Neighborhood Clean-Ups Make a Difference

[February 9, 2026}

Contributed by Julie Leet, Multnomah Neighborhood Association Secretary & Livability Chair

On Monday, January 19 MLK Day, the Multnomah Neighborhood Association, in partnership with SOLVE Oregon and the Hillsdale neighborhood, held our 3rd annual MLK Day Trash Clean‑Up, and wow—our community showed up in force.

We tackled a long‑neglected 1/8‑mile stretch of frontage road along SW Multnomah Blvd (between SW Barbur and I‑5, across from Burlingame Fred Meyer). What started as a forgotten patch of roadway turned into a perfect place to honor Dr. King’s legacy through service.

All 40 volunteer spots filled almost instantly, so we opened more—and ended up with 46 incredible volunteers ready to roll. On a chilly but sunny January morning, this crew grabbed gloves, trash pickers, and a whole lot of determination.

In just two hours, the transformation was unbelievable:

• 4,400 lbs of debris removed — that’s 2.2 tons

• 25 tires collected

• Three shopping carts retrieved and reported

The area went from debris‑covered to clean, safe, and naturally beautiful again. Volunteers removed all kinds of trash and biohazards, restoring a space that had been overlooked for years.

Even better, the clean‑up brought people together. Neighbors met neighbors, and folks came from as far as Sellwood and inner SE Portland to pitch in. And yes—Sesame Donuts absolutely fueled the magic.

Thank you to everyone who showed up, worked hard, and made a real impact. This is what community looks like.

If you have a recommendation for a future clean up area, please send an email to Julie Leet – Secretary@mnapdx.org.

But Wait, there is more! Multnomah and Hillsdale are teaming up for another SOLVE trash clean up event, this time with fabulous prizes!

Where: In the neighborhood! Sign in at Mittleman Jewish Community Center

When: Saturday April 4, 2026 9am-11am

Details and sign-up here.

If you can't make this event, stay tuned for another SOLVE Event to celebrate Earth Day in Multnomah Village on Saturday April 18, 2026.

About SOLVE Oregon: A statewide nonprofit mobilizing volunteers to care for Oregon’s neighborhoods, waterways, and natural spaces. Visit SOLVE’s website to discover upcoming cleanups and volunteer opportunities near you.

About Multnomah Neighborhood Association: A volunteer-led non-profit connecting neighbors and advocating for a cleaner, safer and more welcoming community in SW Portland. Sign up here to be made aware of similar future events, service projects, and ways to get involved.

Real change starts right where we live—visit our websites, sign up, and take part in the next opportunity to care for our community together.

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Questions? Comments? Let us know.