The City of Portland Bureau of Development Services (BDS) is currently seeking licensed construction, engineering, architecture and trades volunteers who align with the core values of anti-racism, equity, collaboration, transparency, communication and fiscal responsibility for their Empowered Communities Program.
The program supports Black, Indigenous, people of color and persons with disabilities who have received a violation letter from the City of Portland regarding the building permit process. The homeowners in the program have needs like plumbing and electrical repairs and upgrades; tiling the floor and shower of a bathroom; repairing or replacing an asphalt driveway; or drafting plans for a deck.
People with skills and an interest in volunteering their time are encouraged to fill out the volunteer form at bit.ly/BDSvolunteering. BDS will be in touch if they have a client that is in need of the services you can provide. If you accept, you’ll work directly with the client.
BDS also helps clients in the program research and understand code requirements; outlining the scope of work to meet code requirements; and by being a resource during the permitting and inspection processes. Understanding that permit fees may create a barrier, BDS will try to connect clients with city and community resources for fee reduction. Priority is given for health and safety improvements of low income clients.
For more information or with questions, email empowered@portlandoregon.gov or call 503.823.7300 Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm. If you are a low income Black, Indigenous, person of color or person with disabilities property owner who received a violation letter (or know someone who did), find information about receiving help through the program at bit.ly/EmpoweredCP.