In the Community 

What’s Good for Central Oregon…

The Old Mill District and its shops have a core belief that what’s good for Central Oregon is good for everyone. Having a strong community is a big part of why people live and love living in Central Oregon. In fact, the Old Mill District has provided support to more than 100 local and regional non-profit organizations since 2000.

“Not only do we as a company make it a priority to become involved in our community and charitable causes, but many of our shops and restaurants feel the same,” said Noelle Fredland, marketing director for the Old Mill District. “We are constantly discovering new significant ways that those involved with the Old Mill are giving back to our community and making Bend an even better place to live.”

There are several great examples of individual retailers launching philanthropic campaigns. Just a few include:
• Acadia Shoes participates in the international “Soles for Souls” charity, which provides shoes for underprivileged people both domestically and in 61 countries around the world.
• J.Jill’s “Open Your Closet and Open Your Heart” event takes in gently used clothing and donated it to women in need in the local community.
• REI spends more than 1,000 volunteer hours in the community: for example, they helped to secure grants and workers to construct a new Nordic ski shelter.
• The Gap provides support for “The Loft”, a non-profit dedicated to helping homeless teens.

Fredland continued, “We are proud to be associated with businesses that have a passion for giving. Providing support to services and charities that truly make a difference for people in need is a vital part of being in business here.”

One of the most visual displays of the Old Mill District’s community participation is its “Banner Program.” More than 312 banners line the streets of the district at any given time, and many highlight local organizations, events and non-profits that work every day to make Central Oregon what it is: a great place to live, work and raise a family.