When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Feed the Mass
Why Feed the Mass is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Feed the Mass is a thriving nonprofit organization based in Portland, Oregon, dedicated to combating food insecurity while fostering community empowerment and education through culinary arts. Since its founding in 2016 by Jacobsen Valentine, a passionate leader with deep roots in the food industry and a commitment to social impact, Feed the Mass has served over 500,000 meals and saved more than 700,000 pounds of food waste. What makes Feed the Mass a remarkable place to meet up with friends is its unique blend of mission-driven food service and community engagement. They offer vibrant cooking classes led by Chef Valentine that are both educational and enjoyable, often featuring diverse cuisines such as street tacos, making communal learning around food an inviting experience. Beyond just nourishment, the organization prioritizes empowering individuals by teaching culinary skills and educating on nutrition, promoting healthier lifestyles in Portland’s diverse and underserved populations. Their programs, including partnership with initiatives like the Artist Mentorship Program (AMP), catalyze personal growth and social justice, further enriching community connections. Feed the Mass also maintains a practical and compassionate approach by rescuing surplus food that would otherwise be wasted and transforming it into nutritious meals accessible to anyone in need within 48 hours. This integrated strategy of serving, educating, and empowering makes Feed the Mass an inspiring and welcoming hub for friends and community members to gather, learn, and positively impact local food equity.
Here's what people think of Feed the Mass
As of recent, Feed the Mass holds a 4.8-star rating based on 86 reviews.
Users consistently rate Feed the Mass highly, with an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 86 reviews, highlighting the organization's effectiveness and warmth. Positive reviews emphasize the friendly and patient demeanor of Chef Valentine, especially enjoyed in the cooking classes where participants find the atmosphere fun, inclusive, and culturally rich. Reviewers praise the nonprofit’s commitment to quality nutrition, equitable food access, and the innovative use of rescued food waste, noting how impactful and necessary these efforts are to Portland’s community. Many appreciate the educational aspect that goes beyond serving meals, creating valuable opportunities to learn cooking and nutrition skills. On the other hand, some negative reviews hint at occasional logistical challenges such as wait times or reservation complexities for classes and meal access, reflecting the high demand on their services. Additionally, a few users express a desire for expanded class schedules or more variety in offerings. Despite this, the overall sentiment remains strongly affirmative, recognizing Feed the Mass’s positive local impact and dedication to combating food insecurity in sustainable and community-focused ways. In conclusion, user feedback portrays Feed the Mass as a well-loved and respected nonprofit that successfully combines food rescue, education, and social empowerment — making it a standout resource and gathering place in the Portland area.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Chris Trejbal
Chef Jacob led a wonderful class that ended with a delicious shared meal for everyone. Highly recommend to learn new cooking skills or bone up on old ones. The plates were cleaned.
Hailey Staiger
Loved my first class (chicken pho) tonight!!! Chef Jacob is awesome, patient, knowledgeable, and hilarious. Such a pleasure to be in his class. I learned SO much and had a delicious meal to boot. Thank you Chef for a fun delicious evening and I can’t wait for my next class!!
Evan Qualtrough
Our work group went here tonight and had a blast!! Making pasta was easier and way more fun than I thought it would be. Jacob was laid back and funny, and also very informative. I love that this is all for a good cause as well. Highly recommend! #trythemeatballs
M V
An awesome evening! We came as a work group. Perfect for team building and a great time. Chef Jacob guided us through prepping a great pasta meal with humor, songs, and learning valuable new skills. Anyone with any skill level will be able to join in on making the food a huge success. I will be back with friends and family. I highly recommend this experience for everyone. And we helped others to follow their dreams of attending cooking school. It doesn't get any better than that.
Duane Austin
Jacob is an amazing instructor and great person! He gets down to the small details important in everyday cooking and truly cares about making everyone better in their skillsets. I learned so much and the people in the class were so friendly and fun. I would recommend this class to everyone I know because it's simple, fun and an overall amazing experience all for a good cause.
How to reach Feed the Mass
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Website: None
Why Feed the Mass may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Feed the Mass with your friends? Because it’s more than just a place to eat—it’s a vibrant community hub that brings people together through the power of food, education, and shared values. With an outstanding 4.8-star rating from 86 reviews, Feed the Mass has quickly established itself as a trusted and beloved destination in Portland. Whether you want to enjoy a delicious meal, learn new culinary skills, or simply connect with like-minded individuals who care about making a positive impact, Feed the Mass offers the perfect environment. Gathering here means supporting a nonprofit organization deeply invested in combating food insecurity and waste while empowering the community through education and service. This commitment creates a unique atmosphere charged with purpose and warmth, making your meetup not just enjoyable but meaningful. Friends and family can bond over gourmet-inspired dishes crafted from rescued food, participate in hands-on cooking classes, and even get involved in community programs, ensuring your time together is fulfilling on every level.
What activities does Feed the Mass offer for groups? Feed the Mass provides an array of engaging activities ideal for gatherings, promoting both fun and impact. For starters, cooking classes led by Chef Jacobsen Valentine, the founder and passionate culinary educator, are a highlight. These sessions are not only interactive and informative but also hilarious and approachable, making them perfect for groups wanting to learn new recipes like chicken pho in a lively setting. Beyond culinary education, guests can enjoy chef-prepared meals made from top-quality repurposed ingredients that emphasize sustainability and flavor. The organization also facilitates collaborative events where groups can participate in food recovery and community service, turning social meetups into opportunities to give back. Whether your group prefers hands-on experiences or simply enjoying exceptional food together, Feed the Mass offers tailored options that engage all ages and interests, making every visit rewarding and dynamic.
Why is Feed the Mass the perfect place for group meetups? The secret lies in its holistic approach to community, food, and education. Unlike conventional restaurants, Feed the Mass creates an environment where social interaction is infused with food justice and sustainability goals. Spaces here are designed to foster connection—not only between friends but also between ideas and causes that matter. The venue is spacious and welcoming, accommodating the energy of lively group gatherings comfortably. Because the mission centers on empowerment, meetups at Feed the Mass often inspire conversations about nutrition, equity, and creativity around meals. Moreover, knowing that every dish served contributes to fighting food waste and hunger makes coming together feel impactful. The staff’s warmth and attentiveness enhance the experience, ensuring your group feels valued and well cared for. Essentially, Feed the Mass transforms a simple outing into a memorable event that nourishes body, mind, and community spirit.
How does Feed the Mass empower and educate while serving delicious food? At the core of Feed the Mass’s mission is a commitment to empower, educate, and serve through food. The organization delivers culinary education that equips people with practical skills and nutritional knowledge, encouraging healthier, more self-sufficient lifestyles. Cooking classes are more than just recipe tutorials—they offer lessons in food sustainability, cultural food traditions, and the importance of rescuing edible food destined for waste. These programs help demystify cooking for all skill levels, nurturing confidence and creativity in the kitchen. Meanwhile, every meal served contributes to combating food insecurity with high-quality, nutritious options that highlight seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. This combination makes dining at Feed the Mass an experience of learning and community support, where your palate and your principles align seamlessly.
What community programs and partnerships make Feed the Mass stand out? Feed the Mass’s impact extends far beyond its kitchen through strategic partnerships and innovative programs. A standout project is the Artist Mentorship Program (AMP), which serves youth by building confidence and skills in an inclusive environment infused with creativity and social justice values. These collaborations amplify the organization’s outreach, creating a network of support for underserved populations around Portland. Furthermore, Feed the Mass has efficiently saved over 700,000 pounds of food waste, redistributing it through 16 partner agencies to maximize community benefit. This comprehensive approach integrates art, education, and food redistribution, distinguishing Feed the Mass as a leader in sustaining Portland’s social fabric. For groups meeting here, this means your gathering indirectly supports a remarkable ecosystem of care and empowerment rooted in equity and mutual respect.
How can visiting Feed the Mass be a fulfilling social experience? At Feed the Mass, socializing patterns take on new meaning as every interaction is enriched by shared values and collective purpose. Gathering with friends here creates an atmosphere of camaraderie and mutual inspiration, fueled by delicious meals and meaningful conversations about food justice. The venue’s team encourages inclusivity and participation, so every group member feels engaged whether cooking side-by-side or enjoying thoughtfully prepared cuisine. The nourishing food acts as a catalyst for laughter and dialogue, while the educational components invite curiosity and reflection. This holistic engagement turns a typical meetup into a celebration of community resilience and creativity. Plus, the satisfaction of contributing to a larger cause while enjoying quality time with loved ones makes every visit deeply rewarding on both personal and social levels.
In what ways does Feed the Mass contribute to sustainability and food waste reduction? Sustainability is a cornerstone of Feed the Mass’s philosophy and operations. By rescuing surplus food and transforming it into delicious meals, the organization drastically reduces food waste that would otherwise end up in landfills. More than 700,000 pounds of food have been saved so far, reflecting committed environmental stewardship alongside social advocacy. This sustainable practice not only minimizes ecological footprints but also enhances food accessibility for those facing insecurity. Guests dining or participating in programs at Feed the Mass contribute to this positive cycle, supporting a model that respects both people and the planet. For groups, this makes choosing Feed the Mass both a responsible and rewarding decision, integrating enjoyment with impactful environmental action.
What unique culinary experiences can groups expect at Feed the Mass? Culinary offerings at Feed the Mass reflect creativity and purpose, transcending conventional nonprofit dining. Chef Jacobsen Valentine, an expert with a joyful teaching style, crafts menus that celebrate local flavors and cultural diversity while adhering to principles of sustainability. Dishes like chicken pho showcase the blend of culinary sophistication and approachable instruction that characterize the kitchen. Whether tasting a meal crafted from rescued ingredients or engaging in a lively cooking class, guests enjoy rich sensory experiences that honor taste and nutrition equally. Unique to Feed the Mass is the seamless melding of education, community service, and gourmet cuisine—each meal or class is a chance to discover new flavors and culinary techniques while connecting with meaningful causes. This makes group visits both enjoyable and enriching in equal measure.
How does the atmosphere at Feed the Mass encourage connection among friends and family? The ambiance at Feed the Mass is thoughtfully curated to inspire warmth, inclusivity, and open interaction. Natural light, communal tables, and inviting décor foster a relaxed yet purposeful setting where guests feel comfortable and connected. Staff members are attentive and nurturing, creating a welcoming environment that encourages group participation and shared enjoyment. The organization’s uplifting mission permeates the space, reinforcing a collective sense of contribution and belonging. This atmosphere lets social gatherings flourish naturally, with food acting as the centerpiece for storytelling, laughter, and bonding. For friends and family looking for a meetup spot that combines comfort with community spirit, Feed the Mass offers an ideal environment filled with energy and heart.
Why choose Feed the Mass for your next social or celebratory event? Hosting an event at Feed the Mass guarantees a unique experience that blends culinary delight with social impact. The venue supports a variety of group sizes, making it adaptable for intimate family dinners or larger friend gatherings. Its nonprofit nature imbues celebrations with meaning, turning ordinary occasions into opportunities to raise awareness and support community health. Whether you want to surprise friends with a cooking class, organize a shared meal featuring rescued food, or combine fun with a cause through volunteer opportunities, Feed the Mass accommodates it all. This distinctive model creates lasting memories as guests enjoy excellent food while actively contributing to local food justice initiatives. Choosing Feed the Mass is choosing an event space that fuels connection, learning, and generosity all at once.
What makes Feed the Mass’s service and staff exceptional for group meetups? The staff at Feed the Mass consistently receive praise for their professionalism, warmth, and dedication. They create individualized experiences that anticipate group needs and accommodate dietary preferences, including gluten-free options. Their enthusiasm for the mission shines through in every interaction, ensuring that guests not only feel well served but also inspired. Whether guiding a cooking class, explaining food sourcing practices, or simply attending to meal service, the team embodies hospitality infused with passion and care. This elevates group gatherings from routine to remarkable, making everyone from close-knit families to large friend circles feel appreciated and engaged. The strong relationship between staff and guests fosters trust and rapport, essential ingredients for successful, repeat meetups.
How accessible and convenient is Feed the Mass for visitors? Located in Portland, Feed the Mass is easily accessible by car or public transit, making it convenient for local and visiting groups alike. The venue’s layout is designed to accommodate varying group sizes comfortably without crowding, with flexible seating arrangements to suit different activities. Reservations and program bookings are straightforward, supported by attentive coordination to meet special requests. This ease of access and reliability makes planning group events stress-free, ensuring your focus remains on enjoying time together. Additionally, Feed the Mass’s commitment to inclusivity includes accommodating dietary restrictions and offering diverse menu options. Altogether, these factors make Feed the Mass a practical and thoughtful choice for any group seeking a memorable, hassle-free meetup location.