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News article
Throughout April, Safe Blocks worked alongside East Portland communities to expand access to key services, improve shared spaces, engage youth, and launch new opportunities for creative placemaking.
Published
Each event and announcement brought neighbors together in meaningful ways: strengthening connections, boosting pride in place, and advancing safety.
Dawson Park Resource Fair
Safe Blocks kicked off the month with a vibrant resource fair at Dawson Park, bringing housing, food, health, and wellness support directly into the community. By meeting residents where they gather, the fair made it easy for people to explore services, ask questions, and connect with providers. To ensure everyone felt welcome, the event offered interpretation services, ADA accommodations, and accessible materials.
SE 136th Avenue Litter Pick-Up (SOLVE + Safe Blocks)
On April 24, volunteers of all ages joined Safe Blocks and SOLVE to clean along SE 136th between Division and Powell. Participants gathered at Cruiser's Drive‑In before spreading out to refresh streets, sidewalks, and green spaces. Tools, safety gear, water, and lunch were provided, making it easy for anyone to participate. The clean-up route was accessible for people with mobility concerns, and a Spanish-speaking volunteer was present to support language needs. Together, volunteers helped boost neighborhood pride and maintain a welcoming environment for everyone.
Menlo Park Community Litter Pick-Up (SOLVE + Safe Blocks)
Later that same week, neighbors in the Hazelwood area took part in the recurring Menlo Park Community Litter Pickup. This monthly effort invites residents to care for the streets and parks they use every day. With support from Safe Blocks and SOLVE, volunteers worked together to reduce trash, build connections, and keep the community looking its best.
Youth Personal Safety & Self‑Defense Workshop
On April 28, Safe Blocks co-hosted a youth Personal Safety & Self‑Defense Workshop at Midland Library. Aimed at ages 11–18, the session introduced participants to practical skills for staying safe, like recognizing warning signs, setting boundaries, communicating assertively, and using simple physical defense techniques when needed. Held during National Youth Violence Prevention Week, the workshop offered a supportive, engaging space for young people to build confidence and learn strategies they can use throughout their daily lives.
New Funding Opportunity: East Portland Placemaking RFP
On April 1, Safe Blocks announced an RFP inviting local muralists and creative teams to submit proposals for placemaking projects near East Portland elementary schools (Gilbert Park, Menlo Park, and Ventura Park). With $150,000 available total (and up to $50,000 per project)this opportunity supports street paintings, protected-bike-lane artwork, and neighborhood beautification in historically disinvested areas impacted by violence. Proposals are due by 4 p.m. on May 18, 2026.
Building Safety Through Community
April 2026 underscored Safe Blocks' multilayered approach to community safety: connecting residents with essential services, caring for shared physical environments, empowering youth, and creating visible, community-driven public art. These initiatives continue to build neighborhood strength one block, and one moment, at a time.