Holiday Message from Mayor Tom Potter

Office of Mayor Tom Potter, City of Portland

Seasons greetings! On behalf of the City of Portland, I extend to you my best wishes during this holiday season. For many of us, the end of the year is a time of reflection as we consider resolutions for the coming year. A great resolution is to volunteer in the community. Here are a few opportunities to get more involved that I hope you will consider in 2006.

Project Homeless Connect

In September, Portlanders mobilized by the thousands to help the survivors of Hurricane Katrina. Now we are calling upon this same spirit of giving and compassion to help those in need of assistance here in Portland. On January 17th, Commissioner Sten and I are co-hosting an event with Multnomah County Commissioner Serena Cruz Walsh called Project Homeless Connect. This all-day event is an opportunity to directly help Portland's homeless gain immediate access to services, including much-needed medical, dental, legal, addiction and housing-counseling. Please consider volunteering your time by visiting www.portlandhomelessconnect.com and remember to generously support local organizations helping people get into housing.

Community Vision Project

Nearly 15 years have passed since the City and community last engaged in a "big picture" look at the future of Portland. With your help, the Community Vision Project is already working to develop a shared vision for all Portlanders. In 2006, we will be actively looking for your ideas, creativity and involvement in the process. Visit http://www.portlandonline.com/mayor/index.cfm?c=39149 to get involved, learn about a grant opportunity and stay updated on project happenings.

Citizen Budget Advisory Board

City Council is asking for your help in making sure every dollar is spent as wisely as possible. We are currently seeking five citizens to serve on the City of Portland's Citizen Budget Advisory Board. Selected volunteers will participate in budget deliberations with Council, advising us on spending priorities, budget and services. Finalists will be selected for confirmation by the beginning of January. Please visit www.portlandonline.com/communitybudget to learn more about this opportunity and apply.

Other volunteer opportunities

There are also many other opportunities to get involved and volunteer in the community, including your local neighborhood association, and our various City boards and commissions. To find out more, visit the Office of Neighborhood Involvement website: http://www.portlandonline.com/oni/index.cfm?c=37423.

Citizen involvement is the key to building a strong community. Please consider lending some of your own time to one of these opportunities, and share them with people you know. Thank you all for making Portland such a great city.

Sincerely,

Tom Potter, Mayor

Carmen Caballero Rubio
Director of Community Affairs
Office of Mayor Tom Potter
1221 SW 4th Avenue, Suite 340
Portland, Oregon 97204
Ph (503) 823-3578