When construction started for our new Ainsworth on NE Dean, we were excited to become a part of such a unique, up-and-coming neighborhood. We couldn’t have picked a better time to do so either, as the neighborhood is about to make history with the opening of the first ever non-profit bar. Although the bar won't open until sometime this fall, their sign proclaiming, "Have a pint, change the world," is already making an impact.

This isn’t just a first for Oregon, but the entire United States! The project has been in the making for nearly two years and is set to open this fall. Ryan Lassi, head of the project, has renovated the downstairs of a 100-year old building on NE Dekum below The Village Ballroom. So far, the entire project has been powered by volunteers and Lassi plans to keep it that way. Aside from a few paid positions such as a head chef, manager and a few other paid positions, the bar will rely on volunteers to run the business and bring Lassi’s vision to life. The pub will truly be a gift that keeps on giving. A place for the community to come eat, drink and have a good time, all while giving back to the community surrounding it. Patrons will be able to pick from a list of seven different local charities to donate to. Saari grew up in Portland and has been living in the Woodlawn neighborhood for a few years. In 2010 he explained that he wanted “the pub to reflect the attitude of neighboring businesses, who all seem to demonstrate a desire to be involved in the community,” and he has stood by this very idea to this day. The Oregon Public House believes it has the potential to make up to $100,000 each month, but won’t stop there. After the pub is up and running, Lassi plans on fundraising for his own independent brewery, which would allow even more of their profits to go directly back to the community. While we wait for The Oregon Public House to open, here are some other do-good restaurants and watering holes to check out in Woodlawn: Good Neighbor Pizzeria These guys know a thing or two about making pizza. No smoke and mirrors here because, like a good neighbor, they make your pizza from scratch with regional, sustainably-farmed ingredients. They're open late and if you walk, bike, scooter or get there by any means that doesn't use gas--the owner will give you $3 off your order! 800 Northeast Dekum Street Portland, OR 97211   The Firehouse The Firehouse is hard to miss. What was once a real fire station now holds a gigantic wood-oven and rotisserie grill where they make meals based on seasonal ingridents and wholesome recipes. When you're sitting inside, the sturdy wooden bar, tables and stools tell you that they are serious about being there. The subtle imperfections of the tile placement makes you feel at home. According to the owners, they've created a place for "a good meal and wine without any pretext." Definitely one of our favorites. 711 Northeast Dekum Street  Portland, OR 97211 Breakside Brewery Breakside may not be the first non-profit bar, but they've done their fair share of firsts. In 2011 Breakside's brewmaster Ben Edwards made a series of 12 different beers, each uniquely crafted specifically for a different Portland restaurant. He worked with Pok Pok, Apizza Scholls, St. Jack, Lincoln, Podnahs Pit, Wildwood and more. A few months ago, they even teamed up with Salt & Straw to put on an event serving beer floats to raise money for Food Works Youth and Farm Program. Whether you're a beer drinker or not, the creativity and ambition makes everything awesome. Waffle fries anyone? 820 Northeast Dekum Street  Portland, OR 97211 Keep an eye out for a post about the official opening date of The Oregon Public House. For more on Lassi's story and his vision for the non-profit bar, check out the Neighborhood Notes blog here and also a more recent story from KPHO here. Renaissance Homes is an award winning Street of Dreams custom home builder specializing in green building, remodeling and renovations for the Portland market. Visit our Design Studio to personalize your next home. Awarded the Portland Homebuilder’s Association 2011 “Builder of the Year.”