EAST PORTLAND ACTION PLAN (EPAP) Draft Meeting NOTES: MAY 26, 2010

MEETING ATTENDANCE: Tom Barnes (Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Larry Kotan (Parkrose Heights Resident, Assoc. + East Portland Graffiti Clean-up + EPAP Hands On Portland + EPAP Economic Bike + EPAP Powell Blvd. Project Representative) Development Chair + Grant Review) Kris Bella (EP Community Coalition, NW Behavioral Katie Larsell (NE Resident, EPAP Bike, Organization, + EPAP Youth) Communication, + City Budget Advisory Rep.) Alice P. Blatt (Wilkes Community Group) Jon Mayer ( State University/4-H + EPAP Youth Representative) Brooke Chilton Timmons (Metropolitan Family Faith Maxwell (Teen Force: Portland Parks & Center) Recreation + EPAP Youth Subcommittee) Frieda Christopher (David Douglas School District + Steffeni Mendoza Gray (City of Portland EPAP Civic Development) Government Relations) Marie Daniels (MeOutLoud Business Owner + EPAP Shannon Olive (OPAL) Economic Development + Youth) Frank Di Gregorio (Pleasant Valley Neighborhood) Olivia Quiroz (Multnomah County Health Department + EPAP Civic Development) Jeanie Di Gregorio (Parent + Concerned Citizen) Nick Sauvie (ROSE CDC + EPAP Economic Development) Jean DeMaster (Human Solutions + EPAP Economic Chris Scarzello (Bureau of Planning + Development Subcommittee + Minority Housing + Sustainability + EPAP Economic Dev.) Multnomah Consolidated Plan Representative) Betty Dominguez (Housing Authority of Portland) Shannon Olive (OPAL) Justin Douglas (Portland Development Commission) Dianne Riley (Coalition for a Livable Future) Bob Earnest (Gateway Urban Renewal Area + Linda Robinson (EPAP Gateway Green + Hazelwood NA + EPAP Structures + Grant Review) Parks Representative) Mike Ewald (David Douglas Schools) Angela Ryan (Alice Ott Middle School) Karen Gray (Parkrose School District, EPAP Nick Sauvie (ROSE Community Dev. Corp. + Communication) EPAP Economic Development) Stuart Gwin (Portland Bureau of Transportation) Alyson Spencer (Multnomah County Commissioner Shiprack) David Hampsten (Hazelwood NA + East Portland Annette Stanfill (Alice Ott Middle School) Land Use-Transportation + EPAP Bike Chair + Economic Development + Structures + Transportation Budget Advisory Committee Rep.) Jean Harrison (Gateway Green) James Stanfill (Parent) Rev. Brian Heron (Eastminster Presbyterian Church Jon Turino (Farmers Insurance + EPAP + EPAP Chair +Structures) Grants Review Committee)

1 of 32 Jean Harrison (Gateway Green) Mike Vander Veen (Hazelwood NA+Parklane Church + East Portland Neighborhood Office+ EPAP Structures) Rev. Brian Heron (Eastminster Presbyterian Church Mark White (Powellhurst-Gilbert NA + EPO + EPAP Chair + Structures Committee) XPO + EPAP Economic) Raymond Hites (East Portland Neighbors+Lents NA) Sharon White (Portland Bureau of Transportation) Warren Jimenez (Mayor’s Office) Troy Wilkerson (ROSE CDC + Portland Housing Commission + EP Business + PMAR) Arlene Kimura (Hazelwood NA+ EP Office Land Use- Lore Wintergreen (EPNO/EPAP) Transportation+ EP Parks Coalition + EPAP Chair + Structures Committee + Main Streets + Parks Representative) Joanna Klick (David Douglas Historical Society) Dolores Wood (Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association + EP Parks)

I. Welcome: A. Brian Heron facilitated the meeting and welcomed attendees who introduced themselves. B. Members (those who are attending at least a second EPAP meeting) were encouraged to sign an EPAP Partnership Agreement and submit an Affiliations form. D. Brian shared a list of identified East Portland “Riches” that were documented (See notes on page 13). People added: 40% of Portland’s school-aged children; massive available road right-of-way; more off-street bike paths; and natural beauty of the Buttes. E. Arlene referred to timekeeping.

II. Budget and Project Proposal Updates and Advocacy Report Back A. lore spoke about the $279,692 for EPAP proposed by the Mayor in the City of Portland Fiscal Year 2010-11 Budget. She said that while this was not the over $1million that the EPAP requested (including funding of EPAP priority projects), we never thought that the Mayor could print the $, but that he could influence the City Bureaus to integrate the projects into their operations. B. David said that indeed, while there is much to be done related to transportation needs in East Portland, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) has committed to funding each of the related EPAP priority project requests in this fiscal year. That means we got the $279,692 + $305,000 (plus the leveraged $315,000 that PBOT committed to in matching $ for the projects). David said that this brings us up to what we got last year. C. lore said that her understanding, from the Mayor’s budget detail and his presentation at the East Portland Enhancement Project (EP2) Economic Development forum, is that:

2 of 32 1. $129,692 will pay for the Advocate position and related expenses, 2. Up to $100,000 in funding is earmarked for the Small/Medium Grants program; and 3. $50,000 is available to apply toward the priority projects.

She then introduced Warren Jimenez, Deputy Chief of Staff with the Office of Mayor Adams, and asked him to speak about EPAP and the budget. D. Warren spoke of the following: 1. State of Oregon funding is cut and the ripple effect is about a 10% cut for the City. This makes all discussions more complex and harder 2. Appreciation of the contribution that Katie Larsell made with her involvement on the City-wide Budget Advisory Committee. 3. The City was prepared for the need for budget cuts, and did mid-term General Fund $ cuts – 2% for Community Safety operations and 4% for other Bureaus. 4. Preserving core values were the factors influencing the cuts. 5. EPAP provided good lists of asks and needs, but given the economy, they cannot all be met. The $279,692 is for EPAP infrastructure building and allocations targeted toward the grant program. The remaining $ can be allocated as EPAP prioritizes (this includes determining how much will be allocated to the EPAP Grants program). 6. Today City Council adopted the Mayor’s proposed budget. There are still next steps before it becomes official. Further along, there will be talks and opportunities to look into existing workplans and leveraging other sources for funding. E. Tom Barnes talked about graffiti removal and the work he and Donna are doing with some support from Marsh Dennis from the Office of Neighborhood Involvement Crime Prevention. They started in the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood and with the $2,000 EPAP grant have leveraged $15,000 worth of volunteer hours. He wants to continue and to grow this program, which is an EPAP priority project request to create a fixed position. F. Warren responded that the EPAP grants showed significant leveraging success. G. Larry Kotan asked why, if 2-4% was made in City budget cuts, EPAP took a 40% cut in $ commitment. H. Warren said that the 2-4% was across Bureaus, but per program, some of the cuts were very high level. He said that public safety was the top priority. I. Frieda Christopher said that Portland Public Schools (PPS) received $70,000 for re-usable lunch trays and $200,000 for improvements on an athletic facility at Roosevelt High School in North Portland. She noted that PPS has long been given support, while it is difficult to get School District assistance out here.

3 of 32 J. Warren said that this year Parkrose School District was given $100,000 for their soccer field. K. Frieda said that this is an equity issue. L. Time allotted for the conversation ran out, so Brian asked how many people wanted to speak and allotted 2 minutes each. M. Larry spoke of the EPAP Economic Development meeting he and Brian had with Commissioner Randy Leonard. Larry asked why EPAP did not get more $ and said that the EPAP allocation was band aid. Randy responded that everyone was cut and all that East Portland needs is a couple key projects within the Urban Renewal Areas to get things going out here. N. Marie Daniels, Faith, Randy, Susan and 4 youth from the EPAP Youth Subcommittee met with Todd and Reese from the Mayor’s Office. The youth advocated for safe places to meet – a Teen Center, youth economic development programs, and more after-school programs like 4-H and REAP. Marie explained that the EPAP youth related priority projects needing to be embraced by PDC and the Children’s Levy are a no-brainer. The Youth Subcommittee is scheduled to meet with Commissioner Dan Saltzman next Friday. O. David Hampsten spoke of his meeting with Representative Smith and PBOT staff members Mark Lear and Greg Raisman. He and the Representative advocated to get the East Portland Bike Master Plan completed ASAP and to include crossing improvements. They left with a commitment to build the Bike Blvd on 130th and Sacramento next year. David spoke about the items EPAP requested in the CIP. P. Mark White said that Commissioner Fritz was receptive to embedding projects in different Bureaus. She said that the Office of Neighborhood Involvement’s other districts had their small grant funds cut back this year. Mark stressed that the City dropped the ball related to the Federal Stimulus funds, which was a perfect opportunity to address issues in East Portland. He said that they need to make-up for this and the history of neglect. Amanda encouraged people to send communications via letter and email, so that the information can be more easily shared. Q. Katie Larsell explained that being on the City-wide Budget Committee puts you at the end of the process. EPAP needs to have representatives upfront on the Budget Advisory Committees of the Portland Housing Bureau and the Bureau of Environmental Services. She is welcome to talk with interested people. R. Warren said that he will be happy to help. He suggests that each representative have an alternate. S. David said that Linda Bauer is the Transportation Bureau alternate. T. Brian acknowledged that EPAP keeps showing-up. U. Warren said that he would stay connected, and as he left, he asked lore to contact him about next steps. He left his card for people wanting to contact

4 of 32 him: Warren Jimenez at 503.823.4046 or [email protected] .

III. EPAP Grant Awards – Jon Turino Jon joked that being on the EPAP Grant Review Committee is a thankless job…you have to turn some people down. He spoke of the ranking process, the review criteria, negotiations, and the projects receiving funding: A. Grant Committee Purpose To provided funding for projects that support the goals, strategies and tactics identified in the East Portland Action Plan Total funds available for FY 2009-2010 were $50,000 Funds were allocated in two grant cycles a. Fall 2009 – Nine Grants -- $28,408 b. Spring 2010 – Nine Grants -- $21,592 B. Grant Committee People Larry Kotan Susan Dean Christina Scarzello Bob Earnest Jon Turino Lore Wintergreen as facilitator C. Grant Committee Process Individual independent review and scoring Initial meetings to go over ratings and establish rankings a. Grant Review Criteria b. 2008 Prioritization Criteria Clarification calls courtesy of lore wintergreen Final meetings to determine actual grant recipients and award amounts D. Grant Committee Results Thirty seven grant applications Total requested funds of $228,000 Eighteen grants awarded Total of $50,000 awarded Total leveraged funds of $345,615 Estimated 693% leverage on funds awarded Grants made this round: Multicultural Share Fair to be added to the EPO XPO by Northwest Housing Alternatives $1,000 Learn Zomi Language (Preserving heritage) $1,000 (with another $1,500 contributed by Multnomah County for the color printing of the workbook) Expanding Swimming Lessons at David Douglas High School $1,900 East Portland Transit and Health Equity by OPAL $2,000

5 of 32 ARCO-IRIS Festival (with a portion to be added to the EPO XPO by the Tree Institute) $2,500 Mill Park SUN After School Class Expansion $2,500 Glenfair Community Garden $3,250 Chess for Success After School Program $3,942 Russian Speaking Youth Leadership Conference $4,000 Everyday Science: From Soil to Stovetop $4,000

IV. Gateway Green Update – Linda Robinson and Jean Harrison A. Gateway Green is doing the work to become a not-for-profit 501-C-3. B. Their web site is: www.gatewaygreenpdx.org . C. This citizen-initiated and EPAP financially supported project requires collaboration between multiple levels of government, businesses and non- profits. D. The project area is a large open space (35+ acres) between I-84 and I-205 freeways and additional publically-owned open space (about 95+ acres) on the eastern side and top of . E. An Oregon Solutions Gateway Green Project Team is currently working with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and other stakeholders to develop a legal agreement that will permit the community to develop recreational opportunities on the site. F. People were encouraged to schedule a presentation to other groups and to set-up guided walks on the site through the EPAP Gateway Green Representative Linda Robinson (Chair of Friends of Gateway Green): [email protected] or 503.261.9566. G. Some guided walks have been scheduled through the PBOT SmartTrips program. H. Most of the property is lower than the freeway, and since sound goes up, it is quieter than you would think. I. Tom asked what the estimated time frame for completion is and if there is any part being used for urban farming. J. Linda said that there is no time line. She explained that vehicle access will be limited to public access and that much of the property is a big hill that is actually a pile of construction debris with slight soil on top, thus not appropriate for farming. The land consists of residue left from the ice age – gravel and rocks. K. When Tom asked about temporary uses, Linda explained that to get ODOT permission for such uses would take years. She also mentioned the need to get railroad right-of-way. L. Olivia Quiroz asked about using some of the area for soccer playing fields. M. Linda said that it is too hilly. She said that they are looking at biking and walking usages. She said that this has been a 2-year process and ideas have

6 of 32 been vetted and truth tested for what will work on the site. The only structure that is being considered is a restroom. N. Marie suggested horse trails. O. Linda said that this is the first time anyone had suggested this and she raised the concern about loading and unloading horses at the site. P. Lore said that based upon Linda’s responses, lore is now realizing that Gateway Green is not looking for input and that the usage of the area is basically a done deal (lore has learned that she misperceived that Gateway Green is not considering new suggestions. Linda wants people to know that there is still opportunity to give input. You can contact her at: [email protected] or 503.261.9566). Q. Linda explained that a number of the things being suggested have been suggested earlier and investigated pretty thoroughly. They are still open to new ideas (Update: she is taking the horseback riding idea to the group). Linda ended by saying that they want to get more people aware of Gateway Green and talking about the project.

V. REACH Youth Photo Voice Project Update - Alice Ott Middle School Students + Kris Bella The Alice Ott Middle School REACH Youth Photo Voice Project received a $1,998 EPAP grant. Students spoke about their project: A. Students shared pictures that they took demonstrating the problems in their neighborhood. B. Some students approached one home to talk about needs for improvements and they were respectfully listened to, which was much appreciated. C. Students produced a video that includes sharing what they want in their community: 1. A better and cleaner world 2. A community where everyone is involved 3. A drug and alcohol free community D. A Volunteer Poem was shared E. Students talked about what they learned from the project: 1. Speaking-up in a nice way 2. Self-confidence 3. Patience to bring people along to do what needs to be done 4. Doing the right thing creates a chain reaction F. Larry encouraged them to go to City Council. G. Next Thursday they will be going to Zenger Farm East Portland Community Coalition. H. Arlene pledged that we support and work with you to make the community you want. I. Mark said that he is so proud of them.

7 of 32 J. Marie asked them to join the EPAP Youth Subcommittee. She asked them to keep doing what they are doing; keep talking until people listen. She thanked them for sharing. K. faith maxwell extended an invitation for them to come to the East Portland Community Center. She shared that she is the Teen Coordinator and would welcome their participation. She encouraged them to keep doing what they are doing. L. Allyson noted that there were a lot of Students of Color in the video, but not here this evening. M. Kris said that it was a matter of the meeting time and transportation.

VI. OPAL Update – Shannon Parker A. Organizing People-Activating Leaders (OPAL) is a non-profit organization providing education, engagement, and empowering families related to Environmental Justice. B. Bus line #4 is being cut. C. Shannon has been getting out on the buses to talk and organize people. She does this on Wednesdays from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM and Thursdays from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM. D. The next Bus Riders Unite meeting is on Tuesday, June 8th from 6 – 8 PM at the OPAL office on 49th and Division (2407 SE 49th). E. Fare increases are the #1 concern that has been identified (over route cuts). F. She encourages people to get involved and take leadership roles: 1. Public testimony 2. Website research 3. Facilitating groups G. They have already testified at the Tri-Met Board. 6 Board Members voted for and 1 voted against the fare increase. H. Shannon wants to reach-out to social service agencies, schools, churches, and Neighborhood Associations. I. She is working to get the word out that these changes affect people’s lives.

VII. Subcommittee Check-in: A. Bike – David Hampsten 1. See Notes on pages 14 + 15 B. Civic Development – Olivia Quiroz 1. See Notes on pages 16 - 18 C. Communications – Karen Gray 1. See Notes on pages 19 - 22 2. Commissioner Nick Fish will be at the Parkrose soccer field dedication on May 28th.

8 of 32 3. Senator Jeff Merkley will be holding a Town Hall meeting on Saturday, June 5, 2010 starting 11:20 Am at Parkrose High School Student Center, 12003 NE Shaver St. Please go. D. Economic Development – Larry Kotan 1. See Notes on pages 23 - 25 2. ROSE Community Development Network (CDC) held an East Portland Enhancement (EP2) Project Economic Development forum with the Mayor. Nick said that it went well as a first step. The Mayor acknowledged the EPAP project proposals and asked for a couple proposals per Bureau (Lore reformatted the EPAP proposal packet to reflect lead Bureau and resubmitted the package to the Mayor’s Office). Nick said that we need to keep advocating actively. 3. Troy Wilkerson said that his presence at the City Budget meeting was recognized and it drew attention and mention of East Portland. 4. The need to create an East Portland brand and communication plan was supported (Exactly what the Communication Subcommittee has been working to create.) 5. Marie and Troy spoke of the need for a business outreach strategy. E. Structures – Bob Earnest 1. See Notes on pages 26 + 27 2. Bob explained that lore is not able to perform all the EPAP general meeting organizing tasks, as some require simultaneous activity since we are at an off-site location. He asked people to sign-up to assist with: a. Picking-up Dinner – those who signed-up are 1) Bob Earnest 2) Mike Vander Veen 3) Brian Heron 4) Jean DeMaster 5) Katie Larsell 6) Karen Gray 7) Frank DiGregorio 8) faith maxwell b. Host – those who signed-up are 1) Bob Earnest 2) Nick Sauvie 3) faith maxwell 4) Frank DiGregario 5) Brooke Chilton Timmons 6) Katie Larsell 7) Jean DeMaster 8) Mike Vander Veen 9) Frieda Christopher 10) Kris Bella

9 of 32 c. Orientation – those who signed-up are 1) Bob Earnest 2) Mike Vander Veen 3) Brian Heron 4) David Hampsten 5) faith Maxwell 6) Nick Sauvie 7) Troy Wilkerson 3. Frieda suggested the possibility of utilizing David Douglas High School catering class for food. lore will try to make contact again. F. Youth – Marie Daniels 1. See Notes on pages 28 + 29 2. Marie expressed anger about PDC not involving youth in the focus groups they are holding. She was told by Howard Cutler that “they are best utilized later”. Marie found this highly offensive and questioned whether someone would feel they could say such a thing relating to other specific communities. She will be bringing a couple youth to the focus group she will be attending next week. 3. The 2010 Youth Summit for Youth Service Providers will focus this year on “Giving a Hand – Engaging Youth with Service Experience” at the East Portland Community Center on Wednesday, June 9th from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM.

VIII. Representative Check-in A. Nomination of Mike Vander Veen as EPAP Assets Based Community Development Representative – Brian Heron 1. See Proposal on pages 30 - 32 2. Brian nominated Mike Vander Veen to serve as the East Portland Action Plan Representative on Assets Based Community Development. He recognized that this is the basis of the Americorp work that Mike is already doing through the East Portland Neighborhood Office. 3. Tom Barnes said that he as been working with Mike on graffiti outreach and that Mike has been a great resource 4. ACTION: It was unanimously approved to have Mike serve as the EPAP Assets Based Community Development Representative.

IX. Announcements/Information A. Human Solutions at Burgerville – Jean DeMaster announced this May 27th 4-8PM fundraiser for HumanSolutions. B. Portland Housing Bureau Awards – Jean announced that East Portland received 57% of the Portland Housing Bureau $: The Briarwood East

10 of 32 apartments in the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood received $2.06 million that will be spent on rehabilitation of the property; and Holgate House in Lents received $922,398 to construct Portland’s first modular multi-family affordable housing project. In addition, the Halsey Project on NE 81st (very close to East Portland) received $650,000. C. America Speaks national town meeting – Dianne Riley announced the Saturday, June 26th national discussion about the Federal Budget. This is a grass routes organizing effort that will convene in public libraries and community centers across the United States of America to establish what the people want prioritized in the federal budget. If you want to speak-out about how our money should be spent, they want you to join. People will get breakfast and lunch and childcare and translation/interpretation will be provided. Julie Massa is working with Dianne to involve low-income communities. They are hoping to involve demographic representation of the region. Youth 17 and older are encouraged to participate. You can contact Dianne for further information: 503.381.5857 or [email protected] . D. EPAP Orientation, Hosting, and Dinner Pickup – Bob thanked people for signing-up. E. Gloria Wiggins is the Real McCoy – lore acknowledged that Gloria was the subject of article in the Portland Tribune honoring her contributions to the community. She received the Multnomah County McCoy award. It was acknowledged as well deserved. F. Bank of America Neighborhood Builders Grant – lore submitted a proposal for a Bank of America grant to fund the EPAP Civic Development + Engagement Subcommittee Safety Promoters series of workshops in 6 culturally + language specific communities. The grant provides $100,000 for each of two years and will be announced in October 2010. East Portland Neighbors Inc. served as the non-profit fiscal sponsor and the Coalition of Communities of Color provided the letter of endorsement. G. 122nd St. Pilot Project – Recommendations for the project will be announced at the May 27th 7 – 9 PM meeting at Ron Russell Middle School. H. Urban Renewal Area – lore announced that the EPAP team, assigned to review and make a recommendation related to the proposed Urban Renewal Area, were unable to come to consensus, so lore informed Carter Cummings that he was welcome to come back to the EPAP and request individual support. I. Marshall High School – Raymond Hites announced concerns about the closure of Marshall High School. Marshall is currently a Portland Public School District school that has a combination of 3 small learning communities. PPS is suggesting that Marshall not serve as one of the proposed “comprehensive neighborhood schools”. Lents Neighborhood Association would like to see the school be retained as a comprehensive neighborhood school. There is a meeting planned for Thursday from 6:30 – 8:30 PM to discuss this.

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Next meeting:

June 23, 2010 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM David Douglas School District Office, Board Room th 1500 SE 130 Ave. (at SE Market between Division and Stark)

We (usually) meet on the: 4th Wednesday of every month Dinner is provided. Childcare and interpretation are provided with reasonable notice.

12 of 32 CORE VALUES: The Riches (as recorded in EPAP plan)

• Community spirit and pride • Real, no‐nonsense people • Connection to nature and farming • Growing and sustained diversity • Location in the region • Supportive of families • Hardworking neighbors • Walkable neighborhoods • Passionate and involved residents • Untapped potential

Addition Comments (May26 EPAP meeting) • 40% of Portland’s school‐aged children • Wide rights‐of‐way • More bike paths than any other part of Portland • Natural beauty o Glendoveer Golf Course o Springrwater Trail o o Leach Botanical Gardens • East Portland Coalitions

13 of 32 EAST PORTLAND ACTION PLAN

Subcommittee Monthly Report The Subcommittee structure serves the operational functionality of the EPAP: Subcommittees will be established by consensus of the EPAP. Each Subcommittee must have one active person who is a participating member of the EPAP. Subcommittees will submit brief monthly reports to the EPAP Advocate one week prior to the monthly meeting. Below is a formatted report form.

Subcommittee Name: EPAPbike

EPAP Action item(s) being addressed: T.3 Increase safety and accessibility of bicycling in East Portland CB.1.4 Organize walking or biking tours throughout the neighborhood

Subcommittee Goal (succinctly stated): To provide direction and support to the EPAP on bike related issues & actions, & to make biking safer and more fun in East Portland.

Contact: [email protected] Websites: eastportlandactionplan.org/bike & EPAPbike.org (under development)

Subcommittee Meeting Date: May 20, 2010

New decisions made or issues being addressed: There was a review of the PBOT 2010/11 budget. It was noted that the $100,000 sidewalk study, the $50,000 East Portland Bike Master Plan, and the $75,000 crossing light at SE 122nd & Bush were funded as part of the approved Capital Improvement Program budget, while PBOT is applying though ODOT for the $100,000 crossing light at NE 128th & Glisan. In addition, PBOT intends to have new bicycle boulevards on the 128th/129th/130th corridor and the San Rafael/Sacramento corridor of East Portland for the 2011/12 planning cycle. The subcommittee discussed upcoming events, outreach, and planning efforts, including the East Portland Bicycle Master Plan & Sunday Parkways. EPAPbike plans to host a booth at both the EP & SE Sunday Parkways events, as well as the Breakfast on Burnside and Happy Hour on Burnside, May 21 & May 24. EPAPbike also discussed more aggressive strategies for recruiting new members, especially from outside of EPAP. Tom Barnes will develop a banner, folded business cards, and fliers. We’ll actively recruit during events. After some discussion on the length of the web site location name (eastportlandactionplan.org/bike), it was suggested that EPAPbike members donate money towards a shorter web domain name. EPAPbike passed a motion, 6-0, moved by Tom Barnes, seconded by Susan Dean, to have Walter Learch purchase the EPAPbike.org domain name url, which was aquired on May 21, 2010. Next meeting is Thursday, June 17, at Muchas Gracias, 1307 NE 102nd Ave, 6:30 pm, which will be chaired by Tom Barnes, as Dave will be out of town.

EPAPbike Outreach Events for May 2010: Planning Loop EPAP Bike Tour, Sat May 8, was lead by David Hampsten, 9:30 AM to noon, from Lincoln Park, SE Mill St at 135th Ave. 9 people attended, 5 from EPAP. We had sunny weather throughout Centennial, Glenfair, & Wilkes. GABA Mother’s Day Fun Ride, Sunday, May 9, 1:30-5:00 pm, 111th Square, NE 111th & Halsey. It was 3.4-mile loop through Hazelwood, Russell, & Parkrose Heights. 30 riders participated, incl 5 police cadets, 2 PBOT folks, 1 EPAP, & 5 children under 12. Commissioner Amanda Fritz was at the opening. 14 of 32 Breakfast on the Burnside Bridge at I-205, 6:30-8:30 AM, Friday, May 21. It was hosted by PBOT Transportation Options, ODOT, the Community Cycling Center, & EPAPbike. In spite of a temp of 46 degrees with constant rain, 43 bicyclists (& 1 unicycle) passed by between 6:30 & 8:30 am, most heading east to Gresham or north towards the airport. We saw 12 women and 31 men, most of whom were wearing helmets. About 20 stopped to chat, 15 to further take coffee, donuts, and/or orange juice, and 12 marked their origin & destination on a Metro Bike There map. Most came from far away, going far away, 10 miles for average commute each way. Collected contact info from 9 riders, gave out EPAP info to 15 riders. Happy Hour on the Burnside Bridge at I-205, 4:30-7:00 PM, Monday, May 24. PBOT Transportation Options, ODOT, the Friends of Trees, & EPAPbike hosted it. Cloudy with a temp of 60 degrees, 95 bicyclists (& 1 unicycle) passed by between 4:30 & 7:00 pm, most heading east to Gresham. We saw 19 women and 76 men, most of whom were wearing helmets. About 30 stopped to chat, 19 to further take cider, cheese & crackers, and/or orange juice, and 10 marked their origin & destination on a Metro Bike There map. Most came from far away, going far away, 11 miles for average commute each way. Collected contact info from 13 riders, gave out EPAP info to 17 riders.

Upcoming EPAPbike Outreach Events for 2010: - Art Along the I-205 MUP EPAP Bike Tour, Sat June 19, Jim Chasse (ride leader), 9:30 AM, , SE 104th & Bush St, at Memory Gardens. Enjoy innovative art at various stations along the Green Line while riding the I-205 MUP through the Powellhurst-Gilbert & Lents neighborhoods!

- East Portland Sunday Parkways, July 18.

- Parkrose Farmer's Market EPAP Bike Tour, Sat Aug 14, Katie Larsell (ride leader), 9:30 AM in the Parkrose Middle School parking lot (across the street from the Parkrose Farmers Market), 11800 NE Shaver. Take a loop ride to the Columbia River - then return to the market for music, lunch, & shopping!

- Volcano Geology EPAP Bike Tour, Sat Sept 18, Tom Barnes (ride organizer), 9:30 AM, Ed Benedict Park, SE 104th & Bush St, at Memory Gardens. A Rockin' Ride with a professional geologist, through the Powellhurst-Gilbert & Centennial neighborhoods!

- Sacred Spaces EPAP Bike Tour, Sat Oct 2, Brian Heron (ride leader), 9:30 AM, Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 12505 NE Halsey St. A spiritual experience of some of the sacred spaces of Russell, Parkrose Heights, Parkrose, Argay, & Wilkes neighborhoods!

Identification of this month’s project partners: Names of this month’s 6 active EPAPbike Subcommittee members: EPAP Members Susan Dean, Tom Barnes, & David Hampsten, Hazelwood neighbor Walt Lersch, Russell neighbor Gary Flood, Timo Forsberg of PBOT Options. Additional participating partners at events include PBOT, Portland Police, ODOT, the Community Cycling Center, GABA, Friends of Trees, & SHIFT, and over 175 local riders.

Request for input or action from the EPAP: No input or action at this time, this report is for information purposes only.

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EAST PORTLAND ACTION PLAN (EPAP)

CIVIC DEVELOPMENT SUBCOMMITTEE NOTES: MAY 1, 2010

MEETING ATTENDANCE: Frieda Christopher (David Douglas Natalya Sobolevskiy (Center for School District) Intercultural Organizing-CIO) Donita Fry (Native American Youth and Gloria Wiggins (Catholic Family Family Center + PYEC) Charities El Programa Hispano) Yolanda Morales (David Douglas parent) Lore Wintergreen (EPNO/EPAP) Michael J. Riedel (Deputy District Attorney Multnomah county Courthouse)

I. Welcome + Overview + Notes review: lore witnergreen, EPAP Advocate welcomed everyone, introductions were made, she gave an overview, and notes from the last meeting were circulated. A. Frieda mentioned the federal Promise Neighborhood grant that requires a 1-to-1 match and can bring $40,000,000 of federal $ over 5 years to the community. It is to address education issues cradle to adult. A letter of intent is due in June with the Request for Proposals to be released in 2011. Judith Bell, with Policy Link will hold a webinar. The Gateway Education Center will be considering this opportunity. B. The Center for Disease Control has awarded Multnomah County $7.5 million for “Communities Putting prevention to Work” 2- year project within Mult. Co. related to this grant. They are building relationships with community partners. C. Anna did a great presentation to City Council on behalf of the EPAP Civic Development/Engagement Subcommittee.

II. Gloria introduced Michael J. Riedel, Deputy District Attorney with Multnomah County Courthouse (503.988.3162 or [email protected] ) A. Gloria gave background about the relationship she developed with Multnomah County’s District Attorney Office. She met with Mult. Co. District Attorney Michael Schrunk about community questions and needs. This lead

16 of 32 to the relationship El Programa Hispano Safety Promoters now has with Deputy District Attorney Mike Riedel. B. Mike Riedel has been presenting prevention information on gun and gang prevention for 2.5 years. He is currently funded by Project Safe Neighborhoods for this service. He is excited to expand to additional communities in East Portland, but will need translation of materials and language interpretation. He has a PowerPoint presentation in English and Spanish that he can share. He is open to various days and times for presentations, but needs a least 1-week notification to build it into his schedule. C. Michael shares the following information during his session in the Safety Promoters curriculum: 1. When speaking with parents he provides information about Measure 11 and stresses the importance of parental involvement. 2. When speaking with youth, he provides information about Measure 11 and stresses the choices that youth make and lead to early risk behavior and how they can make responsible choices. 3. Measure 11designates mandatory sentencing for 24 crimes for people over the age of 15. These crimes include robbery and assault. a. Mike has volunteers act out/role play situations that can lead to Measure 11 violations (pushing someone down and taking their IPOD leads to 5 years for incarceration). 4. He explains how the system functions from arrest to release or sentencing and conviction. He addresses concerns and the roles that people play in the process. 5. In his experience, bringing parents and youth together has not worked well. Youth do not speak as freely or ask the questions that are on their minds. 6. Make can also incorporate information about the following topics: a. Judicial System summary b. How to talk to police when you call 911 c. Firearms d. Victims of Crimes 7. Multnomah County has the following materials available (these can be accessed on their website: a. Measure 11 brochure (English and Spanish), and additional information about Measure 11 in English. 8. Mike can bring a Portland Police Officer that will speak about the following: a. How to communicate with the Police b. What to do if stopped by the Police c. When to cal 911

17 of 32 d. How to report crimes e. Driving Under the Influence 1) Traveling with an open bottle of alcohol in a vehicle f. Traffic violations g. Youth driving III. Safety Promoters Curriculum: A. Gloria provided a copy of the Safety Promoters binder. 1. lore will see that copies are made for the next EPAP Civic Development Subcommittee. 2. Gloria will see if she has any additional materials in English. 3. Gang Awareness presentations have been done directly by El Programa Hispano staff. Lore looked into who can provide gang prevention information should your agency/group not have staff that deals directly with this issue: Sergeant John Scruggs – 503.823.4545 or [email protected]

IV. Next Steps: A. This meeting was acknowledged as very useful. It was decided that we should continue to bring the speakers appropriate to the workshop sessions, so as to build relationships and understanding of what they have to share.

NEXT MEETING:

JUNE 5, 2010 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon At the East Portland Neighborhood Office 1017 NE 117th Ave. (on 117th between Halsey + Glisan next to the watertower)

18 of 32 EAST PORTLAND ACTION PLAN Communication Sub-Committee Sub-Committee Monthly Report The Sub-Committee structure serves the operational functionality of the EPAP: Sub-Committees will be established by consensus of the EPAP. Each Sub-Committee must have one active person who is a participating member of the EPAP. Sub-Committees will submit brief monthly reports to the EPAP Advocate one week prior to the monthly meeting. Below is a formatted report form.

DATE: May 25, 2010

Sub-Committee Name: Communications

EPAP Action item(s) being addressed: EQ.3.Implement Actions in the East Portland Action Plan EQ.1Foster an equitable distribution of public resources for East Portland CB.5 Foster and market East Portland’s positive attributes CB.2 Empower and engage East Portland residents and businesses in civic decision- making processes

Sub-Committee Goal (succinctly stated): To provide Communication support (materials and web page development, translation/interpretation) to the EPAP and assist the group to effectively strategize and implement the East Portland Action Plan.

New decisions made or issues being addressed: 1. Karen will write an EPAP article for the EPNews. 2. lore gave a brief update on the EPAP website. We will be proceeding with the project to establish a web-based, self-reporting Action Item progress mechanism. 3. The abbreviated East Portland Action Plan will be translated into Russian and Spanish. 4. It may be possible to translate the brochure in some languages if we have a finalized version by June 14th. Karen will work with Kenny, the volunteer, to try to meet this deadline. 5. Amy Rose, Associate Transportation Planner with METRO, provided a presentation that included the following information (thank you Amy for the written document): EPAP notes – Amy Rose, Associate Transportation Planner – Metro – 5/25/10 Questions: Background 1. What is Metro’s role in helping develop the Gateway regional center?

19 of 32 Answer: Metro is a policy and regulatory agency. We set the long term vision for growth in the region and then instruct local governments to carry out that vision. Metro provided the process for designating centers like Gateway regional center; however the City of Portland determined the boundaries of the center. Metro’s 2040 Growth concept is the long range plan for managing growth in the region. The Urban Growth Management Functional plan sets the regulatory framework for centers and other regionally significant land use types. 2. What can Metro do to establish basic transportation, parks, and livability infrastructure now, and to respond to future growth? Answer: Metro through the 2040 Growth Concept and the Regional Transportation Plan call for local governments to develop their communities to include urban services of a certain level, however as mentioned in question 1, Metro really is only a policy and regulatory agency. Implementation is the responsibility of the cities and counties of the region. Primarily we do long range planning…so that means that most of what we do is intended to respond to future growth, but may not help facilitate immediate attention to areas that are further behind in their development. The City of Portland is responsible for making sure that East Portland is receiving the resources to become the livable community that Metro envisions. 3. Was East Portland’s substandard level of urban infrastructure or “community assets” a factor in the Chief Operating Officer’s recommendations? Answer: While I have no specific information about Michael Jordan’s recommendation being based in part on East Portland’s situation, I assume that the existence of inequities in East Portland as well as other disadvantaged communities throughout the region contributed to the recommendation. However, my interpretation about the recommendation is that it is based more on a shifting philosophy about how to invest very limited funding that is happening at the national and regional levels. New Money for infrastructure is limited and Metro and other regional agencies around the country are focusing on policies that encourage improving existing systems, rather than planning for and building new ones. See the Regional Infrastructure analysis for more information on the region’s attempts to understand deficiencies in the region (available on our website www.oregonmetro.gov).

General Questions 1. What does Metro do?

20 of 32 Answer: Metro serves 1.3 million people who live in Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties and the 25 cities in the Portland metropolitan area. The regional government provides transportation and land-use planning services and oversees regional garbage disposal and recycling and waste reduction programs.

Metro manages regional parks and greenspaces and owns the . It also oversees operation of the Oregon Convention Center, the Portland Center for the performing arts and the Portland Metropolitan Exposition Center.

Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)– federal designation that mandates we do a Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and Metropolitan Transportation Improvement Plan (MTIP). It gives us authority to allocate some federal funds in the region. JPACT is the decision making board for this MPO function 2. What amount of Regional Flexible Funds has been spent in East Portland? Answer: Currently Metro does not have a sufficient means of tracking funds for areas such as East Portland. We are in the process of developing a database that can help us do this to a better degree. 3. Has the City tried to get funding for projects in East Portland?

Answer: Yes I-205 Light Rail – Green line 102nd Avenue – boulevard/ streetscape project Powell – Foster Corridor Plan – planning work to refine project need and scope for transportation improvements in the area. Foster – Woodstock: 87th to 101st – pedestrian and bike improvements Gateway Regional Center – Transit Oriented Development project – constructed Oregon Clinic Building at transit center 4. What are the criteria used for selecting RFFA projects? Answer: The criteria change every cycle depending on the policy update….direction from JPACT on how to invest the funds. We are currently in the process of the policy update for the next cycle. We most likely won’t be developing a great number of criteria upfront for this cycle…instead we are asking for more direction from JPACT and strategic narrowing. Also, we won’t be engaging in a competitive application process this cycle and will instead take JPACT direction and work with local agencies and stakeholders to develop projects based that meet the outcomes and policies set by JPACT. We will be looking more closely at Environmental Justice and underserved populations in this cycle and will be engaging groups that work on behalf of EJ and underserved communities.

21 of 32 5. What East Portland projects are in the RTP? Answer: see RTP list 6. Who are the members on JPACT and TPAC? Answer: see rosters and decision making handout. 7. How are TIGER grants selected? Answer: TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) This is a federal discretionary pot of funds that are part of the American recovery and reinvestment act. There is a list of criteria on the United States Department of Transportation website.

6. Amy also brought us copies of the following documents: A. 2010-13 Regional Flexible Fund Allocation Fact Sheet B. Regional flexible fund allocations 2008 – 2011 C. The Nature of 2040 (The region’s 50-year plan for managing growth) D. Regional Transportation – The decision-making process E. Federal and state capital investments in the Portland metropolitan area F. DRAFT Calendar 2014-15 Regional Flexible Fund Allocation (RFFA) G. 2010 TPAC Members and Alternates H. 2010 JPAC Members and Alternates I. Metropolitan Transportation Improvement Program Portland Metro Area Federal Fiscal Years 2008 through 2011 J. 2035 Regional Transportation Plan Final draft plan March

Identification of project partners (attendees/outreach): Karen Gray, Katie Larsell, Amie Diffenauer, Amy Rose, and lore wintergreen.

Request for input or action from the EPAP: None, yet.

22 of 32 EC DEV SUBCOMMITTEE 05/03/10 Present - Nick S, Larry K, Marie D, Jean D, Mark W,Carter C (Madison South NA), Jeff M(IRCO), David H, Troy W, Mark W Meeting Time New meeting time is 5-6:30 Chair Updates Gateway PAC - would like to see an expansion of Gateway URA PDC Comm Ec Dev, first meeting is Thursday, May 6th, from 3-5 Upcoming Event Economic opportunities forum with Mayor Adams on May 10 at 9:30 a.m. at Leander Court. NOTE: Rose CDC is having a planning meeting on Wednesday, the 5th, at Rose’s offices; Some points to make: Ask PDC to promote East PDX in a quantifiable way Solidify First Source Agreements for projects in East PDX Coordinate efforts Look at rezoning to promote the type of employment & services we’re looking for; we’re looking for more balance between different types of zoning; we’d like the zoning reviewed neighborhood by neighborhood - which neighborhoods are most interested in zoning? Parkrose, Argay, Glenfair- Centiennial, and Powelhurst-Gilbert; can we tie this into our request for an economic development strategy? Maybe they can do assessments & strategies for these neighborhoods as a pilot?

David will contact Richard Bixby @ EPNO and find out where the neighborhoods stand on this issue Recruiting Businesses What is PDC doing? Are they showing East PDX to businesses? How can we help PDC promote east pdx as a viable option? What are our assets? Larry will ask Chris S if she’ll talk to Corky Collier and see if he’ll come to one of our upcoming meetings; Marie will check with Justin Douglas (PDC) and see if we can get someone from the Port of Portland to come talk to us

23 of 32 Continuation of collaborative prioritization East Portland Economic Development Plan (16 votes)

Nick is the champion for this action - Develop an advocacy timeline to get our current budget requests through; 1. do we have our 3 votes? Who can we meet with and how soon? Set meetings with all four commissioners - Mark will contact Amanda, Nick will contact Dan S, Jean will contact Nick F, and Larry will contact Randy L 2. Use the EPAP talking points that Lore put together 3. Check with Communications committee before moving forward? Larry will talk to Karen & ask for suggestions on how to best present our points 4. People with action items to report back to the committee by 05/10/10 What’s our back up plan if the City doesn’t fund this project?

David is the champion for this action, Mark as backup & resource o Approach PSU students again - maybe do it neighborhood by neighborhood? Should we approach them regardless of what the City does? What is the story we want to tell them? What’s in it for them? It’s a mess - many many things need to be fixed; lots of children, incredible diversity; tremendous poverty They’ve already done a number of projects in East PDX; several neighborhoods have plans that were developed by students o Ask the Mayor to instruct PDC to do it Marketing to general public; enhance East Portland “brand”

Larry is champion for this action; Rose did a shopping mall survey in Lents - Nick will send this around so we can see the results; it cost a small amount of money for an independent company to do it What do other parts of the city think about East PDX? Can we do a survey like the one Rose did? Possible that we could write a small grant for the next EPAP grant cycle? Research what other communities have done to market themselves How can we get residents & businesses to think about & promote themselves differently? Can we do this without the Ec Dev plan in place? How much of this should be the Communication subcommittee’s responsibility? Mark is working with Portland YouthBuilders to develop a video showing off the good aspects of East PDX; he will make this available to EPAP for promotion

24 of 32 Support existing businesses

Marie & Troy are champions for this action; put together a business organization outreach strategy Contact Galadriel & ask her to email the APNBA list about the meeting with the Mayor Contact the East PDX Chamber about the meeting with the Mayor Troy will send Marie his list of organizations Next Meeting June 7th, 2010 Change of venue for June only: June’s meeting is at Rose’s office at 4620 SE 122nd (Leander Court)

25 of 32 EAST PORTLAND ACTION PLAN Structures Sub-Committee Monthly Report The Sub-Committee structure serves the operational functionality of the EPAP: Sub-Committees will be established by consensus of the EPAP. Each Sub-Committee must have one active person who is a participating member of the EPAP. Sub-Committees will submit brief monthly reports to the EPAP Advocate one week prior to the monthly meeting. Below is a formatted report form.

Date: 05.19.10

EPAP Action item(s) being addressed: EQ.3.a Create an ongoing group to monitor EPAP progress and advocate for action Sub-Committee Goal (succinctly stated): To support the operations of the EPAP

New decisions made or issues being addressed: 1. Since the meeting has moved to an off-site location, there is need to have someone set-up and someone to pick-up food (simultaneous timelines). ACTION: A. Bob will ask EPAP to raise their hands if having dinner as opposed to snacks at the meeting is supportive of their attendance and attention. B. If people raise their hands, Bob will explain the above situation. He will ask if people who are able and willing to pick-up the dinner from one location and arrive at the monthly meeting between 6:00 and 6:15 PM (understanding that it will be fully paid for and that they will receive a reminder including a list of the food to be picked-up), would please sign the green sheet now being circulated. The more people who sign-up, the fewer times people will be asked to do this and you get to choose the food vender the week you are doing pick-up.

2. There is need to establish either a meeting note taker or host, as lore can not effectively provide both functions simultaneously. ACTION: Bob will explain the above situation and ask people to sign the pink sheet who are willing to serve as meeting host. The more people who sign-up, the less frequently any one person will need to host. This will require the following: A. Arrive by 6:20 PM B. Greet people arriving late warmly, and 1) Make sure that people sign-in, pick-up their table tent or make one, and get the essential handouts, 2) Welcome people to get food, 3) Explain where we are in the agenda,

26 of 32 4) Encourage people to find a seat as close in as possible (providing a suggestion)

3. We agreed to extend the meeting for 30 minutes to provide orientation for new members. We have to be out of the building by 10:00 PM. Lore cannot lead the orientation and pack-up within the required timeline (She usually gets out just in time). How do we want to handle this? ACTION: Bob will ask people who are willing to provide orientation for new members to sign the yellow sheet. The more people who sign-up, the less frequently any one person will do this. A. lore will meet with those willing to provide the orientation for a train-the-trainer session (2- hours maximum). B. Materials will be provided (Structures document will serve as guide, EPAP Core Values, Committees & Representatives).

4. Mike would like to talk about utilization of "clickers". It was determined that this could have broad ramifications for the EPAP (consensus vs. majority rules), but that their may be instances when they would be a helpful and creative solution (e.g. priority setting). We had a long discussion about the downside of consensus being people who do not speak-up. ACTION: It was agreed that Structures members will assist the meeting facilitators by serving as ‘feelings watchers’. If we see or hear that people are not expressing themselves to the full group verbally, we will speak-up and, without targeting an individual, suggest that perhaps people need to discuss something further, or might have more questions.

5. Structures document recommendations were reviewed. ACTION: Finalization of the changes were approved. We changed the name of this Committee and the document to ‘Structures’.

Identification of project partners (those in attendance): Bob Earnest, Arlene Kimura, Mike VanderVeen, lore wintergreen

Request for input or action from the EPAP: See ACTION: 1 – 3 above.

27 of 32 EPAP YOUTH SUBCOMMITTEE MEETING

MAY 20, 2010 Present: Nancy (Mult Co), Rocio (Parkrose HS), Marie (Me Out Loud), Lizzie (Zenger Farms), Sarah (Zenger Farms), Faith (East PDX Comm Ctr), Libby (observer from Floyd Light), Rebecca (observer from Floyd Light) Announcements Zenger Farm (Lizzie & Sarah, from Caitlin Gable) - report on the youth aspect of the plan for their new property; youth tend to talk more about what they want, older adults focus on where they do and don’t want things; lots of interest in community ovens (cobb ovens); both Lizzie & Sarah are part of CG’s urban planning class & Zenger is their project; they are going to present their design ideas to Zenger in a joint presentation with PSU students, on June 1st - they would like feedback from our committee on their design before the present.

NOTE: Faith is scheduling presentation time for them on Friday, May 28th, at 3:30 to present their plan Photovoice Project presentation @ Zenger on June 3rd, from 9-10:30 a.m. Contact Kris Bella at [email protected] East Portland Community Coalition has moved to quarterly meetings, June 3rd will be the next meeting, also contact Kris Bella for details Looking for a youth member for the Gateway Green citizen’s advisory committee - Marie will forward Justin’s email to Lizzie, Sarah, Rocio, Faith, and Nancy to send onward Meeting with Commissioner Saltzman on June 4th at 11:00 a.m. 2010 Youth Summit for Youth Service Providers - Faith will email the flyer out to the larger group Meeting w Mayor’s Staff Rocio - we talked about what youth are looking for including after school activities, internships, sex ed, another community center, the DREAM Act Marie- complete success with regard to youth advocating, being heard by Todd & Reese Faith - impressed that the staffers took time out to listen to youth; both staffers were knowledgeable and listened well; feel like they left having heard the youth voice Project Report

28 of 32 Nancy - continuing to work with various anti-drug coalitions in the region; variety of projects to help keep people safe during parties after prom; trying to get position statements from candidates for governor on issues pertaining to drug use for youth & families Group Priorities Develop a youth advocacy group Possible community assessment? East Portland Comm Coalition was interested in doing this - can we get youth involved? From a drug prevention perspective, good strategy to get youth involved in activities & their communities Where is the mayor’s office collecting their information on youth projects - are they actually working with youth groups (MYC?) or just older adults? Possibly forming two branches - one focused on service providers and their projects, one focused on developing a group of youth advocates for East Portland

29 of 32 Proposal to the East Portland Action Plan – Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) Representative

EPAP started with a question. How would you improve East Portland? That is the asset based approach to community work.

I’m a neighbor and founding member of EPAP. I’m deeply engaged in advocating for the use of an asset based community development approach to doing community work. Indeed ABCD is why I’m at the EPAP table.

There is a growing number of people and organizations in East Portland that are using the asset based community development approach to work they do in the community. I’d like this growing group to be tied to the EPAP. So I see my potential role as ABCD representative as one of a bridge to connect these folks to the EPAP.

I also see the role of representative as a step towards a subcommittee that will both be a resource for other subcommittees (since the majority of actions in the plan could be accomplished using an ABCD approach) and an action group potentially taking on any one or all of the following actions:

CB.1 Increase interaction among cultural communities and geographic neighborhoods - CB.1.5 Provide full/additional resources for community organizing efforts that support ongoing community building and development work (including community small grants program).

CB.2 Empower and engage East Portland residents and businesses in civic decision-making processes - CB.2.1 Build ongoing East Portland Action Plan advocacy group to sustain action plan efforts over time.

CB.3 Involve East Portland residents in community projects and building community identity - CB.3.1 Develop survey instruments and tools for community conversations. - CB.3.2 Establish a “listening post” or information center at existing community-based events. - CB.3.3 Initiate “community conversations” at community forums and with existing groups to lay the foundation for community identity.

CB.6 Strengthen and increase participation in neighborhood associations - CB.6.2 Develop and implement outreach program to residents typically underrepresented in East Portland neighborhood associations: renters, youth, disabled, diverse race and ethnicities, etc.

PRINCIPLE 3. BUILD ON COMMUNITY ASSETS AND CONNECTIONS

Community Assets. East Portland has many assets including a wide array of housing, a range of employment opportunities, diverse school choices and distinct community pride. In particular, the area has a special focus on families and cultural diversity that other areas are trying to create. The Action Plan seeks to tap into these assets and promote them to the region.

Linkages and Connections. The Action Plan recognizes linkages between issues, such as the impact of development on schools and the connection between workforce training and the ability for local businesses to attract qualified employees. The concept of connections between people and partners is another 30 of 32 important aspect of the Action Plan. In support of this, an entire subcategory of the Action Plan is devoted to Community Building to improve interaction among communities, empower residents, strengthen East Portland’s identity and develop places where people can gather.

Taking the time to consider the approach: ABCD Trainings

Folks from the following organization have already participated in local ABCD trainings growing a realistic vision for their role in transforming their community:

- Americans Building Community, - Centennial Community Association, - Children's Justice Alliance, - Compassion Connect, - Cully Collective Market, - East Portland Action Plan, - East Portland Community Coalition, - East Portland Neighbors, Inc., - East Portland Neighborhood Office, - Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon, - Free Arts NW, - Glenfair Neighborhood Association, - Greater Gresham Area Prevention Partnership, - Growing Gardens, - Hazelwood Neighborhood Association, - Human Solutions CDC, - Imago Dei Community, - Imagine NW!, - Lents-Gilbert Church of God, - Lents Neighborhood Association, - Multnomah County Health Services, - Multnomah County Office of Commissioners McKeel and Wheeler, - Multnomah University, - Native American Youth Association, - NW Behavioral Health Services, - Open Arms Seventh Day Adventist Church, - Our United Villages, - Parklane Church, - Portland Office of Neighborhood Involvement, - Powellhurst Gilbert Neighborhood Association, - PSU Center for Academic Excellence, - ROSE CDC, - Second Stories, - Southeast Uplift, - St. Johns Neighborhood Association, - St. Timothy Lutheran Church, - The Table, - Valley View Church, and more!

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Six strategies that spring from 12 ABCD guiding principles are covered in the introductory training:

1. Finding Assets/Gifts – (learning to look at people and neighborhoods as half-full, discerning the personal gifts and collective assets within)

2. Uncovering What People Care about Enough to Act – (looks at how to engage in listening and learning conversations which reveal dreams and concerns that motivate people toward action)

3. Mobilizing Groups to Act – (what's next after discovering common interests? How do we create opportunities to work together?)

4. Discovering Distinct Roles for People and Programs – (individuals, grassroots associations, agencies, and institutions each have strengths and weaknesses, here we discover what they are and how to strive for balancing the best elements)

5. Leading by Stepping Back – (helps organizations, churches, agencies to lead from a posture of humility, empowering others toward their own solutions, ideas and projects)

6. Inclusion – (emphasizes the common, inclusive nature of community partnerships; in ABCD work all stakeholders are welcome. How do we make space for all?

Mike Vander Veen ABCD Advocate AmeriCorps Member East Portland Neighborhood Office 503-810-8269

ABCD = asset-based community development http://www.mike-green.org/essence_of_abcd.php This approach to community work calls for the engagement of the gifts and resources of the whole community and recognizes that when people are intentional about relationship and use their abilities and talents together, life gets better. http://www.abcdinstitute.org/

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