Every year we shine a spotlight on the local organizations and individuals working to make Portland and Oregon better for everyone. This year, three big themes emerged—racial justice, climate change, and responding to the pandemic—along with many great nonprofits and people working on them. Looking for ways to move the dial? Start here.

In This Feature:

From Resource Base to Full-Fledged Nonprofit, the Portland Student Community Response Is Making Moves

A year in, the student-led nonprofit continues to evolve. Its latest tool: a vaccine text line.

04/21/2021 By Gabriel Granillo

How 4 Nonprofits Stepped Up in the Pandemic

Vaccine clinics, mental health hotlines, hot meals, business support—these groups got help to those who most needed it.

11/30/2021 By Julia Silverman and Margaret Seiler

Next Up's New Executive Director Breaks the Cycle

Elona J. Wilson talks about her path to leading the youth voting organization.

11/30/2021 By Hanna Merzbach

4 Organizations Fighting for Equity throughout Oregon

Unite Oregon, Equitable Giving Circle, Brown Hope, and Don't Shoot Portland are training leaders and providing direct aid with racial justice at the fore.

11/30/2021 By Karly Quadros and Conner Reed

4 Local Nonprofits Working on Environmental Issues

From salmon to stewardship to wildfire repair and more, these organizations are putting our planetary health front and center.

11/30/2021 By Cami Hughes and Gabriel Granillo

Portland Monthly

Light a Fire 2021