Ethnic Support council
About us
THE ETHNIC SUPPORT COUNCIL
Building Connection Through Access, Understanding, and Community Support
The Ethnic Support Council helps remove language and cultural barriers through bilingual advocacy, interpretation, and trusted community partnerships.
For more than three decades, we've worked alongside individuals, families, volunteers, and community partners to build a stronger, more connected community.
values
What guides our work
Community First
We listen to our neighbors and respond to the needs of our community.
Belonging
When neighbors are welcomed, communities thrive.
Language Access
Clear communication opens doors to healthcare, education, employment, and opportunity.
Our story
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY SINCE 1989
Founded in the late 1980's to serve Vietnamese and Camodian refugees, ESC relied on dedicated community volunteers and board members to help in whatever ways were needed. Our longest paid employee started as a volunteer, serving community members from her home.
While our programs have evolved over the years, our purpose has remained the same: helping people access the support they need and creating a community where everyone can belong.
Meet our board
Cindy Lopez Werth
PRESIDENT
TINA SMITH
SECRETARY
DAVID VASQUEZ
TREASURER
OLIVIA LOVELY
CARLOS MENDOZA
service area
serving our region
We proudly serve immigrant and refugees neighbors, community partners, agencies, nonprofits, and businesses across Cowlitz County, including Longview, Kelso, Woodland, and Kalama, and extend support into neighboring Lewis and Clark counties
We also travel to partner locations and, when needed, provide services in the Portland area.
