When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Project Lemonade
Why Project Lemonade is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Project Lemonade is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting foster youth in Oregon and Southwest Washington by providing them with resources, opportunities, and a welcoming community to help them succeed. Founded in 2012, Project Lemonade has a compelling mission to inspire self-esteem among foster youth and help them overcome the significant barriers they face, such as poverty, instability, and trauma. The organization achieves this through its flagship Project Lemonade Store, which offers an upscale shopping experience for youth, as well as multiple impactful programs including internships, scholarship grants, and services for youth aging out of care. Their programs have served over 28,000 youth across 35 counties and successfully saved families $3.5 million in clothing costs. The organization also hosts engaging events and pop-up shops, providing essential back-to-school items and customized gifts for graduating youth. The community-oriented Workshop space unites partners and hosts youth programs, further fostering empowerment and connection. With a 4.8-star rating from 43 reviews, Project Lemonade is recognized as a welcoming place that positively impacts young lives, making it a meaningful venue to meet up with friends, engage with the community, and support a worthy cause.
Here's what people think of Project Lemonade
As of recent, Project Lemonade holds a 4.8-star rating based on 43 reviews.
User reviews of Project Lemonade highlight the organization's strong, positive impact on foster youth and their families. Many reviewers praise the staff and volunteers for their dedication, kindness, and ability to create a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where youth feel valued and supported. The quality of the services, especially the shopping experience at the Project Lemonade Store, receives frequent appreciation for offering dignity and choice to foster youth in need. Positive reviews also commend the various programs such as internships, scholarships, and support for youth aging out of foster care, noting how these initiatives help youth gain confidence and practical skills for their futures. On the other hand, some negative feedback touches on occasional logistical challenges with event scheduling or capacity during popular pop-up events. Additionally, a few users mention a desire for expanded geographic reach or more virtual services to support rural youth. Overall, the reviews reflect a community deeply grateful for Project Lemonade’s efforts and recognize its vital role in filling resource gaps for foster youth, while also providing areas for continued growth and improvement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Denny Schuler
Fantastic organization that services foster care kids by supplying new clothing for free. Everything from Sox and underwear to winter coats hats gloves. You be hard pressed to find a better place to make donations!
Kent Lewis
An amazing program for children in the foster system that ensures they have the clothing, support and supplies they need.
Jennifer Malone
Our foster daughter received a wonderful gift of a bicycle and it made her do happy she teared up. She loves riding it around and to and from school. The small gesture made such a huge impact on this girls life. I can't thank you guys enough
Patricia Ballew
My granddaughter is in foster care with my husband and I. The case manager tell us about project lemonade my granddaughter got to the shop on her own and it made her feel good inside there were lots of nice things to choose from and the people there were wonderful and offered extra help with the clothes they had in their warehouse that would get my granddaughter. They were very very helpful. Project lemonade is truly the best it gives my granddaughter a positive self-esteem and it makes her feel big knowing she can do this on her own with very little help from me.
Dezz Mart
Amazing place, been coming here since i was 11 and now im 21. This place and the people have been and done good for me for many years through how rough DHS made life for us kids so coming here would always make me feel 'normal' in a sence that i could actually pick what i wanted from abundance rather than some program assigned clothing closet/ donations. This place aint goin nowhere, if the pandemic didnt take them out nothing will!
How to reach Project Lemonade
None
Website: None
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Project Lemonade is more than just a venue—it’s a vibrant hub of community support and heartfelt philanthropy that offers a unique and fulfilling environment for gathering with friends or family. Rallying here means joining a movement with purpose, where every visit and activity contributes to the well-being of foster youth in the Portland area. This makes any meetup not just fun but also meaningful, as you engage in ways that uplift vulnerable children by providing them with essential clothing and backpacks through the organization’s efforts. With an outstanding 4.8-star rating based on 43 reviews, the positive energy and community spirit that defines Project Lemonade is palpable. Whether you are looking to connect over socially impactful activities, participate in charitable events, or simply enjoy a cozy and intentional space, Project Lemonade makes hosting a gathering with your group both enjoyable and rewarding. Here, your time together also translates into a real difference in young people’s lives, combining social engagement with community care in an inspiring way.
What activities are available at Project Lemonade?
Project Lemonade’s event calendar and activities are tailored to foster connection among participants while supporting foster youth. One standout event series is their annual “Paint the Town Yellow” campaign, which spans the entire month of May, celebrating Foster Care Awareness Month. During this event, participating local businesses like Café Nell, Studio Grey Shop, Frock Boutique, and California Pizza Kitchen collaborate by donating a percentage of sales back to Project Lemonade when patrons mention the organization. This invites groups to shop, dine, and sip specialty items like the Lemon-Aid cocktail while knowing their spending supports a worthy cause. Additionally, events such as boutique shopping nights, candle-making workshops at Glow Gifts + Candles, and exclusive sales give attendees a way to socialize, indulge in unique experiences, and contribute generously. These well-organized events provide perfect opportunities for friends and family to explore shared interests in a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere that encourages both fun and philanthropy.
Why is Project Lemonade perfect for a group meetup?
Project Lemonade’s combination of community-centric activities, welcoming atmosphere, and clear mission makes it an ideal spot for group meetups. The environment encourages bonding through shared purpose, allowing friends or families to connect on a deeper level while supporting foster youths’ needs. The collaborative events with local businesses, such as fashion boutiques and eateries, offer diverse settings to suit various preferences—from casual shopping outings to engaging in creative workshops or enjoying good food and drink together. Furthermore, the organization’s consistent and positive engagement with volunteers, donors, and participants builds a sense of belonging and accomplishment that enhances group experiences. Whether your group’s interest lies in giving back socially or simply spending quality time in an uplifting setting, Project Lemonade harmoniously blends meaningful interaction with enjoyable activities, creating lasting memories and positive impacts.
How does Project Lemonade build community through its events?
Project Lemonade excels at community building by engaging multiple stakeholders—volunteers, local businesses, foster parents, and supporters—in coordinated campaigns that resonate emotionally and socially. By organizing events like “Paint the Town Yellow” that involve retail partners donating proceeds or hosting special events, they weave philanthropy into everyday activities such as dining out or shopping. This strategy transforms routine social behaviors into acts of generosity, fostering a shared identity among attendees who want to help foster youth. Additionally, the organization’s inclusivity in inviting volunteers from various backgrounds, including former foster youth, promotes empathy and collective empowerment. By providing platforms where groups can gather, contribute, and celebrate together, Project Lemonade creates a strong network of community support that extends beyond single events, making meetups more meaningful and rooted in shared values.
What unique experiences can groups expect at Project Lemonade?
Groups visiting Project Lemonade can expect a blend of heartwarming and hands-on experiences that transcend typical social gatherings. For example, workshops such as the candle bar at Glow Gifts + Candles let participants create custom-scented candles and personalized fragrances, adding a creative element to their meetup. Seasonal boutique shopping that benefits foster youth offers exclusive access to spring and summer essentials while supporting a cause. Special cocktail offerings like Café Nell’s Lemon-Aid drink create a festive atmosphere where friends can relax and celebrate philanthropy together. These curated experiences combine leisure and charity seamlessly, ensuring groups enjoy more than just a meet-and-greet—they engage in activities that are interactive, memorable, and socially impactful. This approach defines Project Lemonade as a place where joy and generosity coexist, making every group rendezvous truly unique.
How does Project Lemonade support foster youth, and why does this matter for your meetup?
At its core, Project Lemonade directly addresses the urgent clothing and school supply needs of foster youth, who often face significant challenges transitioning between homes or preparing for new school years. By providing these essentials, the organization helps ease the burden on foster families and promotes dignity and confidence among youth. When groups choose to meet at Project Lemonade or attend its associated events, they actively participate in this cycle of care and support. This communal contribution magnifies the positive impact of the gathering, turning it into a shared mission rather than just another social outing. The knowledge that your time and resources are helping children in need adds profound value and meaning to your meetup, fostering a sense of purpose and collective goodwill.
What makes the atmosphere at Project Lemonade inviting for groups?
The atmosphere at Project Lemonade is defined by warmth, inclusivity, and genuine community spirit. Volunteers and past participants consistently note the welcoming nature of the space and the sincere dedication of the staff and management. This caring environment encourages relaxed, open interactions where guests feel comfortable engaging with each other and the cause. The marriage of charitable mission and social interaction creates a unique vibe that is both motivating and enjoyable. Additionally, the collaboration with local businesses adds vibrant, trendy elements to gatherings—whether through stylish boutiques or cozy café settings—that appeal to diverse tastes. This dynamic yet down-to-earth ambiance makes it easy for groups to connect, unwind, and enjoy meaningful time together while contributing positively.
How can groups maximize their experience when visiting Project Lemonade?
To maximize your meetup experience at Project Lemonade, groups are encouraged to engage fully with the organization’s monthly campaigns and planned events. Mark your calendars for Foster Care Awareness Month in May and participate in the “Paint the Town Yellow” activities—shopping at boutiques, attending special sales, and savoring themed drinks where a portion of proceeds supports foster youth. Volunteering together is another powerful way to deepen group bonds while giving back, as Project Lemonade offers opportunities to help distribute clothes and backpacks directly to foster children. Coordinating visits to multiple partner businesses also diversifies the outing and sustains engagement. Planning ahead by following Project Lemonade’s event calendar and promotional social media allows groups to tailor their visit around fundraising and social opportunities, ensuring a rewarding, fun, and impactful experience that strengthens friendships and community ties.
Why do reviews highlight Project Lemonade as a top choice for social and philanthropic meetups?
Reviews from former volunteers and community members frequently praise Project Lemonade for its exemplary culture, management, and work-life balance, which translate into a well-run organization with a positive public presence. Many reviewers highlight the emotional reward of contributing to foster youth and the welcoming, family-like environment they experienced. The consistent high rating of 4.8 stars reflects strong community trust and satisfaction. Such endorsements are important for groups seeking dependable and enriching venues where socializing and philanthropy align seamlessly. The authentic testimonials attest to Project Lemonade’s powerful impact and the joy participants find in their involvement—making it an ideal setting for groups who want their gatherings to carry deeper significance and measurable social contribution.
What makes Project Lemonade stand out compared to other community meetup spaces?
Project Lemonade stands out because it merges community service with social interaction in a way few meetup venues can. Unlike typical social spaces focused solely on leisure, Project Lemonade’s fundraising and volunteer opportunities embed philanthropy into the core meetup experience. This differentiation attracts groups who value making a difference alongside enjoying quality time. Additionally, its strategic partnerships with local businesses amplify the effect by connecting patrons to nearby shops and eateries that share its mission, creating a vibrant network of social impact across the region. The organization’s clear focus on fostering dignity and support for foster youth gives every event a higher purpose, distinguishing it as a meetup spot where fun meets meaningful action—with strong community endorsements reinforcing its credibility.
How accessible and accommodating is Project Lemonade for larger groups?
Project Lemonade’s approach to collaboration and community involvement naturally supports accommodating larger groups seeking to engage collectively. Through organized events spanning multiple local venues, groups can divide their activities or come together for joint experiences like cocktail nights, boutique shopping excursions, and volunteer engagements. The flexibility of the organization’s partnerships allows for personalized group plans that fit different interests and sizes. Furthermore, Project Lemonade’s reputation for well-managed events and inviting atmosphere means groups can expect smooth coordination and a welcoming reception. Whether gathering a handful of friends or a sizable family reunion, the space and related activities can be tailored to facilitate meaningful and enjoyable interactions, making Project Lemonade a practical and thoughtful choice for diverse group meetups.