Celebrating 30 Years of the PDX Volunteer Information Program
Cheers to 30 years of volunteers! When the PDX Volunteer Information Program (VIP) launched in 1993, it had just 13 members – today there are more than 100 volunteers. You can find these friendly folks dressed in blue greeting travelers with a smile, answering questions in the information booths and welcoming international visitors.
The numbers tell a story: Over the last three decades, volunteers served 400,000 hours, helped 4,000,000 passengers and answered countless questions including “How do I get my rental car?” and “Can you help me? I’m in Portland, Oregon, but I’m supposed to be in Portland, Maine.” There are eight countries represented and seven different languages spoken by the program members. One volunteer – Bob Edwards – has been with the program since its inception.
The VIPs are champions of our airport – they love this place, and it shows. They're more than just a helpful resource for travelers from all over the world, they're a big part of how PDX makes everyone feel welcome.