Published: March 28, 2025
It is with a heavy heart that we share the need to pause the Portland Quaker Voluntary Service Fellowship program for the 2025-2026 program year. While we have interested applicants, we were unable to secure enough site placements in Portland. The board approved funding in the upcoming budget towards the intention of reopening the Portland house the following program year (2026-2027).
We understand this is disappointing news. Unfortunately, we face this new challenge as we continue to feel the effects of the pandemic and a rapidly shifting economy. We heard from local organizations about the impact of federal funding freezes. Some sites are already feeling the loss of this support while other organizations prepare for more uncertainty.
We will be investing in a part-time staff person beginning in October to prepare for re-opening the Portland program for the 2026-2027 program year. If you have questions or concerns, please be in touch by emailing [email protected].
Thank you for your continued partnership and support as we work in a continually unfolding landscape.