What Makes Big Rocks Organizing Unique?
We're so proud of our fun, compassionate and professional team. Here are some of the things that set us apart as a professional organizing company.
Why Big Rocks?
The name Big Rocks Organizing was inspired by the concept of "big rocks" from Stephen R. Covey's book First Things First. In the video demonstration by our founder, Whitney, below, a jar is filled with large rocks, smaller stones, sand, and water. The lesson is simple: if you don't put your big rocks in first, they won't fit.
To us, the "big rocks" are the people, values, and priorities that matter most. Our mission is to help clients create spaces that support those priorities, reduce overwhelm, and make room for what is truly important in their lives.
Mission
Using our extensive experience and training, we help clients navigate life transitions by organizing + rightsizing, offering estate services + cleanouts and managing moves.
Guided by empathy, we create a calm, judgment-free experience that reduces overwhelm and delivers thoughtful, individualized support.
Vision
At Big Rocks Organizing, we do things differently. We don’t expect people to fit a system: Instead, we build systems that fit people. We create a judgment-free space where clients—especially those who are overwhelmed—can feel safe, supported, and understood.
We’re an LGBTQ+-owned company, working toward becoming employee-owned, and we care deeply about sustainability, equity, and treating people with respect. Learn more about our individual team members here.
Big Rocks Organizing Core Values
EMPATHY
- Understand others' perspectives
- Validate feelings
- Listen actively and non-judgmentally
- Respond with kindness
- Foster trust
- Be present emotionally
- Recognize and build on your strengths
CURIOSITY
- Ask thoughtful questions
- Explore possibilities
- Stay open-minded
- Pursue understanding
- Embrace learning
- Seek out different viewpoints
- Innovate
- Challenge assumptions constructively
PROBLEM-SOLVING
- Identify challenges clearly
- Collaborate on solutions
- Stay solution-focused
- Adapt as needed
- Remain calm under pressure
- Use critical thinking
- Draw on experience
- Take initiative
CARING
- Offer support generously
- Be attentive to others’ needs
- Show concern
- Follow through with kindness
- Build genuine connections
- Prioritize well-being
- Act thoughtfully
RESPECT
- No judgment
- Uphold safety procedures
- Use proper pronouns
- Respect your space and possessions
- Respect your lifestyle and brain-wiring
- Ask permission
- Let you be in the driver's seat
Giving Back to the Portland Community
Giving back to our community is part of who we are. Each year, we donate a portion of our proceeds to local nonprofits that strengthen, support, and uplift our neighbors.
2026: Community Warehouse
Community Warehouse provides donated furniture and household items to neighbors seeking the comfort and dignity of a furnished home, while overcoming adversity.
2024 - 2025: Rose Haven
2023: Community Warehouse
2022: Rose Haven, JOIN PDX, Neighborhood House, and the Alzheimer’s Association Oregon & SW Washington Chapter.
2021: Meals on Wheels, Sunshine Division, Community Warehouse, and Oregon Food Bank.
We are deeply grateful to our Big Rocks clients for choosing us and for referring us to others. Your trust makes it possible for us to give back in meaningful ways—and community impact is one of our "Big Rocks."
Thank you for helping us make space for what truly matters!
Our Team Members
Big Rocks Organizing treats its team members well. Our company offers a retirement plan with a company match. We pay our team members a living wage that reflects their skills. We are also working towards becoming an employee-owned business. Our team is respectful, gentle, and compassionate, yet effective. We have substantial training and experience working with those who are neurodiverse, older adults, experiencing mobility or health challenges, depression, anxiety, and other brain-based conditions.
Each team member has at least a four-year college degree, most with backgrounds in social work, psychology, or a related field. We all have extensive training in professional organizing and working with specific populations. Big Rocks Organizing is licensed, bonded, and insured. Every team member has passed a criminal background check and is fully vaccinated + boosted against COVID-19.
Our company attracts lovely, deeply talented people. We want them to be happy so they’ll serve you well!
We are proud to be a small, locally owned, women and LGBTQIA+ owned company.
Identifying as a small LGBTQIA+ and women-owned business is not just a facet of our identity; it's a testament to resilience, courage, and authenticity. We are proud to craft a space where a spirit of kindness, diversity and acceptance guides all business decisions and treatment of our amazing clients.
Learn more fun facts on our FAQ page!
Credentials and Memberships
