About The Bend Sustainability Fund
The Bend Sustainability Fund, a Visit Bend Project, reinvests tax revenue generated through short-term lodging tax paid by visitors into the places and spaces that create sustainable experiences in our community.
At Visit Bend, sustainability is based on three pillars: economic, environmental, and social. Our community is dependent on all three, and it is important to find a balance between them. To have a thriving, sustainable community for residents and visitors alike, it is important that we take into consideration all three pillars.
Bend’s outdoor and recreational resources provide endless opportunities for outdoor pursuits, and the number of people craving the pristine beauty of our forests, mountains and rivers is on the rise. And while 90% of Bend’s visitors include an outdoor experience in their visit, their time spent here is not limited to our wild places. They are also enjoying Bend’s vibrant downtown, urban parks and recreation, shops, restaurants and breweries. It is our responsibility to protect all these opportunities and ensure sustainable and lasting opportunities for all.
Outdoor recreation is a main driver for people to visit and live in Bend. Climate change mitigation, management of water resources and responsible human recreation balance with wildlife, are key elements of fostering a sustainable future for our environment. We acknowledge the need for, and are working towards, solutions to ensure the protection of the places we play.
A strong and resilient economy benefits all members of our community. When our economy thrives we can reinvest into those places that make our community unique and are enjoyed by all who spend time in Bend.
We strive to nurture a safe and supportive community that is inclusive and welcoming by investing in projects that are geographically diverse, support historically harmed communities and provide opportunity for experiences for all.
What We Have Done So Far
In two years the Bend Sustainability Fund has accomplished a lot. We are just getting started.
Dollars granted: $2,290,000
Projects funded: 17
Organizations supported: 15
