MFS Celebrates 75 Years of Service to Portland Communities
MFS is turning 75! From our beginnings after WWII to today’s wraparound services for families, youth, and older adults, Metropolitan Family Service has always stood for connection, equity, and opportunity. We’re proud to celebrate our history — and we invite you to be part of our future. Read on for highlights of our legacy, our vision, and how to join us at this year’s A Gathering of Good celebration.
🎈 Visit our 75th Anniversary page to explore stories, milestones, and the power of people coming together.
Gresham, OR, July 7, 2025 - 75 years ago, Metropolitan Family Service (MFS) opened its doors to families reuniting after World War II as a counseling service. In 2025, MFS still responds to the challenging and growing needs of our communities.
Looking back, MFS has been a trusted community partner that has helped improve the lives of over one million people in the Portland metro area.
Adapting and evolving through the years, providing free programming:
Community Safety Net: Providing food, health fairs, and housing navigation when people need it most.
Economic Empowerment: Helping people gain financial stability, access affordable loans, and build pathways to economic independence.
Intergenerational Work: Connecting older adults to youth in tutoring and mentoring programs.
Community School SUN (Schools Uniting Neighborhoods) System: Since its inception, it has provided 20+ years of wraparound services at schools for tens of thousands of students and families.
Early Childhood Development: Programs like Ready, Set, Go! Foster family-centered school and social-emotional readiness for parents and students in the classroom and at home.
Innovation and Partnerships: Piloting neighborhood climate initiatives, securing PCEF investments, and focusing on community-driven solutions.
Looking to the future, MFS continually develops solutions and innovative ideas to address community needs.
To continue this great work, on September 25, 2025, the public is cordially invited to attend our fundraiser, A Gathering of Good (AGOG), to be held at the Portland Art Museum Grand Ballroom. The evening will set the stage for new opportunities and growth for our communities in the years to come. Former Governor Kitzhaber will be the keynote speaker. Regional Emmy winner, Mr. Ken Boddie, will emcee. Please join us.
To sign up to receive an Invitation to AGOG, please click here: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/d454c29b58ea4883a166c10dc08e64e4
We believe the best is yet to come.
More about MFS:
“We know that equity, access, and community matter,” said Judy Strand, MFS CEO. “In a time when many people are feeling isolated or left behind, our programs connect people of all ages to the tools and support they need to thrive.”
MFS programs focus on early childhood development and youth success, economic empowerment, and community-based health and wellness, reaching more than 24,000 people annually across the tri-county area. MFS collaborates with more than 400 public and private partners and coordinates over 2,000 volunteers who contribute an estimated 70,000 hours of service annually. Programs are offered at no cost and are embedded in schools and neighborhoods where resources are often lacking.
Please visit our website at mfspdx.org for more information and to donate. For more information and inquiries for interviews, contact Cyndi Rhoads at cyndir@mfs.email or phone (503) 750-9337.
