PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — More than 1,200 Portland residents and 110 local businesses rolled up their sleeves Friday afternoon to take part in the citywide cleanup initiative known as “We Believe in Portland.”
Community Rallies for a Cleaner City
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., volunteers gathered in teams to remove trash and litter across central Portland. The cleanup stretched from Pioneer Courthouse Square to the Willamette River, over the Hawthorne Bridge, and into the Central Eastside.
The event drew a mix of individuals, families, and employees representing local businesses, all united by a common goal: to improve the look and feel of the city.
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“I think it’s just something that is needed,” said volunteer Kayt Crow. “We really want to walk down the road and have a sense of beauty and clean. And that starts with us and with taking care of our area and beyond.”
Event Leadership and Support
The cleanup was emceed by KATU’s Angelica Thornton, who energized participants and encouraged community members to keep working together toward a cleaner Portland.
The initiative was organized by AdoptOneBlock, a local nonprofit dedicated to neighborhood beautification. Friday’s effort built on the success of the Spring Cleanup in April, when 1,800 volunteers and 170 businesses participated.
A Growing Civic Movement
“We Believe in Portland” is more than a single-day event — it’s an ongoing effort to grow a network of volunteers committed to keeping city streets and sidewalks free of litter. Organizers say expanding the volunteer base is essential for sustaining visible improvements across neighborhoods.
The movement highlights how small, local acts of service can collectively transform the cityscape and boost civic pride.
Open to All Residents
Participation in the cleanup events is free, and residents from across Portland are encouraged to join future efforts. Volunteers can sign up online, with opportunities available year-round.
For many, the cleanup represents not just a way to beautify the city, but also a way to foster connection and shared responsibility among neighbors.
Looking Ahead
Organizers hope the turnout will continue to grow, building momentum with each event. The success of Friday’s cleanup, combined with April’s strong participation, suggests that Portlanders are eager to play an active role in reclaiming and revitalizing their city.
“‘We Believe in Portland’ is about more than just picking up trash,” said one organizer. “It’s about restoring pride, showing that people care, and proving that when we come together, we can make a difference.”
