ABOUT PROJECT RED
Project RED was conceived by Ellen Wirshup in partnership with the Alano Club of Portland as an initiative to remove barriers to overdose prevention supplies and trainings, with a focus on mutual aid and community based organizations, businesses, agencies, emergency responders, and individuals facing barriers to access in Oregon. Project RED also collaborates nationally with service industry and entertainment venues and workers, and touring artists, connecting them with local harm reduction organizations and resources and, if requested, supports and services for those in or seeking recovery from substance use or mental health disorders.
In 2023, Ellen was a recipient of the Skidmore Prize, an award given to individuals doing exceptional work at nonprofits in Portland.
The Alano Club of Portland is the oldest and largest nonprofit recovery center of its kind in the country, offering cost-free supports and services to anyone in or seeking recovery from substance use or mental health disorders, including: mutual aid meetings; Peer support services; yoga and meditation classes; crossfit classes; cooking classes; arts programming and cultural events. Under Executive Director Brent Canode, the Alano Club has won four national awards for innovation in the field of recovery.
