If you happen to be walking along Portland’s waterfront early in the morning, you might spot a group of POA employees logging a few miles before the workday begins. What started as a small gathering of coworkers looking to stay active has quickly grown into a supportive community built around fitness, friendship, and teamwork.
The running group meets twice a week, with one weekday run and one weekend run. What makes the group special is that it’s open to all experience levels. Some participants are seasoned runners training for longer distances, while others are discovering a new hobby and working toward their first 5K. Regardless of pace or experience, the focus remains the same: encouraging one another, building connections, and having fun along the way.
Since June 2026, POA employees have participated in three events with the Oregon Brewery Running Series. These unique 5K races combine exercise with community connection, beginning and ending at local breweries throughout the Portland metro area. After completing the 3.1-mile course, runners enjoy event swag, a well-earned beverage, and the satisfaction of crossing the finish line together. Even better, a portion of race proceeds supports local charities and nonprofit organizations, allowing participants to give back to the communities where they live and work.
The momentum isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Several POA employees are planning to participate in upcoming local events, including the Hood to Coast Turkey Trot on November 25 and the Holiday Half on December 13. As the group continues to grow, so does the excitement around setting new goals, tackling new challenges, and celebrating achievements together.
As an Oregon-based company, POA values opportunities that bring employees together both inside and outside the workplace. The running group has become a great example of how shared goals, encouragement, and a little friendly accountability can strengthen relationships across teams. Whether chasing a personal best or simply enjoying the company of coworkers on a morning run, employees are discovering that success is often more rewarding when achieved together.
The growth of the running group reflects something bigger about POA’s culture: people who genuinely enjoy supporting one another, building connections, and investing in their communities. From volunteer opportunities and wellness initiatives to employee-led groups like this one, POA encourages team members to bring their interests to work and build meaningful relationships along the way. If you’re looking for a workplace where collaboration extends beyond the office and coworkers become teammates in more ways than one, POA might be the place for you.
