Natural Helpers are the super do-ers and the backbones of our community. If you find yourself constantly offering friends and neighbors advice, emotional support and tangible aid, then you’re a Natural Helper! During the Fellowship, Natural Helpers learn how to develop their existing skills further to support their community more fully.

Yes! Whether or not you consider yourself a Natural Helper already, this fellowship is designed to dismantle the barriers to resources in our city and provide opportunities and connections for people who may not consider themselves “leaders” yet.

In collaboration with community partners and civic institutions, Fellows will learn about resources and support available in the Greater Portland area. In addition to seminars that challenge Fellows to think critically about current issues, Fellows will engage in community volunteering, networking opportunities and will make a measurable difference in their communities through the “Impact 5, Teach 10” model.

Sessions will take place from 8 am-4 pm, every other Saturday from February- May.

Most trainings are held at Portland City Hall, however throughout the program there are a number of field trips and experiential activities that take place throughout the Greater Portland region to give fellows exposure to various neighborhoods and organizations.

All locations are accessible by public transportation, and transportation assistance is available if needed.

Applications are due by Friday, November 21st, 2025

After an initial application, OEO invites applicants to an interview. Members of OEO, alongside community leaders and past Natural Helpers, interview and select the next candidates for the fellowship.

The selection process for the Natural Helpers Fellowship occurs in December of each year. After applying, interested applicants will meet with our selection committee for an interview. Final selection occurs in January, at which time we will notify all applicants regarding their acceptance into the program.

Every Natural Helper receives a stipend for their participation in the fellowship. In addition, childcare and transportation stipends are provided, and each Fellow will receive breakfast and lunch during our seminars. Not to mention, each Fellow will also receive an educational certification and leadership badge from USM and a Mayoral certification from the City of Portland.

Yes, you can! If you know someone in your neighborhood or community that is a perfect fit for the Natural Helpers Fellowship, you can nominate them here!

Graduates join our active alumni network and continue to:

• Serve as community resource connectors

• Access ongoing professional development opportunities

• Participate in alumni events and advanced trainings

• Mentor future cohorts

• Lead community initiatives with support from the program

We understand that life happens! Fellows are expected to attend all 8 sessions, but we allow for one excused absence with advance notice. Make-up opportunities are available for missed content. Perfect attendance is recognized at graduation.