Give twice this holiday season when proceeds from your purchases go to charitable causes.
Street Roots presents its first holiday Gift Guide. All businesses and nonprofits are based in Portland and were selected because they offer products or services perfect for holiday gift giving, with part or all of the proceeds going to a dedicated charity.
Albertina’s Place
All proceeds support Albertina Kerr, a nonprofit providing a wide range of programs and services to adults and children with developmental disabilities and mental health challenges.
“All proceeds support Albertina Kerr, which has strengthened Oregon families and communities since 1907. Today, we provide programs and services to children and adults with developmental disabilities and mental health challenges, empowering them to live richer lives.” – Steve Zeiden, marketing and communications manager
Gift shops and holiday decor
At Albertina’s Place, inside the historic Old Kerr Nursery Building, you’ll find many gift options within its shops. Albertina’s Jewel Box offers an abundance of Christmas decorations, vintage and fine jewelry, accessories, and artwork created by adults with developmental disabilities. Sixty percent of proceeds from artwork go to the creator. You’ll also find antiques and collectibles at Albertina’s Heirlooms and thrift store offerings at Albertina’s Closet, and you can enjoy lunch at Albertina’s Kitchen while you shop.
Audubon Society of Portland’s Nature Store features gifts with a nature theme.
Audubon Society of Portland
This 110-year-old nonprofit promotes the enjoyment and conservation of birds, other wildlife and their habitats.
“The proceeds from the Nature Store stay in the community, supporting local education and conservation initiatives.” – McKenzie Joslin-Snyder, Nature Store buyer
For the birds
Audubon Society of Portland’s Nature Store features nature books, hiking and field guides, binoculars and spotting scopes, bird feeders and seed, plus gifts and toys for adults and children, all with a nature theme. The Nature Store is located at the society’s 150-acre Sanctuary adjacent to Forest Park.
On Dec. 6, Cafe au Play closed without notice. According to a note on its website, “The cause of the closing is our assessment that our current operational structure is not viable.”
It will, however, continue to host its holiday tree sale through Dec. 20.
This nonprofit bike shop strives to remove barriers to bike access. It offers earn-a-bike programs for low-income adults and children where safe riding and maintenance techniques are taught.
“We’re more than a bike shop. We’re dedicated to enriching our community through everything that we do. As a nonprofit organization, the proceeds from all of our bike shop sales benefit our community programs for people with low incomes.” – Melinda Musser, communications and marketing manager
For the bicyclist
The center’s bike shop sells fully refurbished and as-is bicycles, new and used bike parts, accessories and tools, as well as gift certificates for products or bike repair services.
Branded merchandise and gift certificates available at Ex Novo’s brewery.
Ex Novo Brewing Co.
This nonprofit brewery and pub donates its profits to select charities, such as Friends of the Children, International Justice Mission, Impact Northwest and Mercy Corps.
“As a nonprofit brewery, we craft distinct and enjoyable beers and donate 100 percent of our net profits to organizations building a better world. So, when you drink our beer or eat at Ex Novo, you’re helping those in need. Thanks for that!” – Joel Gregory, founder
For the beer connoisseur
Branded merchandise and gift certificates available at Ex Novo’s brewery, which serves fine pub fare and its core lineup of beer, seasonal releases, and barrel-aged and sour beers.
The Flawless Foundation is offering a handcrafted, sterling silver Flawless necklace for .
The Flawless Foundation
This nonprofit seeks to revolutionize the way the world perceives, prevents and treats brain-based behavioral challenges. It also offers yoga programs at specialized schools for mental health and behaviorally challenged children.
“Yoga helps children with mental health and behavioral challenges by teaching them to become more centered, how to connect with their bodies, focus their attention and holistically heals brain health, mental health anxiety and depression.” – Janine Francolini, founder and board chair
Silver necklace
The foundation is offering a handcrafted, sterling silver Flawless necklace for $75 and a handcrafted leather and silver keychain for $20. Each comes in a small canvas bag hand-stamped with the Flawless peacock. All proceeds go to support the foundation’s local yoga programs for children at specialized schools. These items are available online only.
When you purchase a gift tree from Friends of Trees, you and the recipient can help plant it.
Friends of Trees
This nonprofit has planted half a million trees in the Portland-Vancouver and Eugene-Springfield metro areas since 1989.
“All of the trees purchased are planted in sensitive restoration sites, and they’re all native trees – Douglas fir, western hemlock, western red cedar. They’ll be there for centuries to come.” – Lizzie Sords, development associate
Plant a tree
Holiday-themed gift-tree certificates and tree packs are available starting at $35. When you purchase a gift tree, you will receive a holiday-themed certificate packaged to present to the recipient. Friends of Trees will invite you and the recipient to help plant a tree in the recipient’s honor in the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge in the spring. Friends of Trees hoodies are also available for $30.
ReStore accepts donated furniture, appliances, light fixtures, home goods and building materials and resells them to raise money for Habitat for Humanity.
“In January 2015, Habitat for Humanity International built its millionth home, and we build 30-plus homes locally every year.” – Danny Dunn, manager
For the DIY enthusiast
Visit the store to peruse available items, from vintage furniture and lighting fixtures to materials for DIY projects. Gift certificates are also available in any increment.
At Happy Cup, a gift box includes a mug, a T-shirt and a bag of coffee for .
Happy Cup
This specialty coffee roaster offers employment at competitive wages to adults with disabilities and donates a percentage of its profits to vocational and recreational programming for this community.
“Spending time with our folks, and seeing them evolve and grow as they learn job skills, makes this best job I’ve ever had.” – Baileigh Colerick, production manager
Coffee gift boxes
Gift certificates, bags of coffee, mugs and shirts are available at both café locations. Gift boxes can be ordered in-store or online: Coffee mug, T-shirt and bag of coffee for $27 or three-bag set for $36.
Coffeehouses at 446 NE Killingsworth St. and City Hall happycup.com
NoPo Paws
This not-just-for-profit pet product store donates 10 percent of its profits to animal rescue and animal welfare organizations. Through the end of the year, proceeds will go to One Tail at a Time Portland, specifically to pay the veterinarian fees for saving the life of Denali, a malnourished Husky foster pup.
“I was inspired as a result of working with my two dogs that were rescues, and from volunteering with rescues. It’s the right thing to do. We need more philanthropic entrepreneurs in our community.” – Sarah Fuller, owner
For pet lovers
NoPo Paws has storewide holiday specials on everything except food on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. The shop carries toys, treats and other necessities for dogs and cats, including products from West Paw Design, creators of environmentally friendly pet toys, and Jax & Bones, a pet product company that donates 10 percent of its toy sales to animal rescues.
Oregon Public House donates 100 percent of its profits to rotating charities.
Oregon Public House
This nonprofit pub donates 100 percent of its profits to select, rotating charities. Through the end of the year, purchases made at Oregon Public House will go directly to support Soul River Inc., Boxes of Love/Embrace Oregon, Solar for All, NE Portland Backpack Lunch Program, Kairos Portland and Project Pooch.
“We’re doing this because we love our neighborhood and we love our city.” – Ryan Saari, director
Beer, grub and garb
Gift cards in any increment are available for purchase at the pub, along with growlers, hats, hoodies, T-shirts, tank tops and beanies. The pub offers classic pub fare and rotating taps featuring regional and imported craft beers.
At p:ear, young artists receive 90 percent of proceeds from the sales of their art.
p:ear
This nonprofit builds positive relationships with homeless and transitional youths through education, art and recreation. Each year, its programs serve nearly 900 people ages 15 to 24.
“Art saves lives, really, and that’s what we do. We create opportunities for youth to come in and be a part of art, make art and work with professional artists.” – William Kendall, arts program coordinator
Paintings and sculptures
P:ear opens its gallery, featuring prints, sculptures, paintings and sketches created by homeless and transitional youths and globally recognized artists on First Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. Young artists receive 90 percent of proceeds from the sales of their art, with the remaining 10 percent going toward the purchase of art supplies to stock p:ear’s art studio. At least 50 percent of proceeds from sales of renowned artists go directly to support p:ear. A private gallery viewing is available by appointment. Contact William at william@pearmentor.org.
This nonprofit offers adults with developmental disabilities the opportunity to enrich their lives through education, art and theatrical performance.
PHAME offers adults with developmental disabilities the opportunity to enrich their lives through education, art and theatrical performance.
“PHAME is singular. PHAME is fabulous. PHAME supports individuals who experience developmental disabilities in leading their fullest, most creative lives. In Portland, there’s only one PHAME.” – Stephen Marc Beaudoin, executive director
Concert tickets and prints
From 7 to 9 p.m. Dec. 7, Get PHAMEous Community Arts Open House will feature artwork for sale that was created by PHAME artists, including art cards and prints ranging from $10 to $50. Signed 11-by-14-inch full-color, limited-edition prints will also be available for purchase online. Order by Dec. 15 to receive your order by Dec. 25. The open house is also an opportunity to learn more about PHAME and to watch a rehearsal and short excerpts from performances. It’s free to attend. Gift certificates for PHAME concerts, shows and musicals are also available online.
These North Portland cafés and gift shop are nonprofits run in partnership with the Celebration Tabernacle church. Po’shines offers Teach Me To Fish, a job-training program teaching at-risk youths how to work in the service industry.
“When I started four years ago, I was a single mom to a little boy and basically couch surfing. I came in with community service to do, and now four years later I’m manager. I’ve seen people come and go and lives change, and I know my life has changed itself, for the better.” – Nikole Pierson, café manager
Soul food and barbecue
Gift certificates are available for Po’shines’ contemporary soul food with a Cajun flair. Breakfast, lunch and dinner menus include favorites such as barbecue baby-back ribs, fried catfish, and chicken and waffles at this sit-down restaurant in the Kenton neighborhood.
Garden party and vintage glassware
Poshette’s is an antique shop and café with vintage glassware for sale such as wine decanters, 17th and 18th century champagne flutes, and cobalt glass. Gift certificates are also available. This neighborhood coffee and wine house offers a rotating menu of fresh, locally made, sweet and savory dishes. Join them in the Po’Garden for live music, games and special events.
This nonprofit offers affordable building and remodeling materials with the goal of promoting the use of salvaged and reclaimed materials. It moves 8 tons of material per day. The center also donates materials to nonprofits and offers work experience, community building tool packets and educational services.
“We invest our profits in community, and we convene and catalyze the efforts of others to engage in community change, helping them to tell their stories.” – Stephen Reichard, executive director
For the eccentric artist or handy person
Gift certificates are available and well suited for do-it-yourself enthusiasts and artists, or try your hand at creating unique gifts from reclaimed and salvaged materials. You never know what you’ll find perusing the center’s gigantic warehouse – from knick knacks such as candle holders and antique keg taps to tiles for mosaics and lighting fixtures – and staff is always up for negotiating prices.
SCRAP’s To Go Kits include ribbon, small toys, designer paper and other materials for kids or artists.
SCRAP PDX
This nonprofit, donation-based, creative reuse store provides a range of educational opportunities for the community.
“I love the environment and creativity. SCRAP combines all my loves. When people support SCRAP, they are supporting environmentally sustainable behavior.” – Elizabeth Start, director
For kids and mixed media artists
SCRAP’s To Go Kits are perfect for both artists and kids. A hodge-podge of ribbon, small toys, designer paper and other materials, they can provide hours of entertainment for kids or complement any mixed-media artist’s tool box. At $5, they’re a steal. SCRAP also offers Collage & Vintage Packs for scrapbooking and card making.
Wrapping station
Wrap your holiday gifts with reused materials! SCRAP’s wrapping station will be open throughout the holiday season. Donations are suggested for the use of the wrapping station. Every Saturday in December, SCRAP will host a craft table for customers to make handmade gifts.
Soul River Runs Deep is featuring its line of scented candles the owner created to embody rivers of the Pacific Northwest.
Soul River Runs Deep
This fly-fishing boutique channels 15 percent of profits to Soul River Inc., a nonprofit that takes military veterans and inner city youths out into nature for fishing trips together.
“It’s a way of connecting to youth, who are fighting for their lives in underserved communities, and veterans, who are fighting for their acceptance in society again after what they have come through with PTSD.” – Chad Brown, owner and founder
Designer hats, tees and fishing gear
This Kenton boutique offers original designer hats and graphic tees, shemaghs, chic laser-engraved pocketknives and fly-fishing gear – from flies tied by local fly makers to rods, reels and other essentials. Soul River is featuring its line of scented candles the owner created to embody rivers of the Pacific Northwest. The Deschutes River scent burns a warm, nostalgic sage; the Metolious River scent will transfer you there with cedar notes; the Yakima River scent burns a warm, smoky scent of campfire; and the McKenzie River scent portrays the herbal essence of a warm day, riverside.
This not-just-for-profit Portland-based fashion brand hires women in Uganda to make sandals, enabling them to earn money. A portion goes into a college savings account, which Sseko matches 100 percent. Starting in 2016, Sseko will match their savings at 200 percent. Sseko also designs and sources ethically made products from East Africa.
“I moved to Uganda to do journalism, and I was really interested in the issues that were facing women and girls who were living in extreme poverty and conflict zones, and that’s how I met this incredible group of young women … and wanted to see them have the same opportunity that I was afforded as a woman who was able to pursue my education.” – Liz Bohannon, founder
Shoes and accessories
This season, Sseko Designs is featuring the Sophia Bush Package, which includes a pair of black ribbon sandals, a set of four Sseko Brave prints and a set of bangles for $99, and its brand new Brave Bracelets, ranging in price from $30 to $60. Other products include purses, wallets, scarves, shoes, sandal gift sets and gift certificates. Shop online for full selection — there will be sales from Black Friday through Cyber Monday — or visit Pie Footwear, Popina Swimwear or EcoVibe Apparel for select products.
Beginning Dec. 4, Street Roots vendors will have the opportunity to sell a limited-edition zine (small-circulation magazine), along with weekly issues of the Street Roots newspaper.
Street Roots vendors
Beginning Dec. 4, Street Roots vendors will have the opportunity to sell a limited-edition zine (small-circulation magazine), along with weekly issues of the Street Roots newspaper. The zine will cost vendors $1 to cover printing costs, and they will sell it for $4, keeping the $3 they earn from each sale as a means of earning extra income this holiday season.
“I was thrilled to help create a gift to the community that has supported me all year. It’s truly a gift from the hearts of many grateful vendors, and it’s always a treat to have fresh perspectives on beauty. Please pick up a copy next time you see a vendor.” — Lori Lematta, vendor and poet
For your reading pleasure
The zine, titled “Life is Beautiful,” contains original poetry and art from Street Roots vendors surrounding the theme: What makes life beautiful? It’s 24 pages and has a high-quality cover. This fall, vendors attended the Street Roots creative writing workshops to produce the work featured in this original Street Roots zine.
Vendors will sell at their usual turfs throughout Portland streetroots.org
Fabric painting by Veronica Chitsike.
Zimbabwe Artists Project
This nonprofit works primarily with female artists from rural Weya in Eastern Zimbabwe. It buys art directly from them and sells it online and from its Portland gallery. ZAP helps Zimbabwean artists and their families access health care, and it has assisted them with other personal challenges and has funded and led projects to bring clean water and educational assistance to more than 100 children in the area.
“We are really proud to be partnering with this community of artists. They’re incredibly talented, hard-working and resourceful women, and we want to be there to support their enterprise, to support their self-sufficiency, and we’re just happy to be a means for them to make a living and be able to represent their beautiful artwork.” – Nicole Perkins, program manager
Original African art
ZAP will open its gallery from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 12 for its holiday sale, and ZAP artists’ work is always available on ZAP’s website (the gallery does not have regular hours). Artists’ work includes colorful board paintings, intricate hand-embroidered wall hangings, fabric “Sadza” paintings, greeting cards and matambas, which are unique ornaments. Each piece of artwork comes with a photo biography of the artist and a handwritten description that she wrote about the piece.
While many businesses donate periodically to charitable causes, we selected only those with a dedicated charity built into their business model. Street Roots made its best effort to reach out to all Portland area not-just-for-profit businesses and nonprofits offering gift-worthy products. If your organization is not included in this guide and you’d like to see if you qualify for next year’s installation, please email emily@streetroots.org.
