p:ear

Last Chance Textiles visited p:ear and introduced p:ear youth to the art of cyanotype—a historic photographic printing process that uses sunlight to create vibrant blue images. During the workshop, youth learned about the history and cultural significance of the process before creating custom bandanas using flowers from our flower works program and found objects.

It was an excitement creative afternoon of watching each unique piece develop in the sun.

We're always grateful for clothing donations from our local partners—and this is a big one! Access to weather-appropriate clothing, quality outdoor gear, and everyday essentials makes a meaningful difference, helping young people stay comfortable, prepared, and supported while navigating daily life, work opportunities and outdoor adventures.

Doing some spring cleaning? Think of p:ear! If you have clothing donations you'd like to pass along, drop them off at p:ear Monday-Friday between 9am-3pm.

p:ear is proud to be included in White Bird's NEST (No Empty Seats Today) program, which partners with Portland nonprofits to provide access to world-class dance performances for youth and community members.

Recently, a group of p:ear youth enjoyed a special evening together that included dinner and tickets to the sold-out Dance Theatre of Harlem performance. It was an inspiring experience for the young people who attended.

Huge thank you to and everyone who helps make the NEST program possible!

This week at p:ear DM with any questions🙂

Did you know we offer drop-in financial guidance for p:ear youth? With help from our community partners like Jess at , and NW Cedar Financial, and , youth receive hands-on support with banking, collections, budgeting, growing their credit, and more.

By building these practical skills alongside trusted mentors, young people are gaining the tools and confidence to move toward greater financial stability and a stronger future.

p:ear youth have been learning from and working with Mai Ide ( ), whose workshops share the Japanese value of “Mottainai” -do not waste, use everything, through sewing, mending, and sustainable art practices.

She also shared the tradition of Sashiko stitching, embracing repair, imperfection, and the stories carried in our clothing. With these skills youth are invited to see mending not just as a skill, but as a reflection of resilience, healing, and self-expression.

Our Wilderness Rec program continues to create space for adventure, connection, and growth. p:ear youth hit the trails for snowshoeing and hiking alongside our partners .58

These shared experiences deepen relationships with fellow nonprofits, strengthening a network of support that extends beyond a single outing.

Thanks, .58 !

You’re invited to join us for the closing of All Hands Make Light.

An evening of photography, storytelling, and community featuring a panel with p:ear youth and artists, plus Pride in Numbers sharing their community-led research and art based project centering Two-Spirit & LGBTQIA+ voices.

Come celebrate, connect, and be part of the conversation!

May 7th, 5PM–7PM
Studio 516 — 516 NW 17th Ave
(Doors open at 5PM; Panel begins at 6PM)
Light snacks and drinks provided

We are still taking it all in!

We truly can’t put into words the love we felt last weekend. Thank you for showing up, cheering us on, and supporting p:ear’s work!

For 24 years, p:ear Blossoms has celebrated the power of young people to author their own futures. This year’s theme was Compose — to arrange, to create order from chaos, to take what’s in front of you and make something that didn’t exist before.

From the film and live score to the dynamic duo of (MC) and (Auctioneer) leading the room— every moment was filled with creativity, connection, generosity, and heartfelt care for the young people at the heart of the p:ear community.

It takes a deeply talented team to put on an event like this, and we are so grateful for the incredible creatives, collaborators, partners, and supporters who made it all happen. THANK YOU!

If you couldn’t join us this time… You can still support p:ear by spreading the word, volunteering, or donating directly. Link in bio.

Film
p:ear youth !
(Director)
(Producer)
(Director of Photography)

Music & Performance


Elizabeth Doty (Violin)
Cecille Elliot (Violin)
Edward Young (Viola)
Aubrey Turner (Cello)

Creative & Production










Food & Beverage