Our mission

Helping kids grow to be mentally well through year-round afternoon communities where meaningful connections and creativity are cultivated 

Give every child access to a community of support and strategies that promote mental wellness

Sarah Lopez grew up in East Portland and is a former elementary classroom teacher. After six years in the classroom she felt determined to provide a way for the community outside of the education system to actively participate in the social and  emotional growth of kids in low income areas. She knew that it is no easy feat to ensure that kids grow to be mentally well, and community involvement has the potential to make all the difference. We Belong PDX began with painting and games in a parking lot with a small group of kids and has grown into a program that is satiating the hunger for healthy community throughout the neighborhood.