All posts by Myles de Bastion

Join the CymaSpace Board of Directors

09/26/2024 Myles de Bastion Leave a comment

Join the CymaSpace Board of Directors – Strategic Roles with Flexible Commitment

CymaSpace is seeking passionate and experienced professionals to join our Board of Directors. We understand that your time and resources are valuable, and we offer flexible, strategic roles that allow you to make a significant impact without overwhelming your schedule.

Our Mission:

CymaSpace is dedicated to expanding the reach of the arts through accessible technology. We create inclusive experiences that bridge the gap between artists, audiences, and communities, with a special focus on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) communities.

What We’re Looking For:

We are currently seeking individuals with expertise in:

Fundraising: Provide strategic advice on major campaigns or specific initiatives, with a focus on high-impact, time-limited involvement.
Legal Expertise: Offer guidance on key legal matters such as nonprofit governance and social enterprise, with a focus on high-level advice.
Connections within the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Communities: Help shape our outreach and programs, with opportunities to lead specific, short-term projects.

Strategic Roles and Flexible Commitment:

Advisory Role: Contribute your expertise in a strategic, high-level capacity.
Time-Limited Projects: Engage in specific projects with clear goals and timelines.
Board Giving: As part of your commitment, we ask that you consider a financial contribution that is meaningful to you. We value all forms of support, and our board giving approach is flexible, reflecting the diverse financial capacities of our members. Fundraising Support: Whether through personal donations or leveraging your network, your involvement in fundraising helps us achieve our mission.

Why Join Us?

Impact: Play a key role in shaping the future of accessible arts and technology.
Networking: Connect with other leaders in the arts, accessibility, and technology sectors.
Recognition: Receive public acknowledgment for your contributions and be part of a respected, innovative nonprofit.

FAQ

How much time is required to serve on the Board?

Board members are asked to commit approximately 1 hour per month for Board meetings, plus attending 2-3 community events per year. The term is for one year, with the option to renew.

What kind of financial contribution is expected from Board members?

Board giving is flexible and designed to fit within your means. While the capacity to contribute varies, previous Board members have typically contributed between $10-100 per month or made a one-time contribution per term. We value every contribution, whether it’s financial or through your time and expertise.

What support does CymaSpace offer to its Board members?

Orientation and Onboarding: New Board members receive a comprehensive orientation and onboarding materials to ensure they have a clear understanding of CymaSpace’s mission and their role on the Board.
Mentorship and Peer Support: New for 2024-2025, We plan to establish a Board buddy system, pairing new members with experienced mentors, and provide opportunities for peer networking and collaboration.
Professional Development Opportunities: Board members have access to workshops, training sessions, and industry conferences that enhance their governance skills and knowledge.
Operational and Administrative Support: CymaSpace staff are available to assist with scheduling, preparing materials, and other administrative tasks. Board members also have access to Board of Directors Shared cloud storage for easy access to all necessary documents.
Regular Check-Ins and Feedback: We conduct bi-annual check-ins to ensure Board members feel supported, and we welcome feedback to continually improve the Board experience.
Recognition and Appreciation: Board members shall be publicly recognized for their contributions and invited to special gatherings to celebrate their service.

Call to Action

Ready to make a difference?

Let’s explore how your expertise and resources can fit into our flexible roles. To express your interest, please contact us for an initial conversation at with the subject “CymaSpace Board of Directors Inquiry”.

News

We’re hiring for our Sign Language Café! Join our team!

01/20/2024 Myles de Bastion Leave a comment

Visual Description: The image is a flat graphic-style illustration of a cozy cafe. The color palette is warm with shades of brown, tan, and muted greens, creating a welcoming atmosphere. At the top, a large, illuminated "WE'RE HIRING!" sign hangs against a dark brown wall.
Below the sign, there is a cafe bar with three baristas: a woman with red hair tied in a bun, wearing glasses; a man with a beard and a white cap; and another woman with short black hair and a white bandana. They are behind a counter stocked with coffee cups, a coffee machine, and other barista equipment. Shelves with plants and coffee-related items are above them.
In the foreground, there are customers seated at tables. On the left, a bearded man in a teal shirt and orange pants sits with a coffee cup, engaged in conversation with a woman in a coral dress. In the center, a person with short brown hair, wearing a blue sweater and green pants, is seated in a wheelchair, gesturing while talking to a woman across the table in a teal blouse. On the right, a woman in a long blue dress stands, facing away, conversing with an elderly woman seated at a table, who has grey hair and wears a peach cardigan.
The environment is friendly and lively, with all characters appearing engaged and content. The cafe's ambiance, characterized by soft lighting and comfortable furniture, and the active engagement of the characters, suggest an inclusive and inviting social space. — Illustration of a cafe in warm tones featuring three baristas at the counter and patrons seated at tables. One patron is in a wheelchair, and others are enjoying coffee. Above them, a “WE’RE HIRING!” sign is prominently displayed. The setting conveys a cozy and inclusive atmosphere

Hello CymaSpace Community!

Dedicated to serving the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community through innovative technology, education, and cultural outreach, CymaSpace invites driven individuals to join our mission. Currently, we’re excited to offer an opportunity for Café Baristas, a role central to our impact and outreach. The positions are available immediately and will remain open until the perfect match is found.

Job Opening:

1. Café Barista (Immediate need!)

Your Role: Deliver exceptional hospitality and service, prepare quality beverages and food, maintain a pristine café space, skillfully handle POS systems, and support a diverse team during 4-8 hour shifts.
Who We Are Looking For: Individuals passionate about coffee and inclusivity, who operate effectively under pressure and value a clean environment, with Sign Language knowledge and an appreciation for Deaf Culture being a plus.

For detailed job description, please click here. Note: We opted for PDFs for easier access, but rest assured, they are comprehensive and easy to navigate.

We Are Also Seeking New Board Members!

More details will be posted on our website to detail this unique and impactful opportunity, but if you are interested in contributing at the governance level, please reach out to us.

How to Apply:

To apply for any of these positions, please send your resume or a detailed cover letter to the email listed in the job description with the position you are applying for in the subject line.

Application Deadline:

The positions remain open until filled.

We are eager to welcome new team members who share our dedication to making arts and culture accessible to everyone. Be part of a community that values inclusivity, creativity, and the power of technology to bring people together!

Best, The CymaSpace Team

Fundraiser, News

Holiday Greetings!

12/24/2023 Myles de Bastion Leave a comment

Dear Friends, Supporters, and Members of our Community,

As we stand at the threshold of 2024, I am filled with immense gratitude and excitement for the journey ahead with CymaSpace. Our mission, rooted in making arts and culture accessible to all, continues to evolve, reflecting our deep commitment to inclusivity and innovation.

This year marks a significant milestone with preparing the launch of our Sign Language Café, a project close to our hearts. Envisioned as a vibrant hub of culinary delight, artistic expression, and community engagement, the café is not just a new venture but a symbol of our broader aspirations. It embodies our dedication to creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed and valued, where the barriers between sound and silence are transcended, and where the richness of Deaf and disability culture is celebrated.

**“PAHCast supported “Deaf Artist Collective” photoshoot (behind the scenes shot)”**

Looking forward to 2024, our vision for CymaSpace is expansive and inclusive. We aim to deepen our impact in the arts and disability sectors, drawing inspiration from the diverse experiences and talents within our community. Our collaboration with Andre Gray, a pivotal figure in our organization, continues to enrich our perspective, especially in the culinary arts and community engagement.

Our commitment to technology and innovation remains steadfast. We foresee more groundbreaking projects that bridge the gap between technology and accessibility, making cultural experiences more immersive and inclusive. Our Maker Workshop and Media Lab programs will continue to be centers of creativity and learning, fostering new ideas and solutions.

**“SignKids workshop with our Deaf Mentors”**

Education and outreach will also be a key focus. We plan to strengthen our partnerships with local schools, universities, and cultural organizations, expanding our reach and impact. Initiatives like PAHCast and an immersive Sci-Fi Puzzle Room, designed by and for the Deaf and DeafBlind community, will continue to showcase the trailblazing talents within our midst.

**“Close up of the “Starship” Puzzle Room Sci-Fi Console”**

The Sign Language Café is just the beginning. We envision it as a cornerstone for future endeavors, a place where the community can gather, share, and grow together. From Sign Language Poetry Slams to family-friendly events like SignKids: ASL Dungeons & Dragons, we aim to offer a diverse array of cultural activities that resonate with everyone.

As we embark on this exciting new chapter, your support is more vital than ever. It is your belief in our mission and your generous contributions that empower us to make a difference. Together, we can build a future where diversity is not just accepted but celebrated, where every voice is heard, and every heart is touched.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Here’s to a bright and inclusive 2024 at CymaSpace!

With heartfelt gratitude,

Myles de Bastion & Andre Gray

Co-Artistic Directors

Make a Difference, Donate Today

Fundraiser, News

Note from the Sign Language Café founders

12/07/2023 Myles de Bastion Leave a comment

Let's Do It Together. A hetter from the founders: Help Launch Our Sign Language Cafe!

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Representing the CymaSpace team, known for making arts and culture accessible to all, we’re excited to introduce our newest endeavor: the Sign Language Café. This initiative is a natural extension of our mission of bridging communities through art, culture, and now, a unique culinary experience.

Since CymaSpace’s inception, our focus has been on inclusivity, transcending the barriers between sound and silence. The addition of Andre Gray six years ago significantly expanded our impact in the arts and disability sectors. Drawing on Andre’s culinary background, including his successful tenure at Crema Cafe, we’ve envisioned the Sign Language Café. More than a culinary venue, this café aims to deepen community engagement, foster connections, and support our sustainable involvement in Portland’s arts scene.

The Deaf and disability community often faces exclusion in cultural spaces. Our Sign Language Café, rooted in Universal Design and accessibility technology, will be a beacon of inclusivity. It’s designed to offer a disability-friendly environment, promoting communication and career opportunities for those often marginalized.

The café will not just be a space for workforce development, but a vibrant hub where the Deaf and hearing communities can engage in diverse communication and sensory experiences. Our walls will showcase the vibrant artworks of Deaf and disabled artists, celebrating Deaf artistic expression with an array of cultural activities. From Sign Language Poetry Slams to DJ nights and family-friendly events (SignKids: ASL Dungeons & Dragons night, here we come!). Aligning with our broader mission, these projects are only scratching the surface of what we have planned. Ultimately, the café will be the cornerstone of our future endeavors to elevate Deaf and disability artists.

Your support is crucial in making this vision a reality. By donating, you are directly empowering the Deaf and disability community. We are thankful to those who have generously donated to support our work. Together, we will create a space where diversity is not just accepted but celebrated.

With gratitude,

Myles de Bastion & Andre Gray

ASL, News

Support the Opening of PDX’s Sign Language Café!

12/05/2023 Myles de Bastion Leave a comment

Donate Now (via GoFundMe)

Welcome to CymaSpace’s new Sign Language Cafe – Where Communication Knows No Bounds!
CymaSpace is on a mission to create a unique space in the heart of Portland, Oregon, that goes beyond serving delicious coffee and scrumptious treats. Our dream is to establish the city’s first Sign Language Cafe, a haven for fostering connections between the deaf and hearing communities.

Why a Sign Language Cafe?
Imagine a place where conversations transcend language barriers, where the rich tapestry of sign language weaves together diverse stories and experiences. The Sign Language Cafe aims to be that place – a welcoming hub where deaf and hearing individuals can come together, share stories, and build friendships.

Our Vision:

A cozy, warmly lit cafe interior filled with a diverse group of people of all descents and ages, engaged in conversations using sign language. The scene includes community members who are deaf and disabled, showcasing a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. The cafe features comfortable seating, and warm colors.

Community Connection: The cafe will be a vibrant meeting point for deaf and hearing patrons alike, fostering a sense of unity and understanding within the community.
Safe Space: We envision a safe haven where deaf individuals feel empowered, valued, and respected, free from communication barriers that can be prevalent in traditional public spaces.
Cultural Celebration: Beyond coffee and pastries, the Sign Language Cafe will celebrate deaf culture, hosting events, workshops, and performances that showcase the beauty and diversity of sign language.

Why Your Support Matters:
To turn this vision into reality, we need your help. We’re seeking to raise $20,000 to cover startup costs, including sign language training for staff, accessibility features, and creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere. Your contribution will not only help us open the doors to the Sign Language Cafe but will also play a vital role in creating a more connected and understanding community.

How You Can Make a Difference:
✨ Donate! Every dollar brings us one step closer to our goal. Your generosity will directly contribute to making the Sign Language Cafe a reality.
✨ Help Spread the word! Share our campaign with your friends, family, and networks. The more people who know about our vision, the greater impact we can make.
✨ Follow Us! Stay updated on our progress by following us on Facebook and Instagram . Your support and encouragement mean the world to us.

How Your Donation Makes a Difference:
‍Accessibility Features: Your donation will help us install cutting-edge technology for better visual communication and accessibility.
‍Training Programs: Your donation will provide workshops for the hearing community to learn Sign Language, fostering an inclusive environment.
‍Café Setup: Your donation will help us design a warm and inviting space where everyone feels welcome.
‍Community Events: Your donation will help us host regular events that celebrate Deaf culture, promoting understanding and unity.

Perks of Being a Supporter:
Everyone who donates will be entered to win an incredible getaway package to Portland, which will include:
☺ A two-night stay at the Jupiter Next☺ $75 for lunch at the delectable Kachka Lavka☺ Four tickets to experience Hopscotch☺ $50 for dinner at Portland’s famous Nong’s Khao Man Gai
Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a lasting impact on our community.
Join Us in Building Bridges, Not Barriers

Donate Now (Via GoFundMe)

Join us in making the Sign Language Cafe a reality. Your support is not just an investment in a nonprofit business; it’s an investment in creating a more inclusive and connected community.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Together, we can build a space where communication knows no boundaries!

With gratitude,

-The CymaSpace Team

News

We’re hiring! See new opportunities to join our team in support of inclusive arts & culture

10/18/2023 Myles de Bastion Leave a comment

Cozy illustration of a modern workshop with a relaxed vibe, showcasing tools and a 3D printer and drill press. Diverse individuals include a Black male with cochlear implants crafting, an Asian male in a wheelchair programming, a Hispanic gender-fluid person working on a 3D printer, and neurodivergent Caucasian male and female wearing noise cancellation headphones discussing a project. Warm lights illuminate the setting, with a neon ‘We’re Hiring!’ sign drawing attention.

Hello CymaSpace Community!

We are thrilled to announce new opportunities to join our team! As we continue to serve the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community through technology, education, and cultural outreach, we are seeking passionate individuals to fill several roles that will contribute to our mission and impact. We are particularly in immediate need of a Relocation Coordinator to join our team as soon as possible, otherwise positions remain open until filled.

Job Openings:

1. Relocation Coordinator (Immediate need!)

Key Responsibilities: Oversee logistical aspects of office relocation, coordinate with vendors, and manage timelines.
Requirements: Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in logistics.

2. Volunteer Coordinator

Key Responsibilities: Manage volunteer outreach, coordinate volunteer efforts for events and workshops, and maintain volunteer databases.
Requirements: Strong interpersonal skills, previous volunteer management experience, and dedication to community outreach.

3. IT Support Specialist

Key Responsibilities: Provide IT support, manage software and hardware installations, and troubleshoot issues.
Requirements: Proven experience in IT support and technical problem-solving skills.

For detailed job descriptions, please click here. Note: We opted for PDFs for easier access, but rest assured, they are comprehensive and easy to navigate.