Every business, every organization, and yes— every person— has a story.

How a business develops and the role it fills in a market and community truly fascinate me. The amount of time, trouble, and resources that goes into building a small business almost always means it’s more then just about making money.

When I was out one day talking to people about the platform, I stopped into a thrift store to look around. Most of my clothes come from thrift stores— I reusing clothing makes sense ethically, and I prefer one-of-a-kind pieces that often surprise and delight.

After a short conversation with the very friendly and helpful fella behind the counter, I knew PNW Adult & Teen Challenge’s Resale and Donation Center on 82nd Ave would make a good feature. It’s a fascinating mix of business and community service that offers a new perspective on how society sees recovery and getting people back into productive lives.

On Village Portland @ Montavilla, we featured Fressen Artisan Bakery and Cafe— it’s a really cool place, and a great example of the intersection of small business, culture, and community.

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Mural Workshop with PSAA (event):

The BDNA will be hosting the Portland Street Art Alliance (PSAA) during its all committees meeting on May 21st, 7 pm.

“PSAA will provide an overview of the mural commissioning process and City’s mural permitting process as well as highlighting projects from their three main programming areas: engagement, education, and empowerment.”

The PSAA helps pairs business owners with willing artists and are responsible for many wonderful murals throughout Portland.

Brentwood-Darlington Community Center, 7211 SE 62nd Ave * May 21st, 7 pm

SATURDAY, MAY 18TH

5k Series Fun Run at Lents Park (event):

Fun run… 5 kilometers is just over three miles for those interested. Walkers are welcome.

Lents Park, 4808 SE 92nd Ave * $10, youth under 17 free

Nature Fair 2019 (event):

Play games, work with plants, mask making, and pet goats, chickens, birds, and slug, ice cream, and hikes.

Music from: Possum 6-Pack & The Marian Street Ramblers

Leach Garden, 6704 SE 122nd Ave, Far East Meadow * 10 am – 2 am * free

SUNDAY, MAY 19TH

Sunday Parkways Southeast (event):

To encourage bicycling and non-motorized transportation, the City shuts down a ring of streets several Sundays a year, with booths, bands, and other interesting events.

“This route will explore the neighborhood greenways of Ankeny, Clinton, Lincoln, Salmon, Taylor streets and more. While you’re at it, don’t forget to dance, grab a bite to eat and learn something new.”

Southeast Portland * 11 am – 4 pm

Oregon Sinfonietta concert (event):

“The award-winning Oregon Sinfonietta, now in its 46th season and conducted by Dr. Donald L. Appert, is a full symphony orchestra of about sixty musicians that draws together community musicians from the greater Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, Washington metropolitan area.”

Sunnyside Seventh-day Adventist Church, 10501 SE Market St * 3 pm * free