Home Page for Oregon Rural Action: working to promote social justice, agricultural and economic sustainability, and stewardship of the region's land, air and water
ORA seeks to expand our team of dedicated staff with a full-time & part-time community organizers in Union, Baker and Malheur counties. We also seek a part-time administrative assistant and two interns at the La Grande office in 2012.
New Report Points Toward a Sustainable Future for the U.S. Power Sector
WORC joined with the Civil Society Institute in releasing Synapse Report, Toward a Sustainable Future for the U.S. Power Sector: Beyond Business as Usual, a report outlining a realistic path for a cleaner and less expensive energy future. The report also finds that Westerners would likely see lower electricity costs by 2020 if the U.S. adopts a long-term strategy to replace coal-fire electricity with energy efficiency and renewable resources.
Our 2011 Annual Appeal was a success- as of January 9th, dedicated and supportive members invested in ORA's 2012 efforts by raising $3,007.
A BIG, heartfelt "Thank You!" to all who contributed! Also, a round of applause for Janet Rose Marie & Ken and Jeri Watson for their inspiring letters.
Oregon Rural Action boasts such amazing members. Thank you to everyone for everything you do for ORA, you are such a powerful voice.
"Together we DO make a difference!"- Janet Rose Marie
We're looking forward to an
exciting year!
The Energy Team is making great progress with the Solarize Union County project, with big plans in motion already. March brings the long-awaited Annual Meeting, featuring guest speaker Ken Meter showcasing the findings of his Food Systems Analysis, a regional study contracted by ORA. The Community Garden and Youth Projects ramp up in May, along with the Solar Fair. And don't forget the 2nd Annual Barn Dance in July! There are too many great events and projects to list, so stay tuned!
Get involved, attend your local chapter meeting!
Snake River Chapter gathers on January 18th at St. Matthew's Parish in Ontario.
Blue Mountain Chapter will meet at ORA headquarters on January 26th from 6-8pm.
Thanks for Ending the Season of Sharing with a Gift...
"Oregon Rural Action is a collective, rural voice...
...made up of dedicated people like you who are actively creating more sustainable, livable and just communities. ORA is both a community of people and a gathering place. It is a spring board and an instrument to make holistic, grassroots change in the places we most care about.
In these last days of 2011 we are about half way to our goal of raising $3000 during the holidays. Your support makes ORA more sustainable. Many, many heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed already."
-Nella Parks, Staff Director
A note from Board member Janet Rose Marie.
"IMAGINE Eastern Oregon without Oregon Rural Action....
"In 2011, I contemplated this possible reality many times...while enjoying the beauty of the community gardens, gathering with you for important films, classes, meeting, and solar workshops. I thought of it while at farmers markets, farm to school activities, while pitching in with local gleaning, or participating in political actions for the transformation of the way we do life in our communities.
The fact that we made it through the bleak times this year, speaks to the power of our mission statement and the dedication of our organizers and volunteers.
I invite you, whole-heartedly, to consider entering this Season of Sharing with a Gift. A Thank You donation from those of us that are able will assure a strong end to 2011 and an exciting beginning to 2012.
Another way to make a strong impact..give a membership to friends or family or your favorite business.
Celebrating and Enjoying Oregon Rural Action. Together we DO make a difference. Thank you to each and every one of you!"
- Janet Rose Marie, ORA Board Member & WORC Local Foods Committee member
This is a particularly exciting time to be a part of ORA, say Jeri & Ken Watson.
" ..Not only has our commitment and support kept ORA in forward motion, but such incredibly member involvement and devotion has earned notice and crucial support from funders like McKenzie River Gathering, Meyer Memorial Trust, Juan Young Trust and others. Such recognition enables ORA to achieve goals of growing membership, stabilizing financially, and hiring dedicated, qualified new staff. It is important that our membership continues their support!"
A gift membership to Oregon Rural Action is also a great way to show you care while supporting the important work to promote social justice, agricultural and economic sustainability, and stewardship of the region's land, air, and water. We'll even send them a note on your behalf.
Building strong communities by organizing
citizens to promote social justice, agricultural and economic
sustainability, and stewardship of the region's land, air and water
