Some friends have expressed concern about how safe I am in Portland after what they hear from certain sources. Our city has problems, but it is not a ‘hellscape.’ It is not burning and never was … It is shocking to be threatened with military force when there is no need … Throughout Portland, neighbors plant gardens, form book groups, enjoy our beautiful outdoors, drink gallons of coffee and locally brewed beers, and look out for each other. Our communities are strong.
This quote was excerpted from an annual holiday letter written by a longtime college friend who lives nearby. The relevance and resonance of her message extend into spring.
Reality check: Ukraine is a war zone; Beaumont-Wilshire is not. Nor is the rest of our city with its 90-plus neighborhood associations building community, not bomb shelters.
Of particular relevance to BWNA is the last sentence of my friend’s message: “Our communities are strong.” So, what exactly does a neighborhood association do that contributes to a strong community? BWNA is guided by four purposes in its bylaws:
Serve as a conduit for intra-neighborhood communication
This newsletter is BWNA’s most extensive communication vehicle, reaching over 2,700 B-W households and businesses, but it’s an every-other-month publication. We also provide more timely information about events and current issues via our monthly community update emailed to nearly 600 residents. To receive these updates, subscribe via the BWNA website (BWNApdx.org/Subscribe).
Facilitate civic participation on the local level
A good place to start is our website’s “Get Involved” page, which provides a host of volunteer opportunities, from serving on a committee to lending a hand on a project or event.
Provide an open forum for residents to be heard on neighborhood issues
There are opportunities for sharing your concerns at monthly meetings or by submitting an opinion piece for the newsletter on a topic of relevance to the neighborhood. Guest speakers, including local police officers, candidates, and elected officials, are featured periodically.
Undertake various projects for the good of the neighborhood
Recent projects include
- Pedestrian Safety Flags
- Annual All-Neighborhood Block Party
- Public Plaza Initiative
- Art & Garden Tour
- Neighborhood Cleanup Events
- New Neighbor Welcoming Project
Especially in these challenging times, a community’s strength is inextricably linked to resident participation. Be involved.
by Al Ellis, BWNA Board President