The Port of Hood River Foundation is seeking engaged community leaders to join the Board of Directors of this newly formed nonprofit. This is a unique opportunity for passionate and community-focused individuals to help shape the future of our community and recreational spaces.

Established in October 2024, the Foundation is dedicated to sustaining and enhancing the Port’s community-serving properties, including the Hood River waterfront recreation areas and the Ken Jernstedt Airfield.

Why Join the Board

Board service provides a meaningful way to give back to the community, support the stewardship of vital public spaces, and help advance opportunities for recreation, economic development, and aviation in the Gorge.

As a Board member, you will play a critical role in shaping the Foundation’s strategic direction, guiding initiatives, and ensuring that the Foundation’s work remains aligned with community priorities.

Who We Are Looking For

The Foundation welcomes interest from individuals that are 18 years and older, from diverse backgrounds, and who are committed to public service and eager to make a positive impact. In particular, the Board is seeking individuals with interest or expertise in:

• Waterfront opportunities in the Port’s Hood River waterfront areas
• Aviation opportunities at the Ken Jernstedt Airfield

Board members should also:

• Have a strong commitment and passion for the Hood River and Columbia Gorge;
• Have a background in business, community development, finance, environmental sustainability, aviation, and watersports;
• Bring new ideas and innovation to help reach the Foundation’s goals; and
• Be strong communicators who can collaborate with other community leaders and stakeholders.

Board Member Responsibilities

As a member of the Board of Directors, you will:

• Attend regular Board meetings and participate in discussion and the decision-making process.
• Support fundraising efforts and contribute to the sustainability of the foundation’s mission.
• Act as an ambassador to the community, fostering community partnerships while promoting the foundation’s work.
• Provide guidance to the foundation’s initiatives and programs.

How to Apply

Interest Forms may be submitted in one of the following ways:

• Online: Complete and submit the Electronic Interest Form (see form below)
• Email: Download and send the completed application form to info@portofhoodriver.com
• Mail: Download and send the completed application form to: Port of Hood River Foundation, 1000 E. Port Marina Drive, Hood River, OR 97031

The call for applications will remain open until all Board seats are filled. The first round of application reviews will begin Friday, October 17, 2025.

Interest Form - Review Criteria

Interest forms will be reviewed and scored based on the following criteria:

1. Mission Alignment: Does the candidate express a connection to the Foundation’s mission and enthusiasm for the waterfront and/or aviation community?
2. Relevant Expertise: Does the candidate bring professional or lived experience in areas the Foundation prioritizes (e.g., business, community development, finance, environmental sustainability, aviation and watersports)?
3. Collaboration and Communication: Does the candidate demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively with fellow Board members, actively listen to diverse perspectives and engage constructively with community in support of the Foundation’s mission?
4. Community Leadership: Has the candidate volunteered or served on other boards or local nonprofit organizations? Do they have a proven track record of community involvement?
5. References: Do the submitted references speak positively to the candidate’s leadership, reliability and community commitment?

Electronic Interest Form