November 15, 2024 9:38 AM
Amazon and the Gary Sinise Foundation team up to support Washington state first responders
In honor of National First Responders Day, observed on October 28th, Amazon once again joined forces with the Gary Sinise Foundation (GSF)—a leader in supporting first responders, veterans, and their families—to celebrate and support those who put their lives on the line for their communities.
Amazon and GSF donated more than $200,000 in new equipment to fire departments across Washington state. This equipment is enhancing first responders’ ability to perform their lifesaving work safely and effectively.
Amazon and GSF visited local fire departments to present the grants and serve meals to first responder teams as a small token of gratitude. Spokane County Fire District 10, Franklin County Fire District 3, Everett Fire Department and West Pierce Fire & Rescue were all chosen as this partnership prioritizes under-resourced fire departments with larger numbers of volunteer firefighters. The fire departments used the grants to purchase fire safety equipment, such as educational inflatables, bail out kits and extrication equipment, critical for enabling firefighters to quickly escape compromised structures and remove individuals from trapped vehicles or buildings.
“Through our incredible three-year partnership, Amazon has displayed immense compassion for our mission and a commitment to delivering direct, meaningful impact to the heroes of our communities—the first responders who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe,” said Chrissy Kreisel, senior director of corporate and foundation relations at the Gary Sinise Foundation.
GSF was established in 2011 under the philanthropic direction of award-winning actor and humanitarian Gary Sinise, who has been a staunch supporter of veterans, first responders and defenders for more than 40 years. From providing equipment to hosting events like GSF’s healing retreats for families of fallen military and first responder heroes, Amazon is proud to be able to make a tangible difference.
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November 12, 2024 6:00 AM
Community Impact Report: Amazon showcases commitment to Puget Sound Region
Students studying Amazon-supported computer science courses to prepare for the jobs of the future.At Amazon, we live our mission of making our customers’ lives better and easier every day. We also bring this innovative, inventive spirit to empower the communities we call home, using our scale and abilities to take on some of society’s most pressing challenges. Working side-by-side with community partners, we’re increasing access to affordable housing and alleviating hunger. We’re strengthening education, promoting literacy, and helping people gain skills for the future.
Our most recent Community Impact Report showcases the progress we’re making and the positive impact we believe we’re having on everyday life for our Puget Sound neighbors. Highlights include:
- We contributed $68 million last year in support of more than 120 community partners dedicated to making the Puget Sound region a better place to live. Through initiatives large and small, our partners’ work has an indelible impact—increasing access to cultural events, providing free gifts for the holiday season, supporting a free electric shuttle service, and addressing the needs of people experiencing homelessness.
- Since launching the Amazon Housing Equity Fund in 2021, we have committed over $780 million to help create or preserve affordable housing for more than 18,900 low- to moderate-income individuals so they can live in the communities they serve and love. This is especially important for first responders, teachers, nurses, and service industry employees who are getting priced out of expensive metro areas like ours.
- We’ve donated more than 8 million meals to local organizations like Food Lifeline, FareStart, and Ballard Food Bank, helping them address food insecurity and hunger across the region. And we have used our logistics network to deliver more than 2 million meals to families, making it easier for them to access the food they need.
- We continue to invest in programs to help children in grades K-12, higher-education students, and adult learners unlock their potential. By focusing on critical digital skills, we prepare these individuals for the jobs of the future. Through Amazon Future Engineer we delivered 146,000 student hours of STEM education, literacy, and career exploration courses across the Puget Sound. And over 58,000 learners have accessed free training and education at the AWS Skills Center in Seattle.
These are just a few of the ways that we are giving back to the region that we call home. We are committed to supporting and collaborating with our neighbors and communities throughout the Puget Sound Region. We know that—working together—we can build an even brighter future.
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October 29, 2024 10:21 AM
Amazon celebrates the opening of Overlook Walk and Revitalization of Seattle’s Waterfront Park
Earlier this month, Amazon team members joined City of Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, the Office of the Waterfront, and other community leaders to celebrate the much-anticipated opening of Seattle’s new Overlook Walk.
Located where the Alaskan Way Viaduct once stood, Overlook Walk creates the first ever pedestrian connection between Seattle’s downtown and waterfront—bridging a nearly 100-foot gap between Pike Place Market and the Waterfront Park Promenade adjacent to Elliott Bay. Visitors and residents will enjoy ample seating, stunning views, a new children’s play area, as well as landscaping that reflects the cultural heritage and natural environment of the Pacific Northwest.
“Seattle’s latest iconic urban element, Overlook Walk, is joining the roster of recognizable, dynamic Seattle landmarks—as a symbol of our city’s identity,” said Mayor Harrell during the opening ceremony.
As part of Amazon’s continued commitment to invest in the community for its neighbors across the Puget Sound region, the company provided $7 million in funding to the revitalization of Seattle’s Waterfront Park.
"Amazon is thrilled to have played a part in bringing Overlook Walk to life, which shows our dedication to building a more accessible and connected community," said David Zapolsky, Senior Vice President of Global Public Policy and General Counsel at Amazon. "This new pathway seamlessly connects downtown, Pike Place Market, and the waterfront, celebrating Seattle’s innovative spirit, natural beauty, and the power of collaboration."
Overlook Walk marks the near completion of a decades-long Waterfront Park effort, to fully open to the public in 2025.
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October 17, 2024 1:38 PM
Amazon signs agreement to bring new nuclear energy to Washington
As the energy needs of our business and customers continue to grow, we’re continuing to invest in renewables while also finding additional sources of carbon-free energy that can both help power our operations and bring new sources of energy to the grid. Nuclear power is one part of that mix—it can be brought online at scale, and has a decades-long record of providing a reliable source of safe carbon-free energy for communities around the world.
We recently announced that we’ve signed several agreements to support the development of nuclear energy projects—including enabling the construction of several new Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). SMRs are an advanced kind of nuclear reactor with a smaller physical footprint, allowing them to be built closer to the grid. They also have faster build times than traditional reactors, allowing them to come online sooner.
A model of a small modular reactor designed by X-energy.In Washington, our agreement with Energy Northwest, a consortium of state public utilities, will enable the development of four advanced SMRs. The reactors will be constructed, owned and operated by Energy Northwest, and are expected to generate roughly 320 megawatts (MW) of capacity for the first phase of the project, with the option to increase to 960 MW total—enough to power the equivalent of more than 770,000 U.S. homes. These projects will help meet the forecasted energy needs of the Pacific Northwest beginning in the early 2030s and is expected to support up to 1,000 temporary construction jobs and as many as 100+ permanent jobs once fully operational, according to Energy Northwest.
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October 4, 2024 1:12 PM
Amazon is hiring 5,000 people across Washington as it heads into the holiday season
As the 2024 holiday shopping season approaches, Amazon announced that it’s hiring for 250,000 full-time, part-time, and seasonal roles across the U.S., including 5,000 positions in Washington, including 4,000 in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue region.
Seasonal Amazon jobs offer competitive pay, flexible schedules, and the opportunity to be part of the bustling retail industry during its busiest time of year. Many of these seasonal roles also come with the potential to transition into regular, full-time employment after the holidays. All seasonal employees earn at least $18 per hour and have access to benefits like health care from the first day on the job.
We’re also looking forward to welcoming back many familiar faces—each season we see many individuals come back year after year to be a part of the holiday season here at Amazon. In fact, nearly one-third of people who have come to work at Amazon as a holiday hire return. Whatever someone’s personal circumstances may be, Amazon has an opportunity for them.
A great example of an employee who found a long-term career at Amazon is Liv Uribe, currently based out of Washington state. She started in a seasonal role at the PHX5 fulfillment center in 2011 and, after nine promotions, is now a Senior Regional Human Recourses Manager. “The seasonal position allowed me to get my foot in the door at Amazon,” said Liv. “I loved the company and the people I worked with, and saw the opportunities to grow, so I pursued a full-time role after that first holiday season."
Last month we also announced our largest annual wage increase ever for our hourly associates. Members of our front-line team will be received at least an additional $1.50 per hour starting September 29, which brings their average base wage to more than $23 per hour in Washington, and more than $30 in total compensation including elected benefits.
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October 3, 2024 10:00 PM
Amazon expands partnerships with Puget Sound food banks to deliver groceries to neighbors in need
Every Monday, Amazon Flex drivers arrive at West Seattle Food Bank to pick up boxes of healthy food to deliver them to families and individuals in need, for free. In partnership with local nonprofit United Way of King County (UWKC), and building on their existing delivery program with West Seattle Food Bank, Amazon recently expanded our Community Delivery program to support food banks in the University District, Auburn, Covington, and Kent. People who receive these deliveries have signed up through the Home Grocery Delivery Program facilitated by UWKC, which partners with Amazon and local food banks to donate and deliver vital groceries right to their doorstep.
“Amazon makes it possible to think about this program long-term,” said Sara Seelmeyer, food security program manager, UWKC. “The home delivery program began during the pandemic and continues because it has proven to be invaluable in serving those most at-risk in our community, but it is not sustainable without Amazon's support. Currently, Amazon donates this service for roughly 900 deliveries per week.”
Amazon believes everyone should have access to healthy food and is addressing hunger with local partners by tapping into the company’s technology and delivery network where access to food can be a struggle. So far, Amazon’s Community Delivery program has delivered over 1.8 million meals to more than 4,000 families across Puget Sound.
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October 3, 2024 11:51 AM
Amazon Sponsors Return of the Night Market to Seattle’s Chinatown-International District
The annual Night Market in Seattle's historic Chinatown-International District returned on Saturday, September 21st, following Amazon's $250,000 commitment to bring the food and culture street festival back for the next three years. As part of the diverse fabric that makes up the Puget Sound community, Amazon was proud to help bring back this unique local event.
Hosted by the Chinatown-International District Business Improvement Area (CIDBIA), the 2024 Night Market was a lively celebration of culture, food, and community, drawing over 30,000 visitors from across the region and providing a boost in foot traffic to the district. More than 100 vendors participated, with a mix of traditional and modern food and beverage offerings, as well as local artisans selling handmade goods. Attendees also enjoyed live music, dancing, martial arts demonstrations, and other cultural performances throughout the evening.
In celebration of the market’s return, and as part of its commitment to addressing food insecurity, Amazon partnered with Uwajimaya grocery stores to donate 75,000 pounds of food to local food banks. Amazon will contribute 50,000 pounds of food to organizations including Asian Counseling and Referral Services (ACRS) and Hopelink. Uwajimaya has launched an in-store donation campaign to fund the additional 25,000 pounds of food.
“At Uwajimaya, we’ve been a proud part of this community since 1928, and we believe in the strength of community and the importance of giving back,” said Denise Moriguchi, President and CEO of Uwajimaya. “Partnering with Amazon on this food drive allows us to leverage our shared commitment to supporting local families, especially during the back-to-school season when the need for nutritious meals is crucial. By working together, we’re able to make a lasting impact, both by providing essential resources and by strengthening the cultural fabric of the neighborhoods we’ve served for nearly a century.”
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September 13, 2024 2:30 PM
Amazon teams up to clean Seattle’s parks: 300 volunteers make an impact
On September 7, more than 300 Amazon employees and their families participated in Amazon's fourth Parks Cleanup in partnership with Seattle Parks Foundation and Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR). Volunteers at Green Lake Park, Meadowbrook Park, Seward Park, and Genesee Park/Playfield spread 110 yards of mulch, fertilized 80 trees, removed 900 square feet of invasive weeds, and cleaned up litter from 300 feet of shoreline.
At Seward Park, Amazon’s Vice President of Sustainability, Kara Hurst, joined the cleanup alongside AP Diaz, Superintendent of Seattle Parks and Recreation, and Kristen Milliron, COO of Seattle Parks Foundation. Together, they highlighted the importance of maintaining green spaces for the community.
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September 11, 2024 1:20 PM
Amazon and Bumbershoot partnership surpasses food donation goal
Over Labor Day weekend, more than 30,000 fans gathered at Seattle Center for the annual Bumbershoot Arts & Music Festival. The event brought people together to enjoy and experience an eclectic mix of music, multimedia art, dance, performances, and food from 29 local restaurants.
As part of this year’s festival, Amazon teamed up with Bumbershoot for "Bumbershoot Gives Back: Powered by Amazon," a community-driven initiative aimed to address food insecurity in the region. Together, we surpassed our goal of donating 90,000 pounds of food, ultimately providing 127,000 pounds to food banks across the Puget Sound. Additionally, Conscious Alliance, a nonprofit hunger relief organization, organized a virtual food drive where supporters received a limited-edition Bumbershoot poster in exchange for donations that provided meals toward the program.
Throughout the summer, Bumbershoot and Amazon mobilized more than 2,000 volunteers who contributed more than 10,000 hours of service to 15 local organizations, including food banks and community gardens. These volunteers dedicated time to combat food insecurity by delivering groceries, sorting food, and harvesting gardens, earning free two-day festival tickets for their efforts.
Amazon takes a hands-on approach to address key issues like hunger in the communities in which we live and work. By investing in and collaborating with community partners, we’re providing a direct and positive impact on the lives of those in need.
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September 10, 2024 9:00 AM
Amazon joins the fun at the 18th annual SLU Block Party
Last month, 6,500 people came out to enjoy the fun and festivities at the 18th annual South Lake Union (SLU) Block Party, coming together to support local businesses and community organizations in celebration of the neighborhood’s culture and history.
This year’s SLU Block Party was a lively affair, with 34 community booths, seven food trucks, and a variety of activities, showcasing what makes SLU special. From the energetic performances by Pacific Northwest artists Little Lies, Thief Motif, and Nite Wave, to a yoga session led by Core Power Yoga, there was something for everyone. Guests of all ages also participated in the “Street Scramble” neighborhood scavenger hunt and played lawn games.
Amazon’s role in the SLU Block Party goes beyond sponsorship. We’re proud to support the diverse mix of businesses, nonprofits, and community-based organizations that call SLU home. This year, several of our own retail tenants, including the Gage Academy of Arts—a nonprofit art school that recently relocated to Amazon’s SLU campus—Kathmandu, and Bright Horizons, joined in the festivities. The Block Party provided these and other local businesses with an opportunity to further connect with the community and strengthen the neighborhood’s ties.
“Our mission has always been to create vibrant, 18-hour districts that benefit both Amazonians and the surrounding neighborhood,” said Shannon Loew, vice president of Global Real Estate & Facilities, Amazon. “The SLU Block Party is a perfect example of how we bring this mission to life, fostering a lively and connected community that supports a diverse mix of businesses, arts, and cultural organizations.”
Amazon remains committed to supporting the people and organizations that make the Puget Sound region a dynamic place to live and work. Events like the Block Party remind us that our greatest achievements come from working together, building connections, and creating spaces where everyone feels welcome.
We’re already looking forward to next year’s Block Party and can’t wait to see how the community continues to thrive.
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August 27, 2024 5:00 AM
Amazon Fresh cultivates healthy eating habits and educational opportunities across the Puget Sound
Amazon Fresh has teamed up with Whole Foods Market Foundation by donating $250,000 to fund 83 school gardens across the country, including local schools across the Puget Sound region. This initiative aligns with Amazon Fresh's long-term vision of positively impacting local communities by promoting access to healthy food choices and educational initiatives.
Among the beneficiaries are Halilits Elementary on Bainbridge Island, Morningside Academy, Graham Hill Elementary School, and Technology Access Foundation in Seattle, as well as Wildwood Elementary in Federal Way and Hazelwood Elementary School in Newcastle. These schools will receive Whole Kids Garden Grants provided by Amazon Fresh, enabling them to establish or enhance their edible gardens and engage students in hands-on learning about growing and enjoying fresh produce.
"We're thrilled to support these local schools and their efforts to cultivate a love for nutritious foods among students," said Stockton Young, regional manager for Amazon Fresh in the Puget Sound region. "By providing access to edible gardens, we aim to inspire a new generation of kids to develop an understanding of where their food comes from."
"When kids have a hand in growing fruits and vegetables, they are more likely to try them, enjoy them, and inspire other kids to do the same. Additionally, kids who grow up enjoying fruits and vegetables are more likely to continue eating them through adulthood," said Carol Medeiros, executive director of Whole Foods Market Foundation. "We’re so grateful to Amazon Fresh whose generous donation in the Whole Kids Garden Grant program this year will allow more students to get a jumpstart on a lifetime of enjoying healthy food."
Through this collaboration, Amazon Fresh reinforces its commitment to investing in the well-being of local communities. By nurturing a love for fresh produce and sustainable practices from an early age, the company hopes to inspire positive change and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
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August 20, 2024 4:04 PM
First newly-constructed affordable housing community to receive Amazon funding in King County opens
Since the Amazon Housing Equity Fund (HEF) launched in January 2021, we’ve dedicated $3.6 billion to help fund more than 35,000 affordable homes across the Puget Sound region, the Arlington, Virginia/D.C. region, and Nashville, Tennessee. Today, Amazon celebrated the opening of Grata at Totem Lake―the first newly-constructed affordable housing community to receive HEF funding in King County.
Left to right: Allen Dauterman,TWG Development; Alice Shobe, global director, Amazon Community Impact; Rep. Larry Springer, Washington State Legislature; Councilmember Amy Falcone, City of Kirkland; Susie Levy, A Regional Coalition for Housing (ARCH); Megan Adams, TWG DevelopmentThere is a great need for more affordable housing across the Puget Sound―this is especially true on the east side of Lake Washington. Grata at Totem Lake will help address this need with 125 units, ranging from studios to 4-bedroom apartments, for residents earing less than 60% of the county’s area median income (AMI), and with 88 of these homes reserved for residents earning under 50% AMI.
Grata at Totem Lake will also contribute to residents’ quality of life by providing easy access to nearby transit, groceries and retail, healthcare, schools and other resources. The building is also energy-efficient and includes rooftop solar arrays, green-rated appliances in each unit, a design that reduces energy usage, and EV-charging stations.
Grata at Totem Lake, Kirkland, Washington
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TWG Development led the development of Grata at Totem Lake, which received a $12.5 million low-rate loan from the HEF, along with funding from A Regional Coalition for Housing (ARCH), the Washington State Housing Finance Commission, and Key Bank. This new development illustrates what can happen when the private sector, public sector, and community-based organizations collaborate to address the need for more affordable housing.
Of the $3.6 billion that Amazon has dedicated to help create or preserve affordable housing through Housing Equity Fund, $2.2 billion has been committed to help create or preserve more than 21,000 affordable homes so far, including over $780 million to help create or preserve more than 8,600 affordable homes across the Puget Sound. Over 80% of the affordable housing developments funded by Amazon have been in partnership with local, state, and federal government, and we plan to build on these partnerships to help create more communities like Grata at Totem Lake. Learn more about Amazon's Housing Equity Fund and what Amazon is doing in the Puget Sound region for our employees, neighbors, and the community.
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July 11, 2024 4:00 PM
Amazon teams with Bumbershoot to provide free tickets while fighting hunger
As the community gears up for the Bumbershoot arts and music festival later this summer, Amazon has partnered with Bumbershoot on the “Bumbershoot Gives Back” initiative, an effort to support food security for our neighbors in the region. The collaboration will deliver 90,000 pounds of food to food banks in the region, while providing fans with meaningful ways to serve the community and opportunities to receive Bumbershoot festival tickets in the process. To kick off the program, Amazon donated 30,000 pounds of food to the Asian Counseling & Referral Services’ (ACRS) food bank in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District. Amazon volunteers helped unload the donated food that will support ACRS’ food security programs across the Puget Sound.
Amazon and Bumbershoot volunteers at the launch of Bumbershoot Gives Back.To encourage community participation, Amazon’s support will make 2,000 two-day festival tickets available for free to those who volunteer their time with select local nonprofits tackling food insecurity across the Puget Sound. There will also be limited-edition posters available for sale, with each purchase providing 80 meals to contribute to the program.
The collaboration is part of a larger effort to address the issue of food insecurity in Western Washington, which impacts over 1.5 million of our neighbors.
“We’re proud of our investments across Seattle and the Puget Sound region over the last 30 years, and as we continue to grow, so does our responsibility to the places where we live and work,” said David Zapolsky, Senior Vice President, Global Public Policy and General Counsel for Amazon. “Amazon is committed to working with our partners to find creative solutions that empower our community. This year, we’re excited to be working with an iconic local institution like Bumbershoot to have our sponsorship support critical needs in the region. Through this work, our impact will result in thousands of volunteers mobilizing across the Puget Sound while we infuse local food banks with 90,000 pounds of food.”
Amazon volunteers unload an Amazon delivery truck full of food donations as part of Bumbershoot Gives Back.Amazon’s work to tackle food insecurity nationwide has resulted in more than 88 million pounds of food donated to food banks, pantries, kitchens, and shelters in the U.S. since 2021, with more than seven million pounds donated within Washington state. In addition, more than $2.9 million has been donated to local organizations to support individuals and families experiencing food insecurity since 2021 in the Puget Sound.
Bumbershoot will return to Seattle Center this Labor Day Weekend. Learn more about Bumbershoot and how to sign up for a volunteer opportunity at a community-based organization.
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July 5, 2024 6:20 AM
Amazon celebrates Seafair and military veterans
This year marks the 75th anniversary of Seafair, the biggest summer celebration in the Pacific Northwest. Amazon is honored to sponsor the annual Fourth of July fireworks at Gas Works Park for the fourth year in a row.
The fireworks are both a beloved local family tradition, as well as an opportunity for our Puget Sound community to honor veterans while celebrating the contributions and sacrifices of military families everywhere. This milestone 75th anniversary event coincides with Amazon’s celebration of surpassing our goal to hire 100,000 veterans and military spouses this year. In support of veterans and their families, Amazon offers a broad range of programs built to address challenges specific to our military community, including Warriors@, an affinity group that helps smooth the transition to civilian careers.
Whether joining as an hourly or a salaried employee, employees also receive comprehensive benefits, including health care from Day 1 on the job and a wide range of career growth and training programs.
David Zapolsky, Amazon’s senior vice president of Global Public Policy and General Counsel, sat down with Seattle’s New Day Northwest morning show to share why Amazon’s employment opportunities and alignment of skills represent a great workplace for veterans.
Also joining Zapolsky and host Amity Addrisi was Ansel Doub, a Navy veteran and Amazon site leader who has been with Amazon for nearly 12 years. Doub shared how he’s benefitted from mentorship and being welcomed by the military community within Amazon—as well as how this represents a full circle moment for him, as he participated in Seafair while on a Naval ship back in 2004.
Following a full day of July Fourth fun at Gas Works Park and the South Lake Union viewing areas, Amazon’s own Alexa also joined the festivities this year, with hosts calling on Alexa to start the fireworks during the live televised broadcast.
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June 11, 2024 2:25 PM
Amazon adds $1.4 billion to the Housing Equity Fund to create and preserve more affordable homes in the Puget Sound
We’re now extending our commitment to the Amazon Housing Equity Fund with an additional $1.4 billion in funding to create and preserve 14,000 more homes in three of its hometown communities—Washington State's Puget Sound region; the Arlington, Virginia/National Capital region; and Nashville, Tennessee. This brings the total to more than $3.6 billion to fund more than 35,000 affordable homes across these three regions. The extension of the Housing Equity Fund underscores our commitment to affordable housing and to helping thousands of families live closer to where they work or near transportation hubs, removing a major barrier to success. To date, Amazon's Housing Equity Fund has funded a total of 8,600+ homes across the Puget Sound region and increased affordable housing stock by 30% in Bellevue, WA.
Learn more about this extension of the Housing Equity Fund and how the Amazon Housing Equity Fund is helping create affordable housing across communities that Amazon calls home.
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May 31, 2024 3:00 PM
Amazon volunteers join in with "Keep Bellevue Beautiful" initiative
Last week, Amazon employees participated in the City of Bellevue’s "Keep Bellevue Beautiful" volunteer event. In collaboration with the City of Bellevue, 100 Amazonians took to the streets for a massive trash pickup effort. Volunteers worked diligently to clean up and beautify various areas around downtown. This effort is a testament to our dedication to fostering safe, clean, and vibrant communities.
"Amazon’s involvement sets a high standard for corporate social responsibility,” said Mayor Lynne Robinson of Bellevue. “We are grateful for their continued support and dedication to our city. Their efforts during this event not only enhance the beauty of Bellevue, but also strengthen the bonds within our community."
Amazon has been a key player in the "Keep Bellevue Beautiful" program since its launch in August 2023, standing out as the only large-scale corporate participant to date. This involvement underscores our role as a leading community partner, committed to making a positive difference in the places where our employees live and work.
"We are proud to be a part of the ‘Keep Bellevue Beautiful’ initiative,” said Luli Chaluleu, vice president of Talent Acquisition for Worldwide Amazon Stores. “Our volunteers' hard work reflects Amazon’s core values of community engagement and environmental responsibility. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the City of Bellevue to create a better future for everyone."
“Keep Bellevue Beautiful,” was just one event during Amazon’s Global Month of Volunteering, a company-wide initiative to engage in volunteering across our many global communities, demonstrating the company's strong commitment to community involvement and environmental stewardship. Amazon is dedicated to supporting local community causes. Since 2021, we have donated over $244 million to local charities and nonprofit organizations, establishing ourselves as the region's largest corporate contributor. Additionally, through the Amazon Housing Equity Fund, we have invested $720 million to preserve and create over 8,000 affordable homes across the Puget Sound region.
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May 21, 2024 3:34 PM
Amazon volunteers come out for One Seattle Day of Service
On Saturday, May 18th, Amazon partnered with the City of Seattle and the Alliance for Pioneer Square to kick off the third annual One Seattle Day of Service. Mayor Bruce Harrell welcomed an enthusiastic crowd of volunteers and set the tone for a day dedicated to giving back. Joining Mayor Harrell were local leaders, including Amazon’s David Zapolsky, Senior Vice President of Global Public Policy and General Counsel.
David Zapolsky (second to right), Amazon’s Head of Public Policy and General Counsel, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell (third to right), and other local leaders, policymakers, and Amazon volunteers at the One Day of Service kickoff event.Photo by Kari Quaas“Amazon has been part of this community for over 30 years,” Zapolsky said. “We are dedicated to addressing some of the city and region’s most pressing issues, and today’s efforts are a testament to what we can achieve when we work together.”
After the kickoff, more than 150 Amazon team volunteers dispersed across the Chinatown-International District and Pioneer Square for the Alliance’s 14th Annual Spring Clean, engaging in projects such as trash cleanup, weeding, mulching, and planting. Their efforts helped to beautify these dynamic neighborhoods while fostering a sense of community among residents and the neighborhood’s small business owners.
“From individuals in the community to folks at companies like Amazon, One Seattle Day of Service is about us all coming together to make our city a better place for everyone,” said Mayor Harrell. “Amazon’s continued support and positive impact on our community over the years have been invaluable. Their commitment, alongside the dedication of all the volunteers, is making a tangible difference in our communities.”
David Zapolsky (left), Amazon’s Head of Public Policy and General Counsel, and Shannon Loew (right), Vice President of Global Real Estate & Facilities, joined Amazon volunteers and rolled up their sleeves to plant flowers, pull weeds, and spread mulch in Pioneer Square in support of the neighborhood's annual Spring Clean.Photo by Kari QuaasThe day concluded with a free concert hosted by Amazon in Occidental Square, featuring local bands Cherry Ferrari and Long Dark Moon. The concert was a perfect way to show our appreciation to all of the volunteers who participated, celebrate the day’s accomplishments, and reinforce the community spirit that drives events like the One Seattle Day of Service.
The One Seattle Day of Service is just one highlight of Amazon’s company-wide Global Month of Volunteering. Throughout the month, Amazon employees are engaging in various initiatives, including volunteering at community gardens and food pantries, packing sustainable hygiene kits to meet the immediate needs of families, and participating in literacy initiatives to help eliminate barriers to learning for students. These efforts reflect our broader commitment to making a positive impact in the communities where we live and work each year. In partnership with local organizations, we're providing immediate support to address the region's most pressing challenges—from addressing hunger to creating affordable housing—while also investing in long-term, sustainable solutions. We’ve donated over 7 million pounds of food across Washington state to address hunger, provided over $720 million to create and preserve over 8,000 affordable homes across the region, and donated over $244 million to local nonprofits and charitable causes.
We are proud of the contributions made by our volunteers and the partnerships that make these events possible. While there’s more work ahead, Amazon remains committed to fostering strong, vibrant communities through ongoing collaboration, engagement, and support.
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May 10, 2024 10:13 AM
Amazon, named amongst the region's top corporate philanthropists, is tackling the most pressing community issues such as housing affordability and hunger
Amazon was recognized by the Puget Sound Business Journal for a third year in a row. The company’s $244M community investment over the past three years—$68 million in 2023—is creating measurable and positive impacts across the region.
According to the Building Industry Association of Washington, 84% of families in Washington state cannot afford to buy a home. Low- and middle-income households are disproportionately affected as they often struggle to afford basic necessities because housing costs consume more than 30% of their monthly income. At the same time, according to Food Lifeline, the region saw a 63% increase in visits to local food banks in 2023.
Alongside our local partners, Amazon is providing immediate support to address the region’s most pressing issues, while investing in long-term solutions that can be sustained over time. For example, a partnership with Mary’s Place provided more than 160,000 bed nights at the organization’s shelter inside Amazon’s Seattle headquarters to families experiencing homelessness. Amazon’s Housing Equity Fund (HEF) was started to preserve existing, and create newer, affordable homes near modes of transit, schools, and health care facilities. HEF has already helped fund more than 8,000 affordable homes and supported over 17,000 low-to-moderate-income residents.
Amazon is also using its unique logistics capabilities to reduce hunger. In 2023, Amazon delivered more than 500,000 pounds of food to nonprofits in the Puget Sound region, and has donated more than 7 million pounds of food to food banks, pantries, kitchens, and shelters across Washington state since 2021.
While we are thankful to our partners for the progress we’ve made together in our hometown, there is more work to be done. Amazon will continue to invest in issues that matter most to our neighbors, and collaborate with local organizations, to ensure an even brighter, more equitable tomorrow.
Learn more about the ways Amazon is increasing access to housing, food, and education across the Puget Sound region in our 2023 Community Impact Report.
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April 27, 2024 9:00 AM
Amazon celebrates opening of new 2 Line light rail line with Bellevue leaders
Over the past few years, Amazon has continued to share news of our investments and growth across Puget Sound headquarters. Amazon continues to make progress towards our commitment to bring 25,000 jobs to Bellevue, and we’ve opened several new offices across the area, from Sonic and Dynamo in Bellevue, to Silverstone in Redmond. We also know that while jobs and workspaces are important, Amazon is equally as committed to ensuring our growth is sustainable and that we’re investing in the right infrastructure to support our hiring. As a result of this work, we’re excited to celebrate the opening of the East Link Extension, officially known as the 2 Line, that will serve eight new stations from South Bellevue to Redmond, further connecting cities and neighborhoods across the Eastside.
“Our downtown Bellevue campus was designed around the connectivity that mass transit provides, both for the community and the businesses that are growing here," said David Zapolsky, senior vice president, Global Public Policy and General Counsel at Amazon. “Not only will this investment provide easier access to downtown Bellevue for our 12,000 Amazon employees in the city, but as we continue to invest in affordable housing with access to nearby public transit through the Amazon Housing Equity Fund, the 2 Line will also begin to open up new opportunities for the broader community.”
As part of the 2 Line opening and Amazon’s hands-on approach to supporting mass transit, we will provide up to 15,000 pre-loaded ORCA cards to members of the community to promote ridership and support increased public transit access for the community.
Our commitment to Bellevue goes beyond the jobs we create, the investment we bring, and the infrastructure we support. Amazon continues to work closely with the community and its leaders to ensure that we’re helping to address the issues that matter most to them. This includes contributing over $270 million to create and preserve 1,700 affordable homes on the Eastside through Amazon’s Housing Equity Fund; donating nearly $3 million to Bellevue LifeSpring through the Right Now Needs Fund to help address students’ basic and immediate needs like food, shelter, clothing, and school supplies so students arrive at school prepared to learn; and direct funding and support to over 100 non-profits on the Eastside.
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April 19, 2024 9:43 AM
Amazon funds the revitalization of Seattle local beach park
A ribbon cutting ceremony marked the re-opening of Be'er Sheva Park.Photo by Suzi PrattAmazon celebrated the grand re-opening of Seattle’s Be'er Sheva Park on Saturday, April 13, 2024. The park has undergone significant renovations, and Amazon is proud to provide support to close the funding gap needed to complete the project.
“Amazon’s generous, transformational support helped the Rainier Beach community bring the vision for this project to fruition,” said Rebecca Bear, president and CEO, Seattle Parks Foundation. “Be’er Sheva Park now has beach access, restored salmon habitat, a cultural stage, and much needed picnic areas. The park now better reflects the needs of the neighborhood and will support a thriving community in Rainier Beach.”
Leaders from Seattle Parks Foundation, Seattle Parks and Recreation, and the Seattle City Council.Photo by Suzi PrattThe improvements, resulting from a public-private partnership led by Seattle Parks and Recreation, Rainier Beach Link2Lake, and the Seattle Parks Foundation, includes art installations, a boardwalk with lighted paths, and a stage for cultural performances, along with new access to the beach for members of the local community. Located in southeast Seattle, the 25.5-acre park on the shores of Lake Washington is the perfect place to visit on a summer day. With stunning views of the Cascade Mountains, it is a popular destination for picnics, family gatherings, yoga classes, and more.
“The Rainier Beach community is one of Seattle’s most dynamic and diverse neighborhoods. Amazon remains committed to providing solutions for causes that drive meaningful change for our neighbors across the Puget Sound region,” said Taylor Hoang, senior community engagement manager at Amazon. “The re-opening of this park brings the community access to native plants, artwork, walkways, and beach access just in time to enjoy this spring and summer.”
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April 12, 2024 8:00 AM
With support from Amazon, 445 homes are staying affordable in southeast Seattle
Amazon’s Housing Equity Fund is providing $11.8 million+ in below-market loans, grants to preserve these affordable homes for current and future residents.
Access to affordable housing is one of the greatest challenges facing low to moderate-income households, including residents in communities across the Puget Sound region where Amazon has a strong presence.
Preservation of existing affordable housing is one of the most effective ways to ensure affordability, as it helps keep people in their homes who might otherwise be priced out, and helps ensure homes that are affordable today stay affordable for the long-term.
In cities like Seattle, however, where the cost of residential real estate continues to climb, many naturally occurring affordable rental units (homes that have, historically, been affordable to renters) are at risk of being sold and converted to market-rate homes, putting them out of reach for current and future residents in need of affordable housing.
Claremont ApartmentsFor these reasons, The Amazon Housing Equity Fund (HEF) prioritizes efforts to preserve (and improve) existing affordable housing, making it possible for low to moderate-income residents to stay in their communities. Two existing affordable Seattle apartment communities, the Claremont and Lake Washington Apartments, have been kept affordable by SouthEast Effective Development (SEED), a local nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life in Southeast Seattle through housing, economic development and the arts. With $11.8 million in financial support from HEF, SEED was able to ensure these 445 homes stay affordable for the next 99 years.
“Southeast Seattle is facing some of the greatest displacement pressures in Washington State. The Claremont and Lake Washington Apartments will provide a critical resource for residents in need of quality, affordable housing. We’re thankful for Amazon’s support, which is helping us keep these homes affordable today and for future generations,” said Michael Seiwerath, Executive Director, SEED.
Lake Washington ApartmentsThe Claremont, located in Seattle’s Mt. Baker neighborhood, consists of 68 affordable homes for families earning between 50% to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Lake Washington Apartments, located in Seattle’s Rainier Beach neighborhood (and within walking distance of Lake Washington), consists of 377 affordable homes for families earning between 30% to 60% AMI. Both of these apartment communities are in highly desirable neighborhoods—close to mass transit, schools, employment centers, and other neighborhood amenities.
“When we keep existing homes affordable, we help foster greater equity across our communities,” said Senthil Sankaran, Managing Principal, Amazon Housing Equity Fund. “By preserving the affordability of the Claremont and Lake Washington Apartments, HEF and SEED are helping current and future residents have access to high-quality affordable homes and surrounding resources that contribute to a better quality of life.”
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April 4, 2024 7:45 AM
Continuing to expand our Puget Sound headquarters in Bellevue
Over the last few months we’ve shared some exciting updates about the expansion of our Puget Sound headquarters in Bellevue. In December, we announced that 1,000 employees moved into the first half of Sonic, also known as Tower 555. Then in February, we celebrated the opening of our next building, Dynamo, bringing an additional 1,500 employees to Bellevue, Washington. And today we’re excited to share that we are continuing construction on the remaining 22 floors at Sonic, bringing online an additional 500,000 square feet of collaborative workspace in Bellevue. Once complete later this year, Sonic will provide space for more than 4,500 employees total.
Employees can take in the view from the Sonic balcony.
"Amazon's continued investment in Bellevue is another show of confidence that our city is growing and open for business," said Joe Fain, president and CEO of the Bellevue Chamber. "Nearly 80% of polled residents shared that the growth that Amazon and other tech companies have brought to Bellevue has been good for the city. As the office market across the globe continues to show signs of post-pandemic strain, Bellevue is bucking the trend and breathing fresh life into its Downtown."
Our expansion to Bellevue is part of Amazon’s natural growth progression in our Puget Sound headquarters. Since we first announced the expansion in 2020, we’ve brought more than 12,000 jobs to the city and we remain committed to our long-term plans to bring 25,000 jobs here. Bellevue provides more space for us to create good jobs and offers a business-friendly community with great amenities, a high quality of life, and a fantastic talent pool.
In addition to investing in our Puget Sound headquarters, Amazon is also committed to supporting causes that are important to the local community. Since 2021, we’ve donated over $174 million to local charitable groups and nonprofit organizations, making us the region’s largest corporate giver. We also continue to invest in affordable housing initiatives through the Amazon Housing Equity Fund, which has contributed $670 million to preserve and create more than 7,200 affordable homes in the Puget Sound region.
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March 21, 2024 10:14 AM
Amazon's Housing Equity Fund announces $122 million commitment to help create or preserve more than 1,700 affordable homes across Puget Sound
A rendering of Atrium Court Apartments, an upcoming project in Seattle’s Othello neighborhood.Amazon announced today that since December 2023, the company’s Housing Equity Fund (HEF) has committed more than $122 million to help preserve and support the development of over 1,700 affordable homes in Seattle, Bellevue, and Kirkland.
“Since launching the Amazon Housing Equity Fund three years ago, we’ve moved quickly to support local organizations and developers to increase the supply of affordable housing—and we’ve seen the impact we can make,” said Alice Shobe, global director of Amazon Community Impact. “In Bellevue, for example, where we now employ more than 12,000 people, we’ve helped increase the number of affordable housing units by 20%.”
Today’s announcement includes partnerships with nine local organizations focused on affordable housing. These affordable homes are located near resources residents need (like transit, schools, and employment centers) and will serve individuals and families earning between 50% to 80% of the area median income. These communities include:
- Ardea at Totem Lake in Kirkland, is a new affordable housing community under development by TWG, and will include 170 new homes reserved for seniors.
- MLK Family Housing is a new mixed-use development under construction in Rainier Valley that will include 147 new affordable homes. This project is a partnership with The Low Income Housing Institute (LIHI).
- Altaire at Jackson Park in North Seattle, a partnership between SRM Development and the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, will provide 206 affordable homes less than a mile from the Shoreline South/148th Link light rail station.
- Crossroads Apartments is an adaptive reuse affordable housing community byGreat Expectations LLC. The project will transform the former Sagebrook Senior Living Center, a vacant assisted living facility, into 108 affordable homes in Bellevue.
- The Terrapin Apartments is being developed by Johnson & Carr and will provide 155 new affordable homes within a half-mile of the new Bellevue Downtown Link light rail station.
- Atrium Court Apartments will include 201 affordable homes, and Trace 4001 will include 191 affordable homes. Both projects are in Seattle’s Othello neighborhood, are close to the Othello light rail station, and are being developed by Nitze-Stagen.
- Bode Greenwood, a development in Seattle’s Greenwood neighborhood by Bode Affordable Living, will consist of 117 new affordable homes for individuals.
- The Claremont Apartments is an existing affordable housing community in Seattle’s Mt. Baker neighborhood and includes 68 affordable homes. The Lake Washington Apartments is an existing affordable housing community in Seattle’s Seward Park neighborhood, and includes 377 affordable homes. Amazon’s support will enable local nonprofit SouthEast Effective Development (SEED Seattle) to keep both of these apartment communities affordable for 99 years.
Since its launch in 2021, HEF has helped to significantly increase multifamily affordable housing throughout the region. Today’s announcement brings Amazon’s affordable housing commitments across the Puget Sound to a total of $670 million to help make over 7,200 homes available to more than 15,500 residents. Learn more about the Amazon Housing Equity Fund.
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March 18, 2024 6:15 AM
Amazon volunteers support Seattle/King County Clinic—providing free medical care to patients in need
Photo by Auston JamesFor the third consecutive year, the Amazon team was proud to support the 2024 Seattle/King County Clinic through sponsorship and team volunteer efforts. As the largest volunteer-driven health clinic in Washington State, the Seattle/King County Clinic offers free healthcare services to thousands of people in our community who need it most.
"Every person deserves access to quality healthcare, and the Seattle/King County Clinic is doing vital work to address health disparities by ensuring the most in-need members of our community receive treatment," said Ty Rogers, VP of corporate communications and board member of Seattle Center Foundation. "Amazon is proud to support this effort, and we’re committed to promoting health equity by ensuring these services are accessible. Thank you to everyone who came together to make this clinic happen, including the many Amazonians who volunteered their time to support our community."
Amazon has deep roots in the Puget Sound region and is dedicated to the area’s long-term success. That’s why Amazon is expanding the impact of this private-public partnership by committing additional funding to support clinic operations for the next three years.
“I’m so impressed with how teams at Amazon demonstrate a commitment to our culture of giving back to the community,” said Venkat Ramamurthy, senior software developer for Amazon and clinic volunteer. “After realizing how complex the healthcare system is, and the barriers so many face finding care, I was inspired to get involved. Volunteering at the clinic allows you to meet fascinating people from all walks of life while being part of something that has a huge and lasting impact.”
Photo by Auston JamesThe clinic, held February 15-18 at Seattle Center, brought together nearly 100 cross-sector partners spanning healthcare organizations, civic agencies, nonprofits, and private businesses. As healthcare costs rise, and available public services remain difficult to navigate, the clinic fills an urgent need for accessible care.
“We’re so grateful for Amazon’s generous support of Seattle/King County Clinic,” said Julia Colson, co-founder and project executive for the clinic. “Since our inception in 2014, together with our partners and volunteers, we have provided more than $23 million in critical dental, vision, and medical services free of cost to more than 27,000 individuals. That is the power of partnership.”
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February 15, 2024 5:00 AM
Amazon donates $9 million to organizations providing shelter and support services for individuals experiencing homelessness across Puget Sound
Today Amazon announced a donation of $9 million in grants to six local organizations addressing the urgent needs of people experiencing homelessness across the Seattle region. Major recipients include Mary’s Place and Plymouth Housing, with additional funding to support The YMCA, The YWCA, YouthCare, and Friends of Youth.
“As the number of people experiencing homelessness in our region continues to grow, it is important to support the organizations directly helping youth, families, and individuals,” said Alice Shobe, Global Director of Amazon in the Community. “From providing cash donations to local nonprofits to address soaring costs and increased demand, to investing more than $550 million to add over than 5,500 affordable homes in the Puget Sound, we are committed to helping tackle these challenges.”
The $9 million in grants will go to the following organizations:
Amazon is donating $6 million to Mary’s Place in support of its ongoing operations and to provide funding toward a new affordable housing development in Burien, WA. The project will replace an existing shelter and provide more than 200 beds of emergency family shelter, housing, outreach, and prevention services for families, along with 90 units of permanently affordable housing to be developed by Mercy Housing Northwest.
“Our partnership with Amazon has brought hope and housing to hundreds of women and families in our community. The love and support from Amazonians is life-changing,” said Mary’s Place CEO, Dominique Alex. “Today’s generous gift will help us increase critical shelter capacity and realize our big dream of making affordable housing more accessible for our guests and neighbors in South King County. We are so grateful to our incredible Amazon neighbors!”
Since 2016, Amazon has committed more than $100 million in cash and in-kind donations to support Mary’s Place’s work to address family homelessness in King County. In 2020, Amazon and Mary's Place united to open the Mary’s Place Family Center in The Regrade—a first-of-its-kind permanent family shelter built inside one of Amazon’s office buildings in its Seattle headquarters.
Plymouth Housingis a nonprofit that works to eliminate homelessness and address its causes by preserving, developing, and operating safe, quality, supportive housing. Plymouth also provides adults experiencing homelessness with opportunities to stabilize and improve their lives. Amazon is donating $2 million to Plymouth Housing to support the recent spike in demand for the organization’s services. Amazon has supported Plymouth Housing in multiple annual fundraising events, and in 2019, Amazon donated $5 million to their PROOF campaign, which helped create 600 new affordable homes.
“This incredible investment from Amazon allows Plymouth Housing to bring even more of our neighbors from life on the streets into the dignity of a permanent home," said Karen Lee, CEO of Plymouth Housing. "We look forward to our continued partnership with Amazon and to working together to ensure that our most vulnerable neighbors receive the housing and supportive services that they need to thrive and leave homelessness behind for good.”
The YMCA, YWCA, YouthCare, and Friends of Youth will use their grant funding to support their critical work serving the needs of people experiencing homelessness across the region, including families, women, and youth.
The donations announced today are the latest effort from Amazon to help address homelessness across Puget Sound. In addition to supporting the work of these organizations, Amazon is investing to increase affordable housing across the region. Learn more about Amazon’s community impact efforts.
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February 9, 2024 11:27 AM
Amazon opens two new offices in Bellevue—Dynamo and Sonic
The interior of Amazon's Dynamo building in Bellevue.
Take a look inside the newest buildings—Sonic and Dynamo—at our Puget Sound Headquarters, which host a variety of meeting spaces, lounges, focus rooms, grab 'n' go markets, and more.
Take a look inside the newest buildings—Sonic and Dynamo—at our Puget Sound Headquarters, which host a variety of meeting spaces, lounges, focus rooms, grab 'n' go markets, and more.
Dynamo provides space for over 1,500 employees, and opened shortly after we began welcoming 1,000 employees to Sonic.
A team suite in Amazon's Sonic building in Bellevue.
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February 6, 2024 8:00 AM
Amazon to fund return of landmark Night Market in Seattle’s historic Chinatown-International District
The Chinatown-International District’s annual Night Market has been a hallmark event in downtown Seattle since its inception in 2006—attracting thousands of visitors each fall to enjoy all the district has to offer. However, rising production costs and decreasing sponsorship forced the cancellation of the 2023 Night Market. Knowing the positive impact the Night Market has for small businesses, the local culture, and on the Seattle community, Amazon is excited to announce that we are committing $250,000 to ensure the market will continue for the next three years.
Each year, the market brings neighbors and the wider community to the Chinatown-International District (CID) to try a variety of cuisines, enjoy cultural performances, and browse vendor booths. In addition, the market adds much-needed foot traffic to the rich and varied small businesses that make up the district.
"Ahead of the Lunar New Year, and with Amazon’s generous donation and support, we’re thrilled to celebrate and bring this beloved community tradition back to the neighborhood after announcing its pause last summer," said Monisha Singh, executive director of the Chinatown-International District Business Improvement Area, the nonprofit that organizes the event. “The market, while celebrating culture and community, also serves as an important fundraiser for the critical work we do year-round to support those that live and work in our neighborhood—including our more than 400 small businesses. We look forward to welcoming visitors back to the Night Market this September to enjoy all that the CID has to offer.”
“Coming from a family of CID small business owners, I know how important the Chinatown-International District Night Market is to our community,” said Seattle Citywide Councilmember Tanya Woo. “It’s been a fixture of the neighborhood for nearly 20 years and has helped so many small businesses grow. That’s why I am so excited by this support to ensure it continues. My hope is that this funding will allow for the Night Market to endure for generations to come.”
The Market is planned for September 2024.
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January 8, 2024 4:38 PM
Amazon's Spheres shows hometown pride for championship game
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December 15, 2023 3:20 PM
Amazon donates toys and spreads joy in the Puget Sound Region this holiday season
‘Tis the season for giving! From setting up a Winter Wonderland in downtown Seattle for the community to hosting toy drives and shopping opportunities to support underserved children and families, Amazon is partnering with local organizations to help make this a special holiday season.
Over 300 Amazon employees volunteered at our Winter Wonderland Toy Store, which provided gifts to underserved families across the Puget Sound region to give their loved ones. With help from organizations like Wellspring Family Services and Rainier Athletes, the Winter Wonderland Toy Store welcomed hundreds of families to pick out over 13,000 gifts for the holidays, courtesy of Amazon.
Amazon also hosted an employee toy drive and donated more than 5,000 toys for children and families currently living at Mary’s Place Family Shelters. The toys were transported via Amazon delivery vans and hand-delivered by Amazon employees to the Mary’s Place Family Shelter locations in Seattle at our Puget Sound headquarters and in Bellevue.
And in South Lake Union, our neighbors are welcome to enjoy our downtown Seattle campus Winter Wonderland, which includes larger-than-life snow globes and trees adorned with lights—perfect for holiday photo opportunities. We provided complimentary hot chocolate and hosted winter season performances from the Dickens Carolers, who delighted pedestrians with acoustic versions of their holiday music favorites. Winter décor will be up until January 8, 2024.
In the last two years, Amazon has become the largest corporate philanthropist in the Puget Sound region with more than $174 million donated to hundreds of local nonprofits and charitable organizations. We have deep roots in the Puget Sound region and are committed to its long-term sustainable growth and success. Learn more about our efforts in the Puget Sound Community.
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December 14, 2023 11:08 AM
Amazon Helps Puget Sound students explore next-generation technology, including AI
Amazon volunteers helped students explore computer science and artificial intelligence (AI) as part of CSEdWeek—a national effort to advocate for equity, and celebrate the contributions of students, teachers, and partners to the technology industry.
In the Puget Sound, Amazon Future Engineer partnered with Seattle Public Schools and Bellevue School District to host Hour of Code events with over 100 local elementary school classrooms. Amazon volunteers used the new Hour of Code Dance Party: AI Edition, a collaboration with Code.org that gave students an hour-long introduction to coding and AI. Students created their own virtual music video set to hit songs from artists including Miley Cyrus, Harry Styles, and more. The activity provided an introduction to AI, including learning about large language models and how they are used to power the predictive analytics responsible for creating new images, text, and more.
“This is what we mean when we say ‘we want our kids Seattle ready.’ We're thankful our students can explore computer science in a way that’s safe with guidance from adults, so they can take it to the next level,” said Dr. Brent Jones, superintendent, Seattle Public Schools. “When we consider jobs of the future, we don't know what they are right now, but they'll have some aspect of coding. We can fight it or we can embrace it. I believe our students are learning how to embrace technology, naturally.”
Additionally, Amazon donated $1.5 million to Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) to update the CSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards to reflect rapid advancements in technologies like AI, help teachers incorporate career exploration initiatives in their classrooms for students, and maintain the CSTA Annual Conference as the premier professional learning event for CS educators. Learn more about Amazon’s efforts to expand access to computer science and STEM education.
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November 29, 2023 2:43 PM
How you can help end hunger in the Puget Sound region this holiday season with Amazon and Food Lifeline
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On November 22, fans and community members descended upon the Climate Pledge Arena before the Seattle Kraken game with canned goods in tow to support the “Together to End Hunger” food drive, say hello to Buoy, and catch artist, Stevie Shao, creating a mural in real time that was donated to Food Lifeline. The event was a collaboration between Amazon, Food Lifeline, and Shao to raise awareness about food insecurity in Puget Sound while also collecting food to support the community. Amazon delivered 1800 pounds of food, which equates to roughly 1500 meals, from this initiative to Food Lifeline who will distribute it across nearly 400 food distribution sites in the region.
Amazon’s partnership with Food Lifeline is an important one that dates back to 2008. Today, this partnership is more important than ever since over 1.5 million people in western Washington will visit food banks this year, which is a 50% increase from last year.
“With Amazon’s support through the donation of millions of pounds of food, logistical support, and financial contributions, Food Lifeline is able to better serve and deliver for Puget Sound residents facing food insecurity every day. We’d like to thank Amazon for their ongoing commitment to helping end hunger in their hometown community, everyone who has supported the 'Together to End Hunger' initiative, as well as those who support individually by donating their own time, money, and voice to support this cause,” says Ryan Scott, chief development officer of Food Lifeline.
If you haven’t had a chance yet, it’s not too late to support the work of Food Lifeline and make an impact on Puget Sound families this holiday season. Visit their website to donate or volunteer and check out scenes from the “Together to End Hunger” food drive above.
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November 17, 2023 9:51 AM
Amazon celebrates its apprenticeship programs that offer employees paid opportunities to learn new skills and get on-the-job training
Timed to National Apprenticeship Week (NAW), Amazon celebrated our various apprenticeship programs with organized local events in Seattle and Washington, D.C., and virtual viewing parties around the world. We also announced our 1,000th conversion from apprentice to full-time Amazon employee. The events offered an opportunity to recognize the achievements of current apprentices and recent apprentice graduates in cloud, mechatronics, and robotics roles, and hear from program leadership and our local partners. In Seattle, Amazon cohosted the events with Apprenti, a Seattle-based non-profit organization that administers the Amazon programs and coordinates with training providers.
Clint Daguplo started as a seasonal associate in July 2020, but he always had a passion for robotics. He decided to participate in the MRA program. “The apprenticeship program was great because I was able to earn the certifications needed for a job in robotics, while being paid during the learning and on-the-job training. Throughout the program, I was able to learn about the different opportunities Amazon offers to grow your career and to grow as a person.” After completing the MRA program, Clint landed a role as a Control Systems Technician on the Reliability and Maintenance Engineering team at an Amazon robotics site in Seattle.
NAW is a nationwide celebration that highlights the value of Registered Apprenticeships in advancing our economy, promoting equity, and supporting underserved communities. Amazon offers numerous paid apprenticeship programs that provide employees opportunities classroom learning and on-the-job training to earn the certifications and training hours needed to land technical and nontechnical roles. Read more about the benefits of on-the-job training programs like our apprenticeships from Nick Curry, Senior Manager of Emerging Talent Pipelines at Amazon.
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November 16, 2023 6:00 AM
Gage Academy to open non-profit art school in Amazon’s re:Invent building
In 2024, Gage Academy of Art will move from its current location in the Capitol Hill neighborhood into Amazon’s re:Invent building located in South Lake Union.
“Creating space for the arts is vital for fostering a thriving downtown that brings together diverse retail, dining, entertainment, and culture options, and we’re thrilled that our Puget Sound headquarters will host Gage Academy of Art as part of this effort,” said John Schoettler, vice president of Global Real Estate and Facilities at Amazon. “Gage Academy is an essential part of the Seattle arts scene and we look forward to experiencing firsthand the positive impact it will have on the surrounding community.”
Gage Academy of Art is a fixture of the Seattle arts community. The school is committed to excellence in the fields of painting, drawing, and sculpting, and has invited art makers of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to become a part of its vibrant learning community. More than 3,000 adults and young people enroll each year in Gage Academy’s ateliers, classes, workshops, and youth programming. Gage also hosts another 8,000 community members across its campus, partner locations, and online for free lectures, community art programs, and family-friendly events when it moves to its new space in South Lake Union, the school can serve a larger, more diverse student body in a central location and close to more public transportation options.
“We want to thank Amazon for supporting Gage Academy and our longstanding mission to make the arts accessible to Puget Sound community members of all ages,” said Kathleen Allen, executive director, Gage Academy of Art. “This partnership with Amazon and relocation downtown will allow us to develop a state-of-the-art facility that aligns with our commitment to excellence in arts education.”
The new 14,000-square-foot space is designed by architecture firm NBBJ and will include innovative and flexible classrooms, art studios, and communal student spaces that promote collaboration. The design will embody openness through its multi-level spaces and accessibility through its central downtown location and proximity to multiple public transportation options.
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November 13, 2023 3:43 AM
Community Impact Report: Puget Sound
As Amazon continues to grow, we know that our customers, employees, and the communities where we operate have high expectations of us. They look to us to have a positive impact beyond our investment and the jobs we create, and they want to see us apply our innovative spirit and resources to help address the many challenges their communities face. We want to do that, too.
Discover how we partner with local nonprofits and devote our resources, infrastructure, and people to help build a stronger community by reading our Community Impact Report: Puget Sound.
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November 10, 2023 9:26 AM
How Amazon and Food Lifeline are partnering to help end hunger in Puget Sound
Since 2008, Amazon has supported the critical work of Food Lifeline and its mission to end hunger in Western Washington. Food Lifeline sources millions of pounds of healthy, surplus food from partners across the region. From June 2022 through July 2023, 1.5 million people in Western Washington visited area food banks, which was a 50% increase over the previous year. Through its work, Food Lifeline delivers food to more than 400 distribution sites across Puget Sound to feed our neighbors every single day.
“Our weekly deliveries of food from Amazon and its partners are a key component in the work we do in Western Washington,” says Ryan Scott, chief development officer of Food Lifeline. “The yellow crates they deliver are everywhere in our warehouse and are a testament to Amazon’s commitment and hard work in helping end hunger.”
This November, we’re excited to expand our partnership in support of Food Lifeline’s “Together to End Hunger” holiday initiative. Beginning November 6, a food donation bin designed by local Seattle artist, Stevie Shao, will be set up at Kraken Community Iceplex to collect food items for donation to Food Lifeline.
On November 22, fans and neighbors can join us before the Seattle Kraken game on the southwest plaza outside Climate Pledge Arena from 3-7 p.m. PST for the “Together to End Hunger” Food Drive presented by Amazon to benefit Food Lifeline. Bring canned goods to donate, see Stevie Shao create a “Together to End Hunger” mural live, and pick up your own “Together to End Hunger” advocacy patch featuring Shao’s design. All food collected by Amazon will be delivered to Food Lifeline, then transported to food distribution sites across Puget Sound.
“We’re building a movement to end hunger,” said Scott. “And the key to building a movement is raising awareness. The more people understand the problems, the more action they will take. With our “Together to End Hunger” holiday initiative, Amazon is helping bring more people into the conversation, and more voices mean more action.”
Food Lifeline is one of several organizations that Amazon supports financially and logistically to help people facing food insecurity across Puget Sound. Learn how Amazon partners with additional food assistance organizations across the U.S. and other ways Amazon invests in the Puget Sound community.
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November 6, 2023 8:00 AM
Amazon partners with the Gary Sinise Foundation to support Seattle first responders on the front lines
Amazon is partnering with the Gary Sinise Foundation (GSF) to give $150,000 to the Seattle Fire Department to fund new safety equipment and firefighter mental health resources to support the needs of first responders in Seattle.
“Our firefighters bravely respond to unthinkable challenges, and this can take a toll on mental health,” said Guy Palumbo, director, Amazon Public Policy. “We must make sure that, as a community, we are investing in our first responders, so they’re able to continue their life-saving work. This grant is our way of saying ‘thank you’ for serving our city with dedication and courage."
The donation is part of a new three-year commitment from Amazon to GSF to honor military veterans and first responders, and will help fund first responder grants for state-of-the-art equipment. This includes resources like a revolutionary PeerConnect app, which provides peer support, wellness tools, self-assessment, mental health programming, and resources to Seattle Fire team members. The Department will also be equipped with 900 pairs of cutting-edge extrication gloves, ensuring hand protection in various rescue scenarios.
“We are grateful to have been selected for this grant from GSF and Amazon,” said Seattle Fire Chief Harold D. Scoggins. “With nearly every dollar of our department budget allocated, finding the money for new equipment and training can be challenging. Through this generous grant, we’re able to provide each firefighter with the tools they need, while continuing to build programs that help firefighters deal with the traumatic and stressful situations they encounter daily. Neither would have been possible without GSF and Amazon’s support.”
GSF has a long-standing mission of honoring defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need through various programs, initiatives, and contributions like this one.
“Our first responders are on the front lines of our communities, running into danger and risking their lives every day to keep their cities safe,” said Donna Palmer, executive director, GSF. “On behalf of our founder, Gary Sinise, and our incredible partner, Amazon, we are honored to provide this essential equipment to the Seattle Fire Department to show our deep gratitude for these heroes and their service to their community.”
A day of appreciation
Earlier in October, to mark National First Responders Day, volunteers from Amazon and GSF team members gathered at Seattle Fire Station 2 in Belltown to extend their appreciation. Seven members of the Amazon First Responders affinity group, a group of former first responders, volunteered to serve meals to the firefighters in attendance. In addition, two therapy dogs joined to help lend a “paw” to support firefighters during the event.
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November 2, 2023 8:00 AM
Amazon is sizing up and investing in its Washington workforce for the holidays
In September, we shared that Amazon would be creating more than 250,000 full-time, part-time, and seasonal fulfillment center and transportation roles for the holiday season. In Washington state, that means 7,000 new opportunities for people looking for a new job, interested in making a career pivot, or just looking for a short-term way to earn extra money. And the roles we provide are for those at any career stage. In fact, 56% of associates hired by Amazon in the Seattle area were previously not working, and for 11% of those people, their role at Amazon was their first job.
“When I first started at Amazon, I was a seasonal employee, and then I really quickly became a blue badge, full-time employee,” said Laci Temple, a delivery station associate in Sumner, Washington. “You have a lot of opportunities here that you can take advantage of.”
What’s more, Amazon is also investing $1.3 billion this year toward pay increases for customer fulfillment and transportation employees, bringing the average pay for those roles to over $20.50 per hour. Some fulfillment centers are also providing bonuses, like $3,000 being offered at a fulfillment center in Arlington, Washington.
“I came to Amazon earlier this year because I was looking for an opportunity that would allow me to run my business and earn a paycheck after hours,” said local Amazon employee and farmer Grace Graver, an associate who works at Amazon’s fulfillment center in Kent, Washington. “You get medical and dental benefits from day one. Not only that, but the retirement benefits are great. It’s really easy to enroll in, and HR walks you through everything.”
We provide career advancement opportunities, anytime access to earned pay, health, vision, and dental insurance from the first day on the job; a 401(k) with company match; up to 20 weeks of paid pregnancy/parental leave for birth parents (six weeks for eligible supporting parents); and Amazon’s Resources for Living program, a free benefit offering mental health and financial services and support for employees, their families, and their households.
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October 31, 2023 3:32 PM
Delivering the Future takes attendees behind the scenes on our latest innovations
In October, Amazon hosted Delivering the Future at our Puget Sound headquarters. 100+ reporters from around the world got a behind-the-scenes look at our latest innovations that will help us better serve customers, support employees, and show up for communities we serve around the world. Learn how Amazon is driving innovation, right here in the Puget Sound:
- Amazon announces 8 innovations to better deliver for customers, support employees, and give back to communities around the world
- Amazon announces 2 new ways it's using robots to assist employees and deliver for customers
- Amazon is launching ultra-fast drone deliveries in Italy, the UK, and a third location in the U.S.
- Amazon announces its first automated U.S. fulfillment center to eliminate plastic delivery packaging
- Amazon unveils new AI-powered technology that will inspect delivery vans and help keep drivers safe
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October 30, 2023 3:30 PM
Amazon’s Global Month of Volunteering effort delivers 90,000 hygiene kits to Puget Sound organizations that support disaster relief
Tens of thousands of Amazon employees from 51 countries around the globe participated in Amazon’s Global Month of Volunteering, an initiative dedicated to building stronger communities in the cities and towns where our employees live and work. Volunteers cleaned up parks, donated school supplies and clothing to students, built houses for families experiencing homelessness, assembled wish boxes for kids, and delivered meals to local food banks.
In Seattle, employees gathered at Amazon’s Day 1 Playfield to volunteer with Clean the World to build and deliver more than 90,000 hygiene kits to Puget Sound organizations that support disaster relief efforts around the world. Clean the World provides recycled soap and hygiene supplies to people who have limited access to essential items that help prevent illnesses and diseases.
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October 25, 2023 3:05 PM
Amazon Housing Equity Fund Brings minority-led developers together in Seattle
On October 16 and 17, 2023, 25 fellows from the Amazon Housing Equity Fund’s Housing Equity Accelerator Fellowship (HEAF) program met in Seattle, Washington to visit several affordable housing developments across the region and to share their experiences as program members—a key goal of the Housing Equity Fund is to support diverse developers and minority-led nonprofits focused on affordable housing.
Visiting fellows toured four affordable housing properties—some that were complete, under construction, and yet to break ground—while learning from local developers at these project sites. Fellows also shared insights regarding how the Amazon Housing Equity Fund is helping them grow their businesses while creating more affordable homes across their respective communities.
Collectively, the Amazon Accelerator program includes 38 diverse developers from the Puget Sound Region, the Arlington, Virginia/ Washington D.C. region, and Nashville, Tennessee. Learn more about the Amazon Housing Equity Fund and its Accelerator program.
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October 23, 2023 12:40 PM
Amazon gives another $1.7 million to help meet the basic needs of students from underserved communities in Seattle and Bellevue, Washington
Amazon provided a new $1.7 million donation to Alliance for Education and Bellevue LifeSpring to support the immediate needs of students from underserved communities in Seattle and Bellevue, Washington. These nonprofit organizations will use the contributions to help manage their respective Right Now Needs Funds—programs designed to ensure students in the Puget Sound region have their basic needs covered, from from food to clothes to school supplies. Amazon’s donation includes $1 million to the Alliance for Education to support all 104 schools within the Seattle Public Schools district and $700,000 to Bellevue LifeSpring to support all 30 Bellevue School District schools.
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October 2, 2023 11:10 AM
Amazon’s Washington state investment grows to $225.7 billion
Last week, we released the latest findings from Amazon’s 2023 Economic Impact Report. Since 2010, we’ve invested more than $225.7 billion in Washington state. Keystone Strategy, a third-party consultancy has found that these investments, including infrastructure and compensation to our employees, have helped to expand the local economy and support an additional 487,200 indirect and induced jobs across the state in fields like health care, retail, construction, and education. Additionally, more than $205 billion has been added to the state’s gross domestic product (GDP) thanks to our investments and job creation, on top of what we’ve directly invested.
“Amazon is proud of our role in keeping the Puget Sound region and Washington state economic engines running,” said Ron Frierson, director of Economic Development for the Western U.S. at Amazon. “From the hundreds of thousands of direct and indirect jobs we’ve created and supported across the state, to the development of our global headquarters and infrastructure investments, we’re proud of the opportunities we helped to unlock for Washingtonians.”
We also know that our responsibilities here go beyond our business investments, and we’re committed to the causes that matter to the community. In the last two years alone, Amazon has become the largest corporate philanthropist in the Puget Sound region, with more than $174 million donated to local nonprofit groups and charitable organizations. On top of this, we’ve also provided more than $500 million to create and preserve more than 5,300 affordable homes here through the Housing Equity Fund, Amazon’s $2 billion commitment to address the national housing affordability challenges starting in our hometown communities.
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September 21, 2023 9:00 AM
Amazon volunteers help keep clean up Seattle parks
Amazon volunteers helped clean up five parks around Seattle as part of Amazon’s Global Month of Volunteering initiative. This is the second year Amazon volunteers participated in the Seattle Parks cleanup activity, where they assisted with picking up litter, weeding, and mulching activities, all in the name of beautifying the parks.
From September 1-30, tens of thousands of Amazon employees will volunteer to support the communities where they live and work, adding to the company’s local investments throughout the year, as part of the Global Month of Volunteering initiative. In collaboration with hundreds of community organizations, employees will help support causes they are passionate about—from climate change, education, and food insecurity, to disaster relief and housing inequity.
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September 19, 2023 9:00 AM
Amazon to help moderate-income residents become homeowners across the Puget Sound
Grand Street Commons, Seattle, WA.Amazon’s Housing Equity Fund (HEF) launched a $40 million pilot program that will help up to 800 families and individuals become homeowners, including residents from underserved communities across Puget Sound. The pilot is in partnership with the National Housing Trust (NHT) and will support a range of innovative homeownership models led by local nonprofit organizations in the Puget Sound region (as well as organizations in the Arlington, VA and Washington, D.C. region, and Nashville, TN). NHT will partner with these organizations to acquire and build affordable homes for sale to local residents (the majority of them making below 80% of the area median income).
African Community Housing & Development (ACHD) is one of the Puget Sound-area organizations participating in this initiative. "This funding will allow ACHD to further develop our holistic services and affordable homeownership projects for the African Diaspora community in King County," said Hamdi Abdulle, ACHD Executive Director. "ACHD knows that when we invest in affordable homeownership, we invest in advancing human dignity."
Since 2021, HEF has committed more than $1.7 billion to create or preserve more than 14,000 affordable homes for renters across the company’s hometown communities, including more than 5,300 homes across Puget Sound. Learn more about this pilot program and Amazon’s Commitment to Housing Equity.
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September 19, 2023 9:00 AM
Amazon in the Puget Sound
Looking for the latest news about what’s happening around our Puget Sound headquarters? You’re in the right place.
With more than 75,000 employees here, we continue to invest in the community, help power the local economy, and provide well-paying jobs with leading benefits. As Amazon grows, so does our responsibility to the people and places that we call home.
We’re committed to addressing issues that matter most to the Puget Sound community including affordable housing, education, and homelessness. We offer employment, pre-paid education, and technical skills training to move into higher-paying roles, and up to 20 weeks of paid parental leave across the U.S.
A lot is happening here—be sure to check back regularly to discover the latest about Amazon’s community commitments and how we’re investing and unlocking opportunity for our hometown region.
Learn more about what we’re doing in the Puget Sound region for our employees, neighbors, and the community.
- How Amazon is helping Puget Sound employees develop skills and land the jobs of the future
- 9 statistics that show how Amazon’s return to office is helping to bolster Seattle businesses
- Amazon named top corporate giver in Puget Sound region
- Meet the 8 rising Seattle artists selected for Amazon’s Artist in Residence program
- Amazon commits $25 million to new public-private housing fund that will build affordable homes near public transit across Washington state
- Amazon donates $3 million to community colleges’ computer science programs in the Puget Sound region
- Amazon to fund construction of 568 affordable homes in Seattle
- Amazon welcomes 4 new small businesses to Puget Sound HQ
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