This summer, DCJ staff participated in some well established community events. Staff kicked off the summer by participating in the 2014 Portland PRIDE Festival & Parade that took place June 14th and 15th. The parade took place Sunday, June 15th in downtown Portland ending at the Pride Festival at Tom McCall Waterfront Park where DCJ employees staffed a booth all weekend long. The booth allowed members of the public an opportunity to ask questions. A few even shared with staff some positive impacts DCJ has made in their lives.
The parade route was lined with people and DCJ was at the front of the parade, a part of the Public Safety bloc. Staff cheered, waved, danced and gave out stickers, receiving good reactions and thanks from the crowd. The parade draws thousands of people and includes over 130 groups who march in the parade including various non-profits, corporations, religious entities, Oregon dignitaries and many, many more.
Special thanks go to John Bailey who organized DCJ staff to participate in the parade and staff the booth. Ideas were flowing about how to make next year even more exciting!
DCJ staff, decked out in festive attire, ran (or skated!) 6.6. miles with a large group of other law enforcement agencies from Reynolds High School to the County’s Hansen Building. A BBQ awaited the runners to celebrate and refuel. This run was one leg in the journey for the torch. Other runners were on hand to take over and continue the route to the Special Olympics Oregon Summer State Games in Newberg, which began on July 12th.
Thanks to all who gave of their time for this fantastic event and sharing the pictures!
