Story by Abby Warren

On the evening of Tuesday, August 28th, the area outside the World Forestry Center was transformed into a venue for celebration. Under a white canopy, cheerfully decorated tables boasted centerpieces of vibrant fruits and colorful balloons. Summer hats bobbed about the crow. The perfect setting for Lift Urban Portland's first-annual Garden Party fundraiser.

Commissioner Fish was honored to give the Key Note address, which focused on how Lift's important work plays into the local and national community gardening movement. Nick was pleased to join other prominent community leaders at the event, including past Oregon Art Beat contributor K.C. Cowan, Lift President, Fred Jeibmann, and Lift's Executive Director, Delanie Delimont.

The fundraiser supported Lift's community gardens program; as well as other food-security functions- including a food pantry, a Loaves & Fishes site, and Food for Kids Backpacks program.

Lift hosts 35 gardening plots in the City, at the White Shield Center and First Emanuel Lutheran Church. Residents at each site work with volunteers from the faith, nonprofit and business communities to maintain gardens throughout the year. The gardens then supplement existing food options with fresh, organic produce.

Lift volunteers tell remarkable stories about saving money by lowering their insulin intake, recovering from disabiling diabetes ailments, promising weight loss achievements, and above all a sense of purpose and belonging.

Read more about Lift Urban Portland's mission on their website.