Alberta Main Street

Alberta Main Street (AMS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Portland, Oregon, dedicated to enhancing the Alberta Street business district.

Mission and Objectives

The organization's mission is to develop Alberta Street into a vibrant, creative, equitable, and sustainable commercial district serving residents, businesses, and visitors. AMS achieves this through various initiatives such as business support, community events, clean-ups, and design and art projects.

History

Alberta Main Street became an official nonprofit in 2010. Initially, it was one of four Main Street Programs chosen by Prosper Portland, an organization focused on building a more equitable economy. The founding Executive Director, Sara Wittenberg, played a crucial role in establishing AMS as a volunteer-led network that supported both the community and local businesses. Following her passing in 2018, the organization received a National Main Street Award in 2019, recognizing its past efforts to revitalize the Alberta Street area.

Operations During Challenges

During the COVID-19 pandemic, AMS faced significant challenges. The organization shifted its focus to helping businesses navigate federal relief funds and hosted virtual events, such as the Alberta Street Fair. By 2021, due to budget cuts, AMS reduced its staff and focused on maintaining existing projects, including the upkeep of Black Heritage Markers on Alberta Street. These markers highlight stories of notable African Americans from Northeast Portland.

Current Status

As of 2023, Alberta Main Street is revitalizing its efforts and seeking new leadership and volunteers. The organization is looking to fill various roles on its board, including legal support, financial management, web design, volunteer coordination, grant writing, fundraising, nonprofit administration, organizational development, marketing, and event planning. This renewed effort aims to strengthen the community's presence and support for local businesses.

Recent Developments

In early 2024, Alberta Main Street was under investigation by Multnomah County prosecutors due to allegations of embezzlement by former leadership. The investigation indicated that tens of thousands of dollars were withdrawn, leading to a further need for transparency and reform within the organization.

Despite these challenges, AMS remains committed to its mission of promoting equity and sustainability along Alberta Street. The organization continues to host community events, including BIPOC markets, street cleanups, and holiday celebrations, reinforcing its role as a vital part of the neighborhood's fabric.

[1] https://concordiapdx.org/2023/12/alberta-main-street-active-again-and-seeking-volunteers/ [2] https://www.kgw.com/article/news/local/alberta-main-street-nonprofit-portland-embezzlement-investigation/283-7ae9e8e9-c2d3-4fd3-9431-6cce7732a029 [3] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/273399695 [4] https://www.instagram.com/albertamainstreet/ [5] https://www.culturaltrust.org/get-involved/nonprofits/alberta-main-street/