By Mary Alice Scott
It’s hard to believe that summer is wrapping up and a new school year is beginning already. With so many important national and global events in the news, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. If that happens to you, we recommend returning to the old mantra of “think globally, act locally.”
Right before the world quickly changed with the arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic, Portland Buy Local was endeavoring to re-work our organizational priorities. PBL has been around for fifteen years, working to serve the local business community.
We’re excited to announce a refreshed mission, a slate of new events, and soon, a brand-new website! Our refreshed mission is: We champion local independent businesses, the heart of Greater Portland’s unique appeal, through marketing, education, business development, and community connection. We think that sums up pretty well how wonderful our local business community is, and how varied our work is in keeping that community thriving!
For the fall, we are returning to some old favorite events, while creating some new ones. We hope you’ll join us for one or more.
Upcoming Portland Buy Local Events
Requiring Vaccinations: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.
Friday, September 9th from 9am-10am
A forum for small business owners who are considering requiring vaccinations for employees and/or customers.
Downtown Worker Appreciation Day
Thursday, September 23rd from 10am-12pm
The return of a beloved event! Join Portland Buy Local and Portland Downtown in Monument Square to celebrate the workers who make our beloved city so vibrant. We’ll have giveaways, raffles, and so much more. It’s a chance to give thanks to the workers who have gone above and beyond this year.
Small Business Problem Solving Sessions
Tuesday, September 28th from 4pm-5pm
A new event. In these sessions, small business owners will come together in conversation with their colleagues to discuss issues ranging from managing inventory, finding staff, navigating grants, and more. These sessions will be limited in number and require pre-registration. Part networking, part problem-solving, and part therapy session, this is a chance for local business owners to connect and support one another in small groups and develop a deeper sense of community.
Check out www.portlandbuylocal.org for more information and to keep updated on all our new goings-on!
Mary Alice Scott is Executive Director of Portland Buy Local. The West End News is a Portland Buy Local member and media partner.
