The Blueprint Foundation

Mission

The Blueprint Foundation cultivates the next generation of Black environmental leaders by providing year-round “outdoor school” programming, mentorship, and workforce development in meaningful green careers. Through hands-on, culturally responsive learning, outdoor exploration, and workforce development, participants deepen their relationship with the environment while building the skills and confidence to thrive in environmentally-focused industries.

By tending to the environment, Blueprint youth invest in nature, their communities, and themselves. It is our mission to empower future generations one seed, one tree, one stream at a time.

Bottom Line for Portland

Rooted in community and equity, Blueprint exists to ensure that those historically left out of environmental spaces can plant roots, grow their purpose, and sustain their future. We serve over 140 BIPOC youth and young adults annually in career exploration and environmental stewardship. Our work creates the blueprint for a sustainable future, where every young person can thrive and lead with confidence, resilience, and a commitment to positive change.

Quote

“Being able to experience the purpose of why we’re here, the historical backgrounds, and becoming a support system for youth all around is why I joined. As a former student, I was really shy, but now I’m able to share the work that I’ve done. I’m really happy to be a part of Blueprint, and I’ll forever be a part of it. It may take time to realize the benefits of the program, but as you get older, you’ll realize why it’s so important to be a part of.” — Lashay Gates, former Blueprint student of 7 years, now Program Assistant for Grounding Waters

Partner(s)

This year, we are grateful for the support of our nonprofit and business partners:

Nonprofit Partners

Friends of Trees: A partner in various aspects of our programming, Friends of Trees inspires people to improve the world by planting trees together. 

Friends of Noise:  A new Blueprint partner, Friends of Noise, supports creative youth through all ages concerts, workshops, and experience navigating the PDX music scene.
Friends of Tryon Creek: A valued partner where we take our youth for exploratory learning and Indigenous-led programming. 

Depave: A BRANCH Coalition partner, Depave empowers disenfranchised communities to overcome social and environmental injustices and adapt to climate change through urban re-greening. 

Thank you for amplifying our mission and supporting our work throughout this year's Give!Guide campaign!