Neighborhood Nonprofit Spotlight: Oregon Road Runners Club

Patch talks to Oregon Road Runners Club about the different running and walking marathon events it holds to raise money for other community organizations.

Patch: Tell Patch a little bit about your organization!

Oregon Road Runners Club: Oregon Road Runners Club is the largest membership running club on the West Coast, founded almost 50 years ago. ORRC started Portland Marathon and Hood to Coast Relay, and later spun off those race events to the then ORRC president. We host approximately 7,500 runners and walkers annually at our 15 events, with our largest event the family oriented Turkey Trot at the Zoo, Thanksgiving morning.

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

Oregon Road Runners Club: Oregon Road Runners Club hosts 15 annual race events throughout the Portland Metro region, promoting running and walking as healthy lifestyles. ORRC also contribute over $25,000 annually to other nonprofits serving the community and to kids' school running programs.

Patch: What is the biggest struggle your organization faces?

Oregon Road Runners Club: Getting enough volunteers to carry out our 7 year strategic plan, and competing with the for-profit race event companies with deep pockets and full time staff.

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

Oregon Road Runners Club: To remain a competitive resources for runners and walkers.

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