Approach
Defining and shaping public involvement for over 35 years
JLA leads engagement programs for some of the region’s most complex planning, design and construction projects.
We are enthusiastic about getting out into the community. We align a new generation’s understanding of media and how to tell compelling stories with strategic guidance from seasoned practitioners. Together, we create customized, responsive outreach programs that inform, pique interest, inspire involvement and support lasting solutions to complex issues.
Our mission
To create collaborative, meaningful and exceptionally effective public processes that lead to better, more inclusive outcomes.
Core principle
We believe those affected by a decision have a right to be involved in the process. It’s the first principle of our professional association, IAP2, and the premise that underpins our work.
A focus on equity
Engaging diverse communities in a meaningful way is the most pressing issue facing our profession. We’re leaders in creative and effective strategies for engaging multicultural communities. We work with trusted community leaders, partnering with them to design public involvement frameworks, meeting formats, and discussion questions. Our goals are to create inclusive, relevant engagement programs and also build the capacity of our community partners to work with public agencies.
Committed to sustainability
Environmentally sustainable practices are at the core of our operations and our work for clients. We think of ourselves as part of an environmentally sustainable supply chain with our clients, partners and suppliers. JLA began certifying our sustainability practices with the City of Portland in 2008 (RecycleWorks) and held Gold-level certification from the Sustainability at Work Program by the Portland Bureau of Planning & Sustainability. We love sharing conversations about best practices and lessons learned—so let’s start a conversation!
What is key to our practice?
Know the community
Learn about needs and values, and tailor engagement plans and messages as needed.
Keep the message simple
People should get key messages at a glance and know their feedback is valuable to outcomes.
Personalize the message
Make it clear how the project affects peoples’ lives.
Partner with the community
Work with community leaders and organizations to create understanding and genuine engagement.
Go to where people are
Don’t simply wait for them to come to us.
Meet diverse needs
Provide a mix of engagement opportunities—digital tools, printed materials and face-to-face.
Ask the right questions
Engage people at the right times in the process, ask questions that inform the process, and create formats that are going to be relevant to stakeholders.
Support a transparent process
Help establish a trusting relationship between agencies and stakeholders by providing regular updates and showing how feedback influences outcomes.
Our mascot
For us, Rosie the Riveter means unity, equity and humility. She is strong. She is one of us, and she is not afraid. She is doing the hard work, supporting and holding up the greater good for all. She sees a connected, community-driven future—and that’s what we see too. As a women-owned, women-led company, Rosie stands for us.
JLA is a proud member of Partners in Diversity, an organization that works toward a thriving, diverse and welcoming community in which all people can work and live.
JLA is a proud sponsor of the WTS Portland Chapter, an organization that supports and promotes the advancement of women in the transportation industry.