our history
The Big Yard Foundation was founded in 2018 by former NFL player Brennan Scarlett. With a vision to empower communities through education, creativity, and physical wellness, Brennan established the Big Yard Foundation as a platform for positive social change. Since its inception, the foundation has focused on creating educational-focused programs, building local partnerships, and providing resources for underrepresented communities, with a focus on Black and Brown communities throughout N/NE Portland. Through various initiatives, including literacy development, creative workshops, and mentorship programs, Big Yard Foundation has become a catalyst for both personal and collective progress.
our purpose
To inspire our community to dream bigger, and empower them with the tools to achieve.
Big Yard Objectives
Improve literacy and access to literature in disadvantaged communities by means of direct donation, book fairs and/or any similar form of events.
Provide access to the arts and encourage creativity in young people, especially those in disadvantaged communities that may lack the access to such resources.
Promote overall physical wellness by providing and improving recreational facilities within disadvantaged communities along with planning and/or hosting fun recreational events and programs.
Formulate strategies that contribute to the empowerment of communities.
Meet our board of directors
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EMI LAWSON
BOARD CHAIR
Partner
Cleveland Krist, PLLC
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ELLEN RIDGEWAY
SECRETARY
Senior Learning & Development Specialist
Port of Portland
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JEFF MORELAND JR.
AT-LARGE
Chief Executive OFficer
Raimore Construction
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BRENNAN SCARLETT
EX OFFICIO
Founder & CEO
Big Yard Foundation
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PAUL SCARLETT
VICE CHAIR
Area Manager
Oregon Department of Transportation
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JT FLOWERS
AT-LARGE
Director of Government Affairs and Communication
Albina Vision Trust
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SUSAN SCARLETT
EX OFFICIO
Executive Director
Big Yard Foundation