World Arts Foundation Inc.

World Arts Foundation Inc. Based in Portland, Oregon. Preserving African-American contributions in American culture since 1976. in 1980. Federal Holiday Commission.

World Arts Foundation originated and produced Oregon’s largest annual salute and celebration of the life of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. From 1980 to 1984, Keep Living the Dream” was in a radio show format and broadcast live on the third Monday in January over KBOO radio, a volunteer-assisted alternative station in Portland, Oregon. Since the first King birthday program on KBOO (1980),

the station has continued to preempt regular program to provide all-day coverage of the program to thousands of viewers, listeners and attendees. In 1985, due to the substantial number of performers and citizens desiring involvement in the program, a move was made beyond the station’s confines to a larger public venue-Whitaker Middle School. This move allowed for live public participation and increased community involvement in the educational program. At this time, live simulcast broadcasts are our mainstay with Portland Cable Access. Within four years it became apparent that another larger venue was necessary in order to accommodate the increasing audiences. In 1989, “Keep Living the Dream” made a strategic move to the Jefferson High School Performing Arts Center, a facility used regularly to produce outstanding school productions that attracted large and diverse community audiences. The program continued to be simultaneously broadcast on the radio and cable television, and now includes local commercial stations that transmit to their viewing audiences selected portions of the live program throughout the day. The program was televised (live until 2020) from Highland Christian Center. “Keep Alive the Dream” is now recognized as the largest tribute in the State of Oregon and has official designation from the National Martin Luther King Jr. World Arts has also produced the Timesound Ensemble, a vocal musical ensemble blending a variety of youthful musicians, Youthsound Stageband & Gospel Choir; a historical Dr. Martin Luther King Documentary made for television and After-School Theater workshops for students to supplement or replace important arts programs within public schools.

Thank you to everyone who came out and made this year’s ‘Keep Alive the Dream’ tribute unforgettable. What we witnessed ...
01/22/2026

Thank you to everyone who came out and made this year’s ‘Keep Alive the Dream’ tribute unforgettable. What we witnessed was truly Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy in motion — a beautiful coming together of community, culture, music, spoken word, vendors, and joy. The diversity, love, and shared purpose in the room reminded us that the Dream is alive, growing, and carried forward by all of us.

Come watch our live stream!
01/19/2026

Come watch our live stream!

Welcome to the annual "Keep Alive The Dream" - a tribute to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Last year, our community came together to honor Dr. King’s legacy through reflection, remembrance, and renewal—reaffirmi...
01/18/2026

Last year, our community came together to honor Dr. King’s legacy through reflection, remembrance, and renewal—reaffirming that the Dream is not a moment in history, but a living call to action. That gathering reminded us that when we assemble with purpose, we strengthen one another and recommit to the work ahead.

This year, we return with renewed intention, carrying that momentum forward. On Monday, January 19, 2026, from 11:00 AM–2:30 PM, we invite you to join us at our new home, Life Change Church, for the annual Keep Alive the Dream tribute honoring the enduring legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Our 2026 theme, “A Legacy in Motion: Moving the Dream Forward,” reflects the truth that the Dream did not end—it evolves through us. We are called not only to remember, but to participate, to nurture the next generation, and to move with unity, creativity, and care.

Experience an afternoon of spoken word, music, storytelling, education, youth leadership, community voices, vendors, and cultural expression—all rooted in remembrance and rising toward the future. This is more than a celebration; it is a continuation.

The event is free and open to all ages. Come reflect, connect, and help us carry the Dream forward—together.

In just two days, our community will gather to reflect, celebrate, and move forward together—continuing the Dream with p...
01/17/2026

In just two days, our community will gather to reflect, celebrate, and move forward together—continuing the Dream with purpose and action.

Join us on Monday, January 19, 2026, from 11:00 AM–2:30 PM, at our new location, Life Change Church, for the annual “Keep Alive the Dream” tribute honoring the enduring legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

This year’s theme, “A Legacy in Motion: Moving the Dream Forward,” reminds us that the Dream did not end—it lives through us. We are the stewards of this legacy, called to uplift the next generation through unity, creativity, and community care.

Enjoy an inspiring afternoon of spoken word, music, storytelling, education, and cultural expression, featuring powerful performances, youth leadership, community voices, vendors, and cultural showcases—all rooted in remembrance and rising toward the future.

This event is free and open to all ages.

For more details, visit www.worldartsfoundation.org.

Only 3 days left! ✨In just three days, we come together to honor the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and c...
01/16/2026

Only 3 days left! ✨

In just three days, we come together to honor the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and continue the work of the Dream.

📅 Monday, January 19, 2026 | 11:00 AM–2:30 PM�📍 Life Change Church in Portland’s Albina District

Join us for the annual “Keep Alive the Dream” tribute, themed “A Legacy in Motion: Moving the Dream Forward.” Experience spoken word, music, storytelling, youth leadership, cultural expression, community voices, and more—each moment celebrating who we are and the future we are building together.

🎉 Free community event | All ages welcome�
Learn more on our website: www.worldartsfoundation.org

The Dream is alive—and in motion.

World Arts Foundation, Inc. proudly presents our very first Legacy Sponsor Award, and we could not have chosen a more de...
01/11/2026

World Arts Foundation, Inc. proudly presents our very first Legacy Sponsor Award, and we could not have chosen a more deserving honoree! Karis Stoudamire-Phillips, born and raised in North and Northeast Portland, is a philanthropic professional and a non-profit organization's dream partner! Her career spans over twenty years of giving and leading with heart, passion, and determination. We are deeply grateful for her contributions to WAFI.

A super connector and tireless advocate for social justice and economic empowerment, Karis has served on numerous boards and advisory committees throughout her career. However, it is her kind spirit and deep desire to support others in driving meaningful change and overcoming longstanding inequities that make her our 2026 Legacy Sponsor!

Please join us in congratulating Ms. Karis Stoudamire-Phillips for her dedicated sponsorship and advocacy of countless non-profit organizations over the course of her impactful career! We DREAM a world with more advocates like Karis! Thank you so much for your example and support. You are tremendously appreciated!

You can read Karis’ full bio on the World Arts Foundation, Inc. website: https://www.worldartsfoundation.org/post/legacy-sponsor-awardee-karis-stoudamire-phillips

World Arts Foundation, Inc. proudly presents our impressive cohort of Lifetime Achievement Award recipients! These extra...
01/09/2026

World Arts Foundation, Inc. proudly presents our impressive cohort of Lifetime Achievement Award recipients! These extraordinary Awardees represent deeply dedicated servant leadership, impactful community empowerment, and an awe-inspiring mix of talent, creativity, and community love - leaving a lasting legacy of transformative change for all to admire!

Please join us in congratulating all of our honorees for their incredible dedication and achievements - and especially their commitment to Black Portland - at our 41st ‘Keep Alive the Dream’ program to be held on January 19th from 11am - 2:30pm at the Life Change Church in Portland's Albina District.

You can read their full bios on the World Arts Foundation, Inc. website: https://www.worldartsfoundation.org

Update: New LocationJoin us Monday, January 19, 2026, from 11:00 AM–2:30 PM for the “Keep Alive the Dream” tribute honor...
12/24/2025

Update: New Location

Join us Monday, January 19, 2026, from 11:00 AM–2:30 PM for the “Keep Alive the Dream” tribute honoring Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. With the theme “A Legacy in Motion,” the event features performances, storytelling, youth voices, and cultural showcases.

We are now meeting at a new location:
Life Change Church at 3635 N Williams Ave, Portland, OR 97227

Free and open to all — come be part of the Dream in motion.

Join us January 19th, 2026, at Life Change Church for the annual "Keep Alive the Dream" tribute to the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This free event features inspiring speakers, live performances, vendors and more!

Address

3635 N Williams Ave
Portland, OR
97227

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