonprofit screens employees and conducts initial training, helping prepare them for employment. One goal of the partnership is to convert some of those from Uplift NW to full-time MID ambassadors.

There are currently 150-plus MID ambassadors between its three teams: Clean, Community Safety & Hospitality and Public Realm Operations. The Clean Team collected 91,811 gallons of trash from downtown sidewalks, curbs and alleys in September, bringing the 2024 total to 938,723 gallons, according to DSA data.

“We need additional help with cleaning, and these individuals need part-time employment and job training. It’s a win-win,” DSA Vice President of Public Realm and Ambassador Operations Jennifer Casillas said.

Years ago, while living on the streets of downtown Seattle, Tyler Smith would occasionally play Ping-Pong with MID ambassadors at Westlake Park. Now, he’s helping clean that same park with the MID.

Smith is one of several workers from Uplift NW who have applied for a full-time MID position. The former lineworker from the St. Louis area said Seattle boasts the cleanest downtown he’s seen, noting the “drastic improvement” even within the past year. “And that’s because of the ambassadors,” Smith said.

“Even though it’s not the most glamorous work, it’s a chance to be part of something positive,” Smith added. “It’s about giving people a shot, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.”

Uplift NW CEO and DSA board member Gina Hall emphasized the impact of the collaboration between the nonprofits.

“Serving on the DSA Board allows me to champion the mission of building a vibrant and inclusive downtown Seattle while bringing perspectives from Uplift Northwest’s work in breaking cycles of poverty and fostering equitable employment opportunities,” Hall said. “Together, we strive to create a healthier, thriving community for everyone.”

Click here for more information about the partnership.

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About the Downtown Seattle Association

Established in 1958, the Downtown Seattle Association is a nonprofit membership organization whose mission is to create a healthy, vibrant downtown for all. By advocating on issues including transportation, economic development and the urban experience, DSA works to ensure that downtown remains a great place to live, work, shop and play for all. DSA also manages the Metropolitan Improvement District, a business-improvement area spanning 300 square blocks downtown.