Anyone looking for work is welcome at the SE Works  employment center. And if you have a barrier such as long-term unemployment or a felony in your past, staff can help you overcome. Part of the Oregon WorkSource network, the nonprofit is dedicated to helping people find jobs.

When students arrive at the university they are welcomed into a community that embraces new ideas and encourages you to put them into action.

"It's a good program for kids who have been incarcerated this program gives us a second chance to make a change. I would recommend it to any youth who are struggling."

Getting a job is the first step toward financial independence. Yet despite Oregon's improving unemployment figures, thousands of people can't find work.

Gresham's Rockwood neighborhood is getting ready to Rock the Block on May 31 and June 1. Neighbors are invited to enjoy a community feast, an all-day celebration, and a summer of fun and activities for youth. And Rockwood Nation plans to keep up the momentum all summer long.

On May 23, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell announced $4.2 million in grants to support conservation employment and mentoring opportunities for more than 600 people ages 15-25.

A dispute over a bill under debate in the Oregon Legislature has the City of Portland pitted against Democrats in Salem.  Mayor Charlie Hales and city staff believe the bill -- HB2418-- could destroy chances to improve police accountability in Portland.

Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber is considering legislation that would declare a public safety emergency in some Oregon counties where residents often have been left to try to fend for themselves.
The measure would also impose a temporary income tax on residents of counties unable to pay for public safety workers due to budget cuts.

Lillian Shirley, director of the Multnomah County Health Department was arrested May 20 on a misdemeanor charge of domestic violence.

Ivanice Harris, who went missing in Hawaii last week, has been found dead, according to Honolulu police.