As the Portland area has grown in population over the past decade, it has also grown in ethnic diversity. Newcomers to Portland from diverse backgrounds, just like people from diverse backgrounds who have lived here for generations, find no established way to gain a seat at the civic leadership table. Interested leaders do not know of leadership opportunities. In other cases, economic, cultural, ethnic, and other barriers prevent diverse leaders from participating. At the same time, nonprofit organizations, commissions and other public-serving organizations struggle to attract diverse leaders. These organizations often look within for leadership and lack networks from which to attract diverse leaders. The end result is that civic problems and decision-making are deprived of diverse leadership talent and perspectives.

Civic Leaders provides a solution to this community need. Civic Leaders is creating a sustainable system whereby leaders of all backgrounds, cultures and experiences gain access to leadership opportunities with nonprofit, government and corporate Boards and Commissions.

Partners
Civic Leaders is a program of Partners In Diversity and managed by Hands On Greater Portland and the Institute for Nonprofit Management at Portland State University, advised by a community leadership team. Funding has been provided through a Helping Hands grant from the United Way of the Columbia-Willamette.  
 

Community Advisers

For more information
Please email Brenden Butler or call him at (503) 413-6413.