Community service-providers abound at outer East Portland ‘Fair’

You’ll be amazed at how much people learn at the ‘Learn-Share-Do Fair’, held in Hazelwood …

Here in the Hazelwood neighborhood, next to the East Portland Community Center, folks are arriving to learn helpful information – and to have fun – at their “Learn. Share. Do. Fair – PDX.”

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

Floyd Light Middle School was the place, and Saturday, May 31, was the time, for a unique event named “Learn. Share. Do. Fair – PDX.”

Over the event’s four hours, people and families from outer East Portland were invited to participate in activities, to obtain resources, and to be inspired to live better and healthier lives.

Welcoming people to the fair are Community Services Network Multnomah Outreach Coordinator Marin Ricketson, and Community Health & Engagement Specialist Berryl Omollo.

“This event’s name may be new to some, but this is a ‘community resource fair’ organized by the Community Services Network (CSN) which provides all sorts of fun and informative activities,” said CSN Multnomah Outreach Coordinator Marin Ricketson.

“Today, we’re featuring about 50 ‘table hosts’, representing nonprofit organizations and government agencies,” Ricketson explained. “It’s a spot where people can get all of their needs met, and have a good time!”

Inside the Floyd Light Middle School Cafetorium, tablers help guests learn a wide variety of practical tips on many topics.

Assisting at the Free Food Pantry table is volunteer Amand Cilek.

By midday, more than 200 people had already come by to explore the exhibitor tables offering practical tips on topics like:

Preparing for extreme heat and emergencies
Saving energy and lowering utility bills
Caring for trees, plants, and gardens
Exploring transportation options

“And, we’re also holding a ‘Bicycle Rodeo’ to teach safe riding skills, and to provide bike helmets,” Ricketson told East Portland News.

Multnomah County Master Gardener Mary Himley shares with a guest tips about successfully growing vegetables.

University of Western States Naturopathic Medicine student Ashley Wilfong measures the blood pressure of a young participant.

“The best thing that can come out of this fair is just seeing families having a good time while they connect with resources they need, and maybe did not know that we’re out there,” Ricketson concluded.

Look for their next fair; you’ll see it posted in East Portland’s most complete Community Calendar: CLICK HERE to open that webpage.

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