Programs
With Purpose

Explore the exchanges, partnerships, and initiatives making an impact in Portland and Guadalajara.

Our Initiatives

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Portland's premier cultural festival — celebrating Latino art, music, cuisine and the deep friendship between Portland and Guadalajara. Tens of thousands gather every spring for this iconic event.

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Portland Bomberos Latinos Association

Portland Bomberos Latinos Association

The Portland Bombero Program got its start in 1999, when then Chief Ed Wilson asked Firefighter Jose Troncoso to accompany him to Guadalajara as a translator. Together with PGSCA, Portland Fire donated a Fire Engine to the Guadalajara Fire Department.

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More Initiatives

Over the years, PGSCA has supported a wide range of projects that strengthen the bond between Portland and Guadalajara — from art and culture to technology and public safety.

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Sister City International Summit

PGSCA was invited by the City of Guadalajara to present at the Sister City International Summit — sharing the Portland–Guadalajara story with 175 sister city partners from around the world.

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Guadalajara–Portland Sister Board

In collaboration with the Director of International Relations for the City of Guadalajara, a complementary board of 20 members was established to maintain a persistent presence in both cities and expand networks and resources.

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Bomberos Latinos International Academy
Bomberos Latinos International Academy

Portland Fire & Rescue created a training school in Guadalajara where 40 Latin American firefighters participated in a week-long course. Recent graduates were among the first responders to the September 19th Central Mexico Earthquake.

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Digital Door (Puerta Digital)

With support from Intel GDC and Intel Portland, two digital "portals" were built — connecting the people of Portland and Guadalajara in real time through life-size screens, webcams and audio.

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Sister City Beer Collaboration

Two master brewers — from Guadalajara's Cerveza Loba and Portland's Labrewatory — traveled to each other's cities to craft Sueño Rosa and Cielito Lindo Saison. Sueño Rosa won silver at a 2017 International Craft Beer competition.

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Oregon Potters Association Collaboration

PGSCA supported a two-month intercultural exchange with four ceramic artists from Oaxaca, Mexico — including workshops at local community colleges and a showcase at the Oregon Convention Center.

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Want to Volunteer at Our Events?

We're always looking for passionate helpers — before, during and after each event.

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PGSCA

Portland Guadalajara Sister City Association · 501(c)3 Non-Profit

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