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About Portland observer. (Portland, Or.) 1970-current | View Entire Issue (Oct. 9, 2024)
Minority Business Special Edition 2024 Page 2 October 09, 2024 Photos courtesy of the Community Cycling Center Emergency Fundraiser to Avoid Closure CCC Sets New Fundraising Target for Sustainability The Community Cycling Center (CCC) is proud to announce the success of its ini- tial emergency fundraiser, which allowed the organization to surpass its first financial target and avoid immediate closure. How- ever, the organization remains in a precari- ous financial situation, requiring continued community support to secure its future. Last month’s fundraiser provided a criti- cal lifeline, helping to prevent a total shut- down of operations. However, much like a “fire danger” warning system, CCC’s financial status has only shifted from “Ex- treme” to “High.” Without additional funds to create a financial safety net, the organi- zation remains vulnerable to closure. To stabilize and reach the next stage of recovery, the CCC has set a goal of re- ducing the “danger level” to “Moderate” by raising an additional $54,297 by No- vember 1st. These funds will help cover essential operational costs and build the financial reserves necessary to sustain the organization during uncertain times. “This is about more than keeping our doors open, “said Ruben Alvarado, Exec- utive Director of the Community Cycling Center. “It’s about ensuring we can con- tinue to serve the community by providing access to bikes, education, and support to those who need it most.” The fundraising goal is part of a larger $349,000 target to be met by December 31st. Ongoing donations are critical to keeping the CCC’s programs running, in- cluding its bike refurbishment initiatives and educational outreach. It costs $250 to provide one individual with a bike and bike education, which includes refurbish- ing a donated bicycle and supplying essen- tial accessories such as helmets, locks, and winter riding gear. Reaching the $54,297 goal by Novem- ber 1st will allow the CCC to connect 217 more people in the Portland metro- politan area with bikes and essential bike education. The organization continues to prioritize its core mission: empowering individuals, especially from underserved communities, with the tools and skills they need to access affordable, healthy, and en- vironmentally friendly transportation. In addition to fundraising, the CCC is taking strategic steps to strengthen its long- term Sustainability by consolidating roles and not filling recently vacated leadership positions, CCC has reduced administrative costs by 50%, allowing more resources to Continued on Page 11
