In the heart of Portland, a unique community stands as a testament to human resilience and ingenuity. Right 2 Dream Too is not just a shelter – it’s a self-governed village where individuals experiencing homelessness find safety, community, and a sense of belonging.
A Place to Call Home
For Vince Masiello, who has been part of Right 2 Dream Too for two years, the village is more than just a place to sleep. “We have a lot of agency with being self-governing,” Masiello explains. “People like to set their own rules and if things don’t work, we come together and figure it out.”
This sense of ownership and community is echoed by long-term residents, some of whom have called Right 2 Dream Too home since its inception in 2012. The village has become a sanctuary for many, including elderly individuals who have found comfort here in their final years.
Basic Amenities, Rich in Community
Right 2 Dream Too operates with minimal resources, yet manages to provide crucial services to its residents. The village houses 15-20 members in tiny homes, while also offering an alternative drop-in shelter that accommodates about 50 people each night. A repurposed shipping container serves as a hub for computers and storage, highlighting the community’s resourcefulness. Basic necessities are met with a water supply and a single shower, while a shared refrigerator, microwave, and occasionally used grill allow residents to prepare meals. Sanitation needs are addressed through porta potties and regular garbage collection. Despite its modest annual budget of approximately $64,000, Right 2 Dream Too demonstrates remarkable efficiency in providing shelter and safety at an extremely low cost.
Challenges and Resilience
Life at Right 2 Dream Too is far from luxurious. The tiny homes lack insulation, and residents often create their own using sleeping bags or other materials. During extreme weather, they may need to seek emergency shelters elsewhere.
Despite these challenges, the community thrives. Residents take pride in maintaining the space and managing day-to-day operations. They decorate their tiny houses, form friendships, and support one another.
A Model of Self-Governance
The village operates under a unique self-governing model. Weekly Sunday meetings allow residents to discuss issues and make collective decisions. A board of non-residents provides oversight, but largely allows the community to manage itself.
This approach has proven successful. As Danielle Klock, a volunteer and advocate, points out, “This is a peer-led village and alternative shelter. How often are police called? Never. This is a model that really works.”
Funding: A Constant Challenge
While Right 2 Dream Too has demonstrated its value, securing consistent funding remains a significant hurdle. Grant Swanson, the treasurer, hopes for city support for basic services like toilets and garbage collection.
Klock, who has personal ties to the village through her late son, is actively fundraising and seeking grants to ensure its continued operation. “There are things that would make life more comfortable for folks,” she acknowledges, “but right now the priority is keeping it open.”
A Vision for the Future
Despite the challenges, residents like Masiello see immense value in Right 2 Dream Too. Having recently found employment, he appreciates the opportunity to save money while being part of a supportive community.
“It should be a model that every community should have,” Masiello asserts, encapsulating the hope that Right 2 Dream Too represents – a place where individuals facing homelessness can find not just shelter, but dignity, community, and a path forward.