April 20-26 marks National Volunteer Week, a time to recognize volunteers and their positive impact in our community and our world. Portland International Airport is home to three volunteer programs: Volunteer Information Program (VIP), PDX Music Program, and the PDX Animal Therapy Program. We’re sharing our sincere appreciation for volunteer contributions to our airport and beyond.

Volunteer Information Program
When the Volunteer Information Program (VIP) launched in 1993, it had just 13 members. Today, there are 145 volunteers who contributed a total of 21,692  hours in the past year. The VIPs are champions of PDX – they love this place and it shows. In a recent poll of the team, their number one reason for volunteering is helping people. But they're more than just a resource for travelers from all over the world, they're a big part of how PDX creates a welcoming environment. You can find these friendly folks in blue greeting you with a smile as you come down the escalator, answering questions in the information booths and welcoming international travelers. 

PDX Music Program
The PDX music program was founded in 2002 in the wake of 9/11, with a goal of using music to create a calming atmosphere for passengers. Today, the program provides an opportunity for 30 talented musicians who wish to volunteer their time and share their talents with thousands of people. Over the past year, we had two new musicians join the program; Beau Brant and Micael De La Malena. From playing throughout the terminal to supporting events at PDX, the volunteer musicians strike a chord with the airport community.

PDX Animal Therapy Program
Travel can be stressful – that’s where the PDX animal therapy program steps in to fetch a little peace and comfort for visitors at the airport. Last year, we introduced a new group of four-legged friends to the program: the Mountain Peaks Therapy Llamas & Alpacas. Since their start in February of 2024, these teams have donated 209 hours.

Overseen by our partners at DoveLewis, there are more than 34 highly trained canine therapy teams that visit PDX. The dogs roam the terminal, accompanied by their handlers, with tails wagging and on the lookout for pets and cuddles. Portland Area Canine Therapy Teams Program Director Kathy Loter knows how impactful therapy dogs are, "We feel the love from all by seeing the smiles and the laughter when our dogs are in costume or in their program vests. We feel part of the PDX family!"

Join us in thanking our volunteers this week – and every day – as we celebrate the guidance and kindness of the PDX VIPs, the relaxing melodies offered by our volunteer musicians and the stress-reducing talents of the therapy animal teams.