Neighborhood Nonprofit Spotlight: Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association

The Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association (ORLA) talks to Patch about the great work it's doing for the different businesses in the Oregon community.

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Patch: Tell Patch a little about your organization!

ORLA: The Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association (ORLA) is the leading business association for the food service and lodging industry in Oregon. A not-for-profit trade organization, ORLA represents over 3,000 members, and advocates for 9,000 food service locations and 2,200 lodging establishments in Oregon. The food service and lodging industry is responsible for 164,800 jobs bringing in over $8 billion in annual sales and generates 54% of the annual tourism dollars spent in Oregon.

Patch: How does your organization help to strengthen the local community?

ORLA: ORLA protects and promotes the interests of the hospitality industry by advocating for, communicating with, and training Oregon's restaurant and lodging establishments. We serve as a one-stop resource of information, services, and representation of our members.

Patch: What is the biggest struggle your organization faces?

ORLA: ORLA is on the front lines advocating for our members to help prevent bad policy, encourage good policy and educate and inform elected officials about the issues and challenges our industry faces.

Patch: What do you hope for the future of your nonprofit?

ORLA: To continue strengthening our organization in our mission to protect and promote the interests of the hospitality industry.

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