Who We Are
The Centennial Community Association (CCA) is the City-recognized neighborhood association of the Centennial Neighborhood. The purpose of the CCA is to improve the quality of life for everyone in the community, and to create open, honest communication between neighbors and the people and organizations that affect our neighborhood.
The CCA is one of 94 officially recognized neighborhood associations in the City of Portland. Neighborhood associations are the way that neighbors come together to address important issues and build a sense of community and belonging.
The CCA works on issues that matter to residents, including parks, housing, safety, local services, and making sure that city and county decisions reflect the needs of our community. The CCA advocates for all residents — renters and homeowners, long-time residents and newcomers, families with children and older adults.
Centennial Commons
Centennial Commons is a collaborative space held by Centennial Community Association. Established in 2023, this community effort is motivated by and supportive of the idea of a Community Commons as defined by Karl Linn, in 2007.
“A neighborhood commons is a shared community space where neighborhood residents can come together to celebrate life, and young and old can be in each other’s presence but not in each other’s way. It can be a small-scale, multi-use facility, combining a sitting area, tot lot, playground, park, and community garden, designed and constructed on one or more vacant lots by residents, volunteer professionals, and youth work teams.”
Building Commons and Community by Karl Linn, published by New Village Press in 2007.
Partners look forward to creating new public spaces where the Centennial neighborhood residents and families can live in healthy environments, thrive, work, learn and build wealth in a connected community.
Centennial Community Association is led by a Board elected by CCA members. Current Board members are as follows:
- Benjamin Lostheart (he/him), Board Chair
- Nathan Zilka (he/him), Board Vice Chair
- David Linn (he/him), Board Treasurer
- Karen Wolfgang (she/her), Board Secretary
- Ian Rees (he/him), At-Large Board Member and Parks and Greenspaces Committee Chair
- Lorena Mora (she/her), At-Large Board Member
- Sherry Willmschen (she/her), At-Large Board Member
Centennial Community Resilience Network (CCRN)
The Centennial Community Resilience Network is a committee of the CCA and a partnership of many community organizations. The network focuses on building a resilience hub in the neighborhood and helping residents support one another during emergencies and everyday challenges.
Community Partners
The CCA works alongside many dedicated organizations, including Guerreras Latinas, a group of over 800 women that provides resources, support, and leadership opportunities for Latina women in East Portland; the Rosewood Initiative, a community anchor for East Portland residents; the Somali Oregon Service Center; and many others. The Centennial School District bridges Portland and Gresham, serving approximately 5,800 students at 11 school sites, with a mission built around equity and community.
Get Involved
The CCA holds board meetings on the first Thursday of odd-numbered months. Meetings are open to all residents. You do not need to be a citizen, a homeowner, or a long-time resident to participate. All are welcome.
Whether you want to come to a meeting, join a committee, or just learn more about your neighborhood — we would love to hear from you.