Our 42nd Avenue Connects People to Portland

The city of Portland, Oregon, has become known for its unique, vibrant culture – and it’s local-minded organizations like Our 42^nd Avenue that keep the culture lively. Spanning a bustling neighborhood in northeast Portland, Our 42^nd Avenue works to support local businesses and community members, helping them feel connected to their community. Beyond a good feeling, Our 42^nd Avenue gives its community important, visible results.

Our 42^nd Avenue’s work reflects the culture of the local community through and through. In fact, the façade of its office on – of course – 42^nd Avenue is adorned with a colorful mural of Jackie Robinson, who wore the number 42 during his groundbreaking baseball career. The diversity and progress that characterized Robinson’s baseball career also guide Our 42^nd Avenue in its work to support Portland’s local businesses and residents. For instance, the organization offers various grant programs for local businesses, often prioritizing women- and minority-owned businesses for funding. Through grants, local businesses and community programs can deepen their roots in the Portland community.

The work of Our 42^nd Avenue also keeps the community moving forward – even if that means moving a little slower. Last year, the organization campaigned on behalf of local businesses and community members in its neighborhood for a lower speed limit along its namesake street. In January, Our 42^nd Avenue announced that the speed limit had been officially reduced to 25 miles per hour, creating a safer experience for pedestrians in the walkable district. Local businesses and parks line the busy street, and the lower speed limit reflects the foot-traffic-friendly environment.

Still, slower traffic does not mean a less active community. Our 42^nd Avenue also recently opened a collaborative project called (com)motion, a multicultural movement studio. (com)motion strives to reflect the diversity of the community with classes in yoga, tai chi, capoeira, African dance and more. Through (com)motion, Our 42^nd Avenue and its local partners connect people to the Portland community through motion.

From community business grants to community movement, Our 42^nd Avenue supports its Portland neighborhood with activism and initiatives that deliver visible results and an intangible connection to the community. For more information, visit www.42ave.org.