As the holiday season approaches, we pause to reflect on what we’re thankful for—friends, family, and loved ones. At the Albany Downtown Association (ADA), we extend that gratitude to our incredible members, building owners, business owners, community partners, and especially our volunteers.
Our volunteers serve in various roles. We cherish the dozens of amazing activity and event volunteers. They are the backbone of our efforts.
We are indebted to our board of directors who steer ADA’s future. Their commitment to our mission helps ensure the next 42 years are as bright for Downtown Albany as the last. Guided by our strategic plan and their insight, ADA is able to grow, adapt and keep our historic district thriving.
We are grateful for our committee members. ADA, like all Main Street organizations are based on Main Street America’s 4-point approach. Defined by four committees: Design, Economic Vitality, Promotion and Outreach. Each committee, with the help of volunteers, plays a vital role in enhancing the downtown experience.
DESIGN: The Design Committee works tirelessly to make Downtown Albany welcoming and enjoyable. Throughout the year, they lead initiatives that beautify our streetscape. This includes organizing Downtown clean-up days, creating inviting parklets, installing the beautiful hanging flower baskets and facilitate the street banners program. During the winter season, they are also responsible for the street tree light program, festive Downtown snowflakes and the Community Tree, which have become iconic holiday symbols in Albany. These efforts help make our downtown a favorite destination for all.
ECONOMIC VITALITY: The Economic Vitality Committee works with building owners to find tenants, helps businesses relocate, and partners with the City of Albany’s Economic Development and Community Development departments on location pre-planning and other business support. They host Downtown Connections educational sessions and plan our Building and Business Owner Mixers. They also partner with Oregon Main Street to secure grants that help fund improvements for Downtown buildings. They champion the Excellence in Downtown Albany Awards, celebrating outstanding contributions to our community.
OUTREACH: The Outreach Committee focuses on recruiting and celebrating ADA volunteers and holding fundraisers. They host popular annual events like Mixology Madness and Craft Brew Smackdown, which bring together local enthusiasts and raise essential funds for our programs.
PROMOTION: The Promotion Committee leads the ADA’s efforts to bring people downtown and encourage them to spend time at our locally-owned businesses.
They organize a packed schedule of events including 1st Friday, Chocolate Walk, Restaurant Week, and Crazy Daze. They also plan Downtown Unwrapped & Holiday Open House, Small Business Saturday, the Downtown Twice Around Parade and Community Tree Lighting and the Christmas Sweater Party. Through these events, they not only drives foot traffic to downtown businesses but also brings our community together, promoting a shared vision of a lively, thriving downtown.
At ADA, we’re immensely grateful for each of our volunteers who give their time and talents to make Downtown Albany a special place. We’re always looking for more people to join us, whether on our board, on one of our committees, or as volunteers at our events. With your help, we will continue making Downtown Albany a remarkable place to be.
