Literary Arts relies not only on the generosity of financial donations; some of the most impactful gifts we receive are from the hundreds of volunteers who support Literary Arts with their time and care. This past year Literary Arts hosted a sold-out Portland Book Festival across multiple venues around downtown Portland’s south Park Blocks, with over 8,000 attendees. This event would not be possible without the help of over 250 volunteers whose support makes this event happen.
“When I moved here in 2019, looking for connection, I saw an ad for the Book Fest, and I immediately knew I had to volunteer, not just attend. I didn’t know it then, but it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I am so excited to be part of an organization that uplifts readers and writers of all ages and fosters a sense of community locally and across the PNW. Volunteering with Literary Arts has made me a better, more connected Portlander and a better reader, too!”
— Ashley Jemes, Literary Arts Volunteer
Our volunteers contribute greatly to our work each year, not just through Portland Book Festival, but more recently, with events in our bookstore. Our small team could not do this work without their generosity.
To further celebrate volunteerism this season, we spoke to some staff members who volunteer their time at other organizations whose missions are meaningful to them.
“Portland Lit Mic is an open mic reading series for writers of all genres and experience levels, hosted by Jordan Marzka and Grace Lawrence. Portland Lit Mic’s mission is to reimagine the literary scene. By producing interactive writing workshops and championing writers of all genres, we hope to expand how we connect through the act of writing.” My values are extremely aligned with this practice of making art accessible and keeping a supportive community at the forefront of all creative endeavors (writing shouldn’t be a lonely activity!).”
— Elena, Operations Coordinator
“Kindness Farm is a first-generation immigrant, refugee, and queer led nonprofit farm. What better ways to give back than nourishing communities and your own spirit and soul by working with the land? They offer experiential volunteer sessions to groups as well.”
— Rui, Associate Director of Operations
“What doesn’t go better together than books and cats?! I have been volunteering at CAT Adoption Team as an Adoption Councilor Assistant since May of 2022. As a volunteer, I get the amazing experience of helping people find their perfect feline match. One of the joys I find in the experience is how every adopter wants to share stories of their pets. Volunteering provides a service to the shelter, but it provides me a moment to connect with the community in such a unique way.”
— Denver, Senior Executive Assistant & Volunteer Manager
“I volunteer with Pacific Pug Rescue, a local organization whose mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome pugs and pug mixes in need, regardless of age, medical condition, or circumstance. I have a particular fondness for senior pugs and adopted my now 12-year-old pug Oscar from them two years ago after their owners were unable to care for his advancing medical needs. I believe all beings deserve love, care, dignity, and a safe space to spend their golden years.”
— Jyoti, Director of Marketing and Communications
Learn more about ways to volunteer with Literary Arts here.
