Laugh for Livability

I’ve been a member of the Coalition for a Livable Future (CLF) since its founding in 1994, and was elected by the membership to the Board of Trustees in 2004. CLF is a broad coalition of over 80 community organizations, hundreds of individuals, and many local businesses. “Through research, policy advocacy, and public education, CLF works to create and preserve affordable housing; ensure clean water; protect open space, wildlife habitat and farmland; create living wage jobs; provide real transportation choices; and end hunger in our community.” By coordinating and networking between so many organizations, CLF helps advocates work together on issues like affordable housing, transportation planning, and environmental stewardship. One current project almost ready for lauch is the Regional Equity Atlas, mapping Metro-area data from the 2000 Census, produced in collaboration with Portland State University. If you like maps, accurate statistical data, and commentary helping to make sense of them, check out the preview (pdf), which includes an order form.

The administrative support for CLF’s grassroots network coordinating function is funded by memberships, and by our annual fundraiser, “Laugh for Livability”. Some non-profits do annual dinners for their big event to raise money for the year, others special lectures; CLF does an evening of entertainment. Being a policy geek, I get more excited about our annual Summit, a full day of lectures, debates, and discussion, coming up later in the Spring. But I recognize some people prefer music, jokes, food and beer, and if that’s the kind of fundraiser you’re interested in supporting, this one is for you.

Date: Friday, February 2, 2007 (one week from tomorrow)
Time: 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Location: Melody Ballroom, 615 SE Alder
Cost: $35/ticket

Program: Silent auction & raffle featuring delightful items from our region’s great businesses beginning at 7 pm. Serving of beer, wine, and hors d‘oeuvres also begins at 7 pm. Stage performance starts at 8:30 p.m.

Guest stars include: Metro Councilors Robert Liberty & Rex Burkholder; State Rep. Carolyn Tomei; Jo Ann Bowman; Jonathan Nicholas; Jonathan Poisner; Bob Stacey, and more.

More details and on-line ticket purchases here. Order today to get your tickets in the mail and avoid waiting in the Will Call line.