ROSE highlights work, at summertime backyard BBQ

Here’s an interesting way of making new friends – and raising funds …

Folks gather in the comfort of a lush backyard setting to meet one another, and to learn more about the work of ROSE Community Development Corporation.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A backyard barbecue party in the Mt. Scott-Arleta neighborhood on August 23 provided all of the amenities one would expect at a summertime fête – cheeseburgers hot off the grill, salads, and cold refreshments. But it was also presented as a learning opportunity.

“This afternoon, guests will also have the chance to learn more about the work of ROSE Community Development Corporation, and its outer Southeast Portland neighborhoods,” said Board Member Roger Anthony.

“In addition to meeting other big-hearted neighbors,” Anthony explained, “events like these help us raise funds to transform some of Portland’s most under-served neighborhoods.”

The barbecue chef for the event – Kristian Hochreiter, Development Associate at ROSE CDC – offers up another sizzling cheeseburger.

Hosts Marcel Hermans and Regan Ransom-Hermans meet one of the guests, Beth Raisman.

At his home on SE Raymond Court, host and former ROSE Board Member Marcel Hermans welcomed guests to his backyard paradise.

“One the things ROSE does is provide affordable housing,” Hermans told East Portland News. “This helps keep the neighborhoods diverse. ROSE provides high quality housing, and also programs for children and residents. They do a lot beyond simply providing a place to live.”

Guests learn about the work ROSE CDC is doing to revitalize the area, and how they can help.

Because of the good he’s seen the organization do, Hermans said, he was happy to continue the tradition of “house parties” held on behalf of ROSE, to supplement their other major events.

To learn more about ROSE – including how to attend their upcoming “Healthy Neighborhoods in Bloom” Donor Breakfast on September 25, at the Oregon Zoo – CLICK HERE.

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