ROBIN V. moved to Portland a few years ago with her partner Fran. Now retired, she has had a colorful and varied past that included teaching, lecturing, leading women’s groups, leading immersion experiences in India and Indonesia, and much more. Robin raised three children in a Manhattan apartment where she enjoyed an interactive, mutually supportive relationship with her neighbors. Now she gets to enjoy her eight grandchildren and their parents. She also likes music, movies, art, ceramics, camping, walking on the beach, walking dogs, gardening and feeding people — as well as questions, rituals, and people who ride the bus (and those who don’t).
FRAN R. worked in social work and special education, helping children, homeless families, low-income people and those of different ethnicities. Now retired, Fran enjoys nature and camping, modern classical music, film, performance art and children who are described as “problems.” Fran says the best way for her to feel part of a community is by doing things with other members. She is a good listener and organizer, and she looks forward to learning about other members’ traditions.