Lara Long

Driven by a philosophy that recognizes and promotes equal rights for people, animals, and environment, Lara understands that global change demands global participation. She believes that a real solution grows from a foundation which promotes inclusion, increased diversity, and the understanding that social responsibility & duty are paramount to any movement or paradigm shift.

She has a Bachelor of Science degree in the Social Sciences, emphasizing Cross-Cultural Studies, and a Masters Degree in Public Health Education. Over the past ten years, she has worked at a variety of not-for-profit organizations as an Advocate for victims of domestic violence, a Community Educator who raised awareness and empowered high school students about the realities of sexual assault, a Children’s Services Coordinator at a women’s shelter, a part-time teacher for students with developmental disabilities & severe emotional disorders, a Researcher at a trauma center for victims of sexual assault, a Women’s Health Policy Associate in Washington DC, and as the Development Director for a permanent supportive housing provider in our nation’s capital of homelessness, Los Angeles’ Skid Row.

Lara defines fundraising as community education—it is the process of providing information and opportunity for inclusion & participation in the solution. When given this information along with proper support, people are empowered to take direct action and become advocates for social and environmental justice. Lara firmly believes that working toward sustainability is at the same time a personal effort, a community need, and a requisite for global equality.

Before settling down in Portland, Lara spent the summer of ’09 traversing the U.S. with her fiancé. She enjoys traveling, camping & backpacking, eating & cooking, reading, watching old spaghetti westerns with her cat Rook, and going on bodacious bike rides with her fiancé in search of the best donuts & pizza.