DESERVES

Thought & Responsibility

If we must do it anyway let’s enjoy doing it. This year we’re focusing on local perspective by telling our story through the POV of those who are here and have been here.

#YOUSHOULDBEHERE

Dear Portland,

I am incredibly excited anticipating what we have in store for this year. We excelled in the organization, communication and key elements of our organizations ground work in 2023. My deepest desire is to enhance our everyday experiences by fostering places to gather while maintaining high standards for ACCESSIBILITY FOR ALL. Our in-person experiences this year will highlight some of Portland’s most unique buildings, businesses and locals. Our top priorities this year are nurturing relationships, providing resources that will scale independent businesses and maintaining consistency in our deliverables. There is nothing ” small ” about our businesses that take BIG shoes to fill, a ton of determination and unwavering commitment. We have families, personal lives and stories that communicate our ” why ” which started way before a registration date. I can assure you that my efforts, my contributors efforts and my intentions are to provide opportunities that will in return contribute to our well-being as a community. Our 2024 goal is to provide 1,333 placements for Artists ( all mediums ) and Creative Entrepreneurs who produce original work.

As of January 2024 we have secured 9 partnerships with ( 3 ) Oregonian founded non-profits, ( 5 ) Oregonian Founded Businesses with Founders born and raised in Portland, OR. Our eldest business partner has been in business since 1932 and youngest established in 2022. You will soon hear more about our 2024 contributors and neighbors within this month.

Looking forward to meeting you!

Lauren Lesueur, Founder ODE