Get Involved
Engage. Grow & Lead with ORLA
ORLA offers meaningful ways for hospitality professionals to get involved, grow their careers, and shape the future of the industry. From serving on boards and committees to joining programs and networking events, your involvement strengthens both your professional journey and your association.
Explore the opportunities below and connect with us!
Government Affairs Committee and Working Groups
ORLA members are invited to join our Government Affairs Committee calls, held the last Friday of each month, to discuss advocacy priorities impacting Oregon’s hospitality industry. Participants vote on policy positions, oversee the ORLA PAC budget, and weigh in on ballot measures—helping shape recommendations to the ORLA Board of Directors.
Want to get more involved? Join a sub-committee or working group, like our active Lottery Sub-Committee or specialized task forces, to tackle critical issues and drive industry action.
Regional Leadership Teams
ORLA has five regional teams that meet as needed—virtually and in person—to stay engaged on local industry issues and workforce development. Current groups are active on the Central and North Coast, in Central Oregon, and in Portland (Portland Lodging Alliance and Portland Kitchen Cabinet).
Oregon Hill Runner Program
In preparation for the next Legislative Session, ORLA is identifying members with active relationships with elected officials. If you regularly communicate with a policymaker—via cell call or text every—we want to hear from you. Your voice helps connect hospitality to those in power.
Association Boards
ORLA Board of Directors (ORLA): Composed of 23 members–10 restaurant, 10 lodging, 3 Allied–this board oversees the association’s core operations and meets quarterly, typically at major ORLA events.
ORLA Member Services (ORLAMS) Board: This 9-member board meets 2–3 times a year to evaluate vendor partnerships and leverage group purchasing power to benefit members and support ORLA operations.
Oregon Hospitality Foundation (OHF) Board: Made up of 11 members, this board meets quarterly to strengthen ties between educators, workforce boards, and employers. Key initiatives: ProStart in 48 high schools and workforce development.
OHF Workforce Development
The Oregon Hospitality Foundation (OHF) focuses on workforce development by connecting industry employers with future talent. Key efforts include promoting ProStart in high schools, participating in job fairs, coordinating classroom speaking opportunities, and highlighting leadership roles on Oregon’s regional workforce boards. Members are encouraged to get involved and connect with the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Oregon Tourism Leadership Academy
In partnership with Travel Oregon and the Oregon Destination Association, ORLA runs this annual OTLA program to strengthen connections among tourism and hospitality professionals statewide. Each year, 20 participants engage in four multi-day sessions across different tourism regions, building leadership skills and advancing industry advocacy where they live and work.
Get Involved in ORLA Events
ORLA hosts annual events that connect members with industry peers and leaders to share insights and best practices. Members are encouraged to participate as attendees, sponsors, hosts, or presenters. Our Member Meeting is held each fall during the Hospitality Conference, where members review ORLA’s progress, vote on board positions, and help shape future strategy. We also host the ProStart Championships for high school students, which relies on industry judges and volunteers.
Submit an Award Nomination
Hospitality is one of Oregon’s largest and most diverse industries—and we’re proud to honor those who lead with excellence. Know someone who deserves recognition? Nominate them for an annual Hospitality Industry Award and help us celebrate the best in hospitality.