Our Amazing Volunteers

OUR VOLUNTEERS MATTER

Each of our volunteers plays a vital role here at Pittock Mansion. Sharing the history of the Mansion and its inhabitants during tours, keeping the garden gorgeous and blooming, filling the building with musical delights, creating a winter wonderland during the holidays, or keeping our goals moving forward behind the scenes—their time and devotion are instrumental in Pittock Mansion’s success!

From helping during school trips and busy Spring Breaks, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and details, or transforming the Mansion into the epitome of the holiday spirit—we are so thankful for all our volunteers do!

Pittock Mansion volunteers are more than greeters, they’re the heart and voice of the entire experience. With a genuine warmth that immediately puts visitors at ease, they welcome each guest like an old friend while effortlessly sharing deep knowledge of the mansion’s history, architecture, and stories. Whether answering a quick question or leading a full tour, their passion shines through in every interaction, transforming a simple visit into something memorable, personal, and truly exceptional.

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Mike Sass is a Pittock Mansion volunteer with a diverse background. He grew up in Idaho and attended Linfield College in the 1970s. After starting his career with Standard Insurance in Portland, he spent a decade working in San Francisco, followed by 35 years in New York. Now, he has returned to Portland and is pursuing his passion for history and historic homes.

After nearly five decades away, Mike is enjoying life in Northwest Portland, spending time hiking, biking, and kayaking in the nearby mountains. As an avid cook, he appreciates using the Pacific Northwest’s abundant local ingredients. He also enjoys Portland’s walking trails, which offer a unique combination of nature, history, and culture.

Mike does an amazing job inspiring guests to appreciate the interplay between the stories and the design of the building. He finds it tremendously rewarding to help visitors appreciate how the history of Portland and the Pittock family intertwine with the rich architecture of the building. Mansion guests of all ages light up with interest when discussing details from the house. Mike knows there is an aspiring history teacher in many of us – volunteering at the Mansion provides a host of engaged students to indulge in that passion. On top of his role teaching others about the past of the house, he also helps the Mansion move forward in his role on the Finance Committee, supporting Pittock’s work looking towards the future.

In addition to his volunteer work at Pittock Mansion, Mike is active with the Pacific Coast Council (BSA) and is currently looking to get involved in a local theater. His blend of interests in the arts, history, architecture, and youth service contribute to his rewarding retirement.

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Matt Preston didn’t set out expecting that he’d one day be volunteering at Pittock Mansion—it happened more as a quiet series of small decisions than a single defining moment. His life has been shaped by a deep commitment to caring for others, building community, and creating meaningful experiences, whether in professional settings or personal pursuits.

For over 30 years, he worked in senior care as both a dietitian and a nursing home administrator. That chapter of his life was grounded in compassion, responsibility, and the belief that dignity and quality of life matter at every stage. Supporting residents and their families required not only clinical knowledge and leadership, but also patience, empathy, and a steady presence during some of life’s most challenging transitions.

Alongside that career, he explored his creative and entrepreneurial side by founding and running a holiday design and retail business. What began as a passion grew into a successful venture, allowing him to bring joy and beauty into people’s homes during meaningful times of the year. Later, he expanded his work in care by purchasing and successfully operating an in-home care business, continuing his commitment to helping people remain supported and comfortable in their own homes.

His personal life has been just as full. He is the proud parent of three adopted children, an experience that has profoundly shaped his perspective on family, resilience, and unconditional care. Raising them has been one of the most meaningful and transformative parts of his journey.

Living in Portland, Pittock Mansion was always there in the background—perched above the city, familiar yet somewhat distant. At first, it was simply a place to take in the view. But over time, he became more drawn to the history behind it: the story of the Pittock family, the growth of Portland, and the sense of continuity the mansion represents.

A meaningful turning point came when he met Paula at his holiday store last year. That connection led to an unexpected and deeply appreciated opportunity—he was honored to be asked to decorate the mansion’s grand entryway. Bringing his creative work into such a historic and beloved space felt both humbling and full circle, blending his passion for design with his growing connection to the mansion itself.

Volunteering there began as a way to give back, but it quickly became something more meaningful. It allows him to connect with people from all walks of life, to share stories, and to be part of preserving a place that holds significance for the community. In many ways, it feels like a natural extension of everything he’s done before—caring for others, creating welcoming experiences, and contributing to something larger than himself.

Looking back, it feels less like he “ended up” at Pittock Mansion and more like he gradually found his way there. Each chapter of his life—professional, personal, and creative—has led him to a place where he can continue to engage, contribute, and connect in a way that feels both meaningful and lasting.