OUR THEME FOR 2023: WHAT IS THE MEANING OF “HOME?”

CREATING SPACE IN PORTLAND TO GRIEVE AND HONOR THE COMPLEXITY OF LOSS

by ANNA LUECK

Laura Green, 48, leads the Portland Grief House, a place for community members to process their losses collectively through activities such as art and yoga. At the same time, Green is processing her own loss — she recently lost her mother, who lived in the house, and is now reconsidering how to continue to build a home for others in a space now marked by her own grief.

FINDING HOME IN THE LEGACY OF A BELOVED INDIGENOUS MUSICIAN

by NORA COLIE

Sean Cruz found a reason to keep living through a song. Then he learned he was living in the home of the musician who wrote that song. This set him on a journey to preserve the musician’s memory and legacy.

“I HAVE ROOTS ALL OVER THE WORLD:” A FORMER DIPLOMAT MAKES HOME WHEREVER SHE IS

by ELLA HUTCHERSON

Pat Johnson lives in Portland, Oregon, but her home is global. After residing in over half a dozen countries, many while working as a U.S. Foreign Service Officer, she has found home in the communities she’s fostered, the traditions she’s adopted, and the fruit trees she’s nurtured in her garden.

SHE USED TO STAND IN LINE FOR SERVICES WHEN SHE WAS UNHOUSED; NOW, SHE PROVIDES THEM

by TERAH BENNETT

Barbra Weber has been unhoused her whole life. Although she now lives in a tiny home village in North Portland, she says she will consider herself homeless for as long as she lives. Her story is one of success and accomplishment as she strives to cultivate a home for those in the same position as she once was.

THROUGH OPPORTUNITY, ADVOCACY AND COMMUNITY, MIGUEL CHAVEZ CREATES HOME IN A KINDER WORLD

by CARRIE CANTRELL

Miguel Chavez grew up in rural Washington, where few resources existed for people with disabilities. Through education and self-advocacy, he finds opportunities in a new environment and community in his chosen family.