The congregation was formed in 1944 by African Americans who moved to the area to work in the shipyards during World War II. The congregation grew so fast that it moved multiple times between 1950 and 1960 in search of adequate space. Its current building, the former Central Methodist Episcopal Church, was designed by architect Richard H. Martin Jr. in 1909 with a barn-like form and Gothic ornamentation. The church played a leading role regionally during the Civil Rights movement as a space for social organization and political forums, and the building has become a symbol of the congregation’s strength in the face of racial inequality and gentrification.

Today, Vancouver Avenue First Baptist provides comprehensive services to its low-income neighbors. The Saturday Samaritan Homeless Ministry provides a hot meal, clothing, and social services to those in need. Impact NW offers anti-poverty programs, including early childhood and family services, safety net programs, and assistance for seniors and adults with disabilities. The Drum Major Scholarship Program has awarded more than 500 scholarships to high schoolers since it began in 2006. Vancouver Avenue First Baptist also has a trained counselor on-site who provides pay-what-you-can services to the community.

A National Fund grant of $250,000 with $500,000 in matching funds raised by the congregation will allow Vancouver Avenue First Baptist to renovate several community spaces, install energy-efficient equipment, and improve accessibility. Future phases of the project will create space for Portland’s first permanent African American Museum.

Vancouver Avenue First Baptist Church courtesy Vancouver Avenue First Baptist Church