The Portland Chapter has been a chartered affiliate of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) since 1956.
Its current members include more than 100 officers representing all seven uniformed services and all grades from warrant officer
to flag officer and 50 Surviving Spouse members. Through its various committees, staffed with regular and Surviving Spouse members,
the chapter sponsors a wide range of programs and activities throughout the year. Here are some highlights:
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The Program Committee arranges the monthly chapter meetings for members, spouses, and guests. Dinner meetings are held on the first Tuesday in September, December, and June. Brunch meetings are held on the first Saturday in October, November, February, March, April, and May. Chapter meetings begin with a social time, and, after the meal, there is a presentation by a guest speaker on a topic of particular interest (usually with a military theme). In December of each year, the chapter celebrates the holiday season with a special dinner meeting, involving such items as a guest speaker or entertainment of some sort, remembrance of Pearl Harbor, singing of Christmas carols, wearing of military uniforms or festive attire, and conducting a raffle to win Gift Baskets and Quality Bottles of Wine; the tickets sold fund the current Chapter Charity.
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The Membership Committee has seen significant success due to its strategic approach and commitment to member engagement. First, the committee has actively pursued outreach initiatives, connecting with retired, active, and former officers in the Portland area through targeted events, informational sessions, and social gatherings. Additionally, the committee prioritizes building relationships with local military and veteran communities, creating a strong network of referral sources and potential members. The use of consistent communication channels, such as newsletters and online platforms, helps keep current members informed and engaged while also serving as a recruitment tool for prospective members. The committee’s success is also rooted in a welcoming and inclusive culture, where potential members feel valued and informed about the tangible benefits of MOAA membership, including advocacy, camaraderie, and professional development. By combining these efforts with a clear focus on the chapter’s mission, the committee has cultivated sustained growth and an active, vibrant membership.
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Our Legislative Committee is deeply involved in promoting state and national legislation in the interests of service members (active, retired, and former), their families, and survivors.
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Our Personal Affairs Committee is always standing by to "take care of our own".
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Our Communication Committee publishes an award-winning monthly newsletter, with interesting and useful information, which is distributed to each member. The latest issue can be found on our award-winning chapter website, www.moaaportland.net.
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The Special Events Committee arranges for the MOAA Leadership Awards, chapter scholarships, and Gold Bars to be distributed to distinguished AROTC and AFROTC cadets at the University of Portland. The committee also supports the Army JROTC cadets at Oregon City High School and Reynolds High School and provides $800 annually to help fund JROTC projects or make it possible for several JROTC cadets to attend the JROTC Annual Leadership Conference in Tacoma, WA.
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The Fundraising Committee has ensured the endowment of $75,000 for the first three MOAA designated scholarships in the Northwest; provided $5,000 to the Oregon World War II Memorial; donated $2,643 to the USO Renovation at PDX; give $2,500 to the USS Portland Commissioning; gifted $500 to the 2023 Oregon Women Veterans' Conference; gave $3,127.50 for the 750 challenge coins distributed for the 2023 National Veterans Wheelchair Games; and donated $5,000 to the Oregon Capitol Vietnam War Memorial.
which is excellent at explaining our reasons for existing and our various initiatives.
