Portland Parks Foundation

Mission

The Portland Parks Foundation mobilizes support to improve Portland’s system of parks, natural areas, and public spaces.  

We believe in the power of these places to strengthen communities, address historic inequities, and create a sense of belonging for everyone in Portland.  

We seek transformational change by listening to communities and rally resources and opportunities to help realize their vision.  

We collaborate with individuals, community groups, organizations, and institutions to develop long-term, sustainable improvements to the livability and beauty of our city.  

We work to create the broadest possible access to recreation, creativity, education, and play in our parks and open spaces.  

We help people help parks. 

Bottom Line for Portland

Portland Parks Foundation is the only nonprofit providing resources and support for parks projects throughout the entire city. That's more than 200 parks, playgrounds, and related programs so far! Each year, we work with more than 100 grassroots and community-led groups to make Portland's parks dreams come true. 

People flourish with thriving parks and Portland Parks Foundation helps Portland communities create more equitable access to nature, play, health, and places of connection. 

Quote

“There are all kinds of of small groups that really depend on Portland Parks Foundation. They make it possible to do the work. When people contribute to Portland Parks Foundation, they're helping groups like mine—but they're also helping themselves, because most Oregonians, most Portlanders enjoy the parks.” Pamela Slaughter, Founder & Executive Director of People of Color Outdoors and recipient of Portland Parks Foundation's 2022 Joey Pope Award for Parks Leadership 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Portland Parks Foundation works with, and for, everyone. We believe vibrant parks, public spaces, and natural areas are essential to the public, civic and cultural health of all. That’s why we prioritize projects that engage marginalized groups too long denied meaningful roles in shaping our city, and centers those voices in organizing our work. Our awards, grants, and events are managed by committees that are typically BIPOC-centric and/or BIPOC-led, with participants compensated for their involvement.

Incentives

Every donor will receive a coupon for a discount at the Hoyt Arboretum Visitor Center.

Every donor will receive a pass to access the Columbia Sportswear Employee Store.

December 11-15 make a gift of $25 or more and be entered to receive a gift basket from Kindred Homestead Supply.

December 18-23rd make a gift to PPF and People of Color Outdoors and be entered to receive a gift basket from Steven Smith Teamaker and a titanium cookware set from Snow Peak.

December 30 make a gift of $25 or more and have two chances to win a Columbia Sportswear backpack

Donors will also have opportunities to win parks posters and Pendleton blankets directly from Portland Parks Foundation.

Partner(s)

In addition to our incentive partners, we are working with our fellow Give!Guide nonprofits Friends of Noise, Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon, and People of Color Outdoors to promote and celebrate each other's campaigns.