Coffee House 26 to Host Mt. Hood Pride Event June 6th

By Marie Kennedy The Mountain Times

If you’ve ever grabbed a latte at Coffee House 26 in Welches, you’ve probably met Amber Ford, owner, barista, community cheerleader, and proud ally. But on Friday, June 6, she’s not just serving up caffeine. She’s serving up PRIDE.

From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Coffee House 26 will host the 5th annual Mt. Hood Pride celebration, a joyful, family-friendly event packed with music, art, local vendors, and a whole lot of love. It’s the café’s biggest event of the year, and it’s all for a cause that’s close to Amber’s heart.

“I have several family members who are LGBTQ+,” Amber shared. “This started with concern for my family and wanting them to have a better future. I’m proud of them, and Pride is one way that I can show it.”

Mt. Hood Pride isn’t just about rainbows and espresso (though both will definitely be in abundance). The event also features a raffle where 100% of proceeds go to The Trevor Project, a national nonprofit dedicated to providing mental health services and suicide prevention among LGBTQ+ youth.

Amber is donating 50% of Coffee House 26’s sales that day to the cause, and neighboring restaurant The Burro Loco is jumping in too, offering happy hour specials and setting out a donation jar.

Still want to help? Local businesses are encouraged to donate gift cards, gift baskets, or other raffle items. “The more the merrier, and the more support for The Trevor Project,” Amber said.

Etertainment this year comes courtesy of Rural Queer Open Mic, a trio of talented LGBTQ+ organizers from Wallowa County who bring music, art, and healing energy to small towns across Oregon. Expect acoustic sets, candle booths, chair massages, and maybe even a little community karaoke.

And yes, it’s a family-oriented event, with plans to spill the celebration outdoors, weather permitting. Amber wants everyone to feel welcome. “We’re creating a space where all are seen, all are valued, and everyone gets to be themselves.”

Amber, who grew up in Ohio and went to Kent State, didn’t always envision herself as the host of a rural Pride event. But running Coffee House 26 has given her a platform, and she’s using it with purpose.

“I’m a big advocate for mental health too,” she said. “This is about showing up. For my family. For this community. For every kid who just needs to know they’re loved.”

Coffee. Love. Joy in the shadow of Mt. Hood. We’ll see you there.