A Day of Healing, Connection, and Renewal: ORABSE's Third Annual Restore Refuel Revive

ORABSE hosted its third Restore Refuel Revive wellness event on April 25 at Leodis McDaniel High School, bringing together Black educators from across the region for a day dedicated to healing, reflection, and community.

The Restore Refuel Revive wellness series reflects ORABSE's ongoing commitment to supporting the health, well-being, and professional sustainability of Black educators across Oregon. At a time when many educators are facing increasing challenges and uncertainty, creating spaces for restoration and connection is more important than ever.

The event featured interactive workshops, healing sessions, and community-centered activities designed to help participants reconnect with themselves and one another. Participants engaged in breathwork, meditation, storytelling, yoga, self-care practices, and a variety of enriching experiences—all thoughtfully designed to promote relaxation, renewal, and well-being.

Throughout the day, attendees had opportunities to recharge, feel grounded, and strengthen their sense of community and belonging. The impact of the event was best expressed by those who participated.

Here are just a few of the testimonials shared by ORABSE members. Their voices tell the story of the impact this work is having across our community:

"There's something so special about walking into a room full of shining, Black educators and knowing this is where I belong. Thank you!!"

"Giving Thanks! What a great space to return to your ORABSE day of wellness as a provider for yet another year. Being able to treat, heal, and guide the mediation for our Educators fills my passion, peace, and purpose," philosophy. And they all deserve the very best! Thank you for helping to create this space."

"Currently the education community of PPS is experiencing a moment of crisis due to extreme budget cuts.  The stress & uncertainty is high! To be able to have a Saturday devoted to health & wellness was an amazing experience to de-stress. The opportunity to receive a free massage, an acupuncture session, and attend workshops that were culturally affirming was awesome. Thank you to our sponsors and I hope future events like this can continue."

"This was a brilliant display of support for Black Educators!  We were able to connect and learn from each other's experiences. We need MORE empowerment events like this. Thank you for this opportunity." 

"I am grateful for the opportunity to refresh, reflect, and meet others on the same journey. Key takeaways: rest, self-care, healing, reflection, and creativity."

We extend our deepest gratitude to our incredible wellness providers whose expertise, care, and generosity made this event possible:

Angela Braxton Dori King Dr. Kiara Cordes Dr. Lisa Collins

Dr. Xylecia Fynn-Aikins Dr. Renee Mitchell Graciela Teofield

Kasha Payne Lewis Thompson Rob Thomas Sita Symonette

Sunshine Dixon Tomara Helena Phil Queeley

Sistahs4Life — Selena, Kim, and Char

We also extend our sincere appreciation to our sponsors and partners:

Portland Public Schools, Oregon Wellbeing, MESD, and Meyer Memorial Trust.

 Their support makes it possible for ORABSE to provide meaningful wellness experiences and continue building a stronger, more connected community for Black educators across Oregon. And a heartfelt thank you to Finer Things Events & Catering who helped make our event so memorable.  

As ORABSE continues to invest in the well-being of Black educators, events like Restore Refuel Revive serve as a powerful reminder that rest, healing, and community are essential components of educational excellence. Through the collective support of wellness providers, sponsors, partners, and members, ORABSE remains committed to creating spaces where Black educators can thrive—personally, professionally, and collectively.