Showing Up for AntFarm When It Matters Most

February is often associated with love, generosity, and showing up for the people and places that matter to us. At AntFarm Youth Services, this season feels especially meaningful as we navigate a challenging moment for community-based organizations across the country, with unique pressures hitting rural communities especially hard.

AntFarm started and exists to connect youth, families, and community members to resources, support, and pathways toward stability and empowerment. That work takes many forms. It includes safe, welcoming YouthHub spaces for teens, paid workforce development opportunities for young adults, housing stability support for individuals and families, and practical assistance for elders and people with disabilities who need help maintaining their homes. Our goal is simple but ambitious: to help people stay connected, supported, and rooted in their community.

Over the past year, sustaining that work has become increasingly difficult. Shifting funding priorities, delayed grants, and reduced program dollars have created real strain for nonprofits like AntFarm. As we moved through 2025 and into 2026, the gap between community need and available resources has continued to grow. These pressures affect our ability to keep YouthHubs open and active, retain valuable staff, and sustain programs our community relies on. We are making thoughtful, strategic decisions every day to stretch resources while protecting core services, but the margin is tight.

Community support has always been central to AntFarm’s ability to serve, and right now it is essential.

There are many ways community members, businesses, and partners can support AntFarm’s work:

• Make a one-time or recurring donation. One-time gifts help us meet immediate needs, while monthly donations provide stability that allows us to plan and commit to long-term support for youth and families. Even modest recurring gifts make a meaningful differencehttps://antfarmyouthservices.com/donate-now/%23sustaining-the-seasons

• Recycle bottles and cans through AntFarm’s Planet 365 program. Donating returnable containers supports AntFarm’s operations and helps fund essential community programs, including Community Connect and free firewood delivery. Drop-off locations include Mt. Hood Brewing, Sandy Transfer Station, Hoodland Shopping Center, and the AntFarm Outdoor Building. Large quantity? Call us and we can pick it up.

• Support youth workforce development through YouthCore services. Hiring AntFarm’s YouthCore crews for yard work and community projects is a direct investment in youth workforce development, providing paid, hands-on experience while strengthening local neighborhoods.

• Visit AntFarm Café & Bakery in Sandy. Every purchase helps keep this welcoming community space open, with proceeds supporting AntFarm programs. The café is one of the most accessible ways to support our mission while enjoying great food and coffee.

• Partner with us as a local business. Businesses can support AntFarm through sponsorships, program support, and both traditional and non-traditional partnerships. We welcome conversations about creative ways to invest in the community together.

• Volunteer your time and skills. Volunteers play a vital role in supporting events, programs, and hands-on community projects. Whether you have a few hours or want to get more involved, volunteering helps extend our reach and impact. https://antfarmyouthservices.com/volunteer/

• Help amplify our work. Following AntFarm on social media, engaging with posts, and sharing our stories increases visibility and strengthens community support and awareness. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, Nextdoor, or subscribe to our monthly newsletter.https://antfarmyouthservices.com/newsletter/ 

AntFarm has always been built on community trust and participation. During a time when funding is uncertain, and the need for services continues to grow, showing your support in any of these ways helps ensure that youth, families, and neighbors continue to have a place to turn when they need it most. Contact us at (503) 668 7962 or info@antfarmyouthservices.com.