The highly anticipated Portland Slavic Festival draws the attention of thousands every year, including community groups outside of the Slavic circle. Planned and prepared by the Slavic Community Center, this event celebrates Slavic heritage in a variety of traditional displays and programs. By uniting the diverse members of the former Soviet Union and showcasing their rich cultural aspects, this exciting event promotes and advocates for the Slavic culture in America, a key factor in easing the assimilation of immigrant communities in the United States. 

The biggest attraction of the event lies in the performances from all nations of the former Soviet Union entertain the crowds with music, dance, acrobatics, fashion and car shows,  in an array of exciting performances. In addition to cultural displays on stage, Slavic cuisine is also an enticing part of the festival. Vendors of all sorts come together to create an exquisite menu that satisfies every craving. From pilaf to crepes, every former U.S.S.R. nation is represented at the Slavic festival, promoting a unified community and attracting diverse groups to the festival every year. 

Besides cultural celebration and entertainment, the Portland Slavic Festival also provides organizations including the Multnomah County Health Department, Adventist Health, Trimet, Portland Park and recreation, and the U.S. Forest Service with community outreach opportunities that are beneficial for both parties. Businesses and organizations are able to share their information and resources with an underrepresented community, widening their circle of influence and creating valuable connections. 

The post Portland Slavic Festival appeared first on Slavic Community Center of NW.

In partnership with the Portland Bureau of Transportation, the Slavic Community Center was able to create a Pedestrian Education Seminar was created to inform the Slavic community of recent traffic law changes in the region. Language barriers and lack of access to information prohibit many Slavic citizens from receiving adequate access to crucial information about traffic law changes and safety knowledge, creating a higher possibility for traffic hazards within the community. By creating an event with instruction from Sharon White of PBOT through a series of songs in automotive-themed Russian songs and an active walk through SE Portland, members of the Slavic community were able to learn pedestrian safety and participate in an engaging and informative discourse. 

The post Pedestrian Education Seminars appeared first on Slavic Community Center of NW.

In partnership with the non-profit organization Free Bikes 4 Kidz, the Slavic Community Center was able to provide free bikes to children in need. Participating, underprivileged Slavic families who qualified for the bike distribution received a free bike and helmet on the day of the event. Combined efforts allowed for 60 children to participate, choosing a bicycle and helmet of their choice and receiving proper bike riding safety and instruction before taking it home. 

The post Bike Distribution for Children in Need appeared first on Slavic Community Center of NW.