Central Oregon has a reputation for being a nice and welcoming community – at least among certain populations. During a 17-month community engagement process, Envision Bend 501(c)3 heard from over 3,500 respondents to create a Vision Action Plan for greater Bend with a five-year horizon.
Here is a response that an individual shared talking about their experiences of belonging in Central Oregon:
“Welcoming and belonging are two different things. When we think about welcoming, we welcome guests. Belonging is intentionally creating the spaces, the structure, and the culture so that everyone is able to fully participate. When you think about belonging, you have shared power, shared decision-making, and you have equal profits and equal stake in the good.”
The ongoing mental health crisis and pervasive social inequities prevent many groups from experiencing a sense of belonging here in Central Oregon. While many individuals may experience a sense of belonging while with their family, at their workplace, or place of worship; their experience participating in the larger society – shopping, recreating, pursuing education, accessing health care and other social services – is often one of alienation, loneliness, and discrimination.
Research co-led by Oregon Health and Science University and OSU-Cascades for the Community Belonging Measurement Project found significantly lower rates of belonging, safety, and community influence for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ Central Oregon residents.
Numerous studies have shown that people with a strong sense of belonging in a community tend to live happier and healthier lives and tend to trust local organizations and institutions more. That sense of belonging also impacts whether people participate and collaborate in civic
life, which can be essential in times of need or exploration. Successful communities typically have an abundance of such social capital.
Partner organizations working on belonging initiatives and interested community members are invited to a no-cost Belonging Community Conversation event co-hosted by Envision Bend and Embrace Bend on Thursday, September 26th, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at OSU-C Edward J. Ray Hall—Atrium.
Register at tinyurl.com/belongingeventsept26
This event, in partnership with the City of Bend’s Welcome Week, aims to gather insights from partner organizations and community members to enhance a sense of Belonging in Central Oregon Bend. Attendees will hear from a moderated panel of multiple organizations working directly with various priority populations, with audience QA following.
You will also learn more from community partners, such as the next steps in Oregon Health and Science University’s Belonging Measurement Project and more information about the recently launched HumanHub ‘Belonging’ Project in partnership between Envision Bend, Embrace Bend, and community members. The project’s goal is to understand gaps in the community around belonging and create an Alliance of Belonging Partners in 2025.
Light food and refreshments will be provided, along with reimbursement for any transportation or childcare costs that might otherwise be a barrier to your attendance.