Mission Statement
Operation Nightwatch is an ecumenical street ministry that seeks to respond to the
physical, social, emotional and spiritual life of persons living in the downtown Portland
neighborhood.Style of Approach
Volunteers and guests come from a variety of
spiritual traditions. We honor these differences, therefore we don't proselytize our
guests. Operation Nightwatch is not an overnight shelter, nor a food source, nor a
rehabilitation center; we offer hospitality and friendship in an extended family
environment at our Hospitality Center. Through the ministries listed to the right we
provide opportunities to help people regain their sense of self-worth.
Structure and Funding
More than 20 churches, organizations, and over 100 volunteers support Operation
Nightwatch. The Director is Reverend Gary Vaughan, an ordained minister with the United
Church of Christ. A volunteer Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing financial
and policy decisions.
Nightwatch is a 501(c)(3) non-profit tax exempt corporation and receives
no state, federal or direct United Way funds. It is funded by churches, individuals,
businesses and a matching grant from the Collins Foundation. |