Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp’s Kentucky Derby was a Winner

Portland, April 23rd, 2016. Over 441 supporters came together for two Kentucky Derby-themed events, a “Place Your Bets Brunch” and “Triple Crown Gala,” to support Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp. MHKC Board Member Erik Marter and wife, Jennifer Marter, wore their Derby finery. (photo credit, Andie Petkus)

Guests at the Oregon Golf Club enjoyed live music by the The Bylines, songs by talented MHKC campers Aaron Hobson and Lea Mulligan, live and silent auction items, signature cocktails with Buffalo Trace Bourbon, and getting photos taken in the “Derby Winner’s Circle” photo booth with Disco, a mini horse. The program was emceed by the hilarious staff duo, MHKC staff Allan Cushing and Samantha Klein, during the daytime brunch and local Portland actor and singer extraordinaire, Dale Johannes, during the evening.  MHKC Executive Director, Kaleen Deatherage shared a touching story about the impact of MHKC’s Family Camp on The Kotrlik Family, and the audience was moved by meeting and hearing how MHKC has helped longtime MHKC camper, Conor O’Grady achieve goals in several areas of his life.

These exciting events raised a combined total of over $210,000 for Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp, which allows children and adults with disabilities to experience a week at camp, building their self-confidence and enhancing personal growth goals.

Leading sponsors were Columbia Bank, Consumer Cellular, Hart Family Foundation, ProBuild, and The Kiwanis Club of Portland Foundation.

From Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp:

THE MISSION OF MT. HOOD KIWANIS CAMP

Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp EMPOWERS children and adults with disabilities.

THE VISION OF MT. HOOD KIWANIS CAMP

• Provide best practice, state-of–the-art programs and facilities for children and adults with disabilities
• Be a community leader in the field of special education and developmental disabilities
• Focus on personal growth and empowerment of participants, volunteers and staff
• Maintain long-term relationship with campers, families, partners, financial contributors, and supporters
• Generate planned growth through innovative ideas and practices

THE VALUES OF MT. HOOD KIWANIS CAMP

• Express our passion for empowering people with disabilities
• Practice acceptance and adaptability in welcoming diversity
• Demonstrate integrity and honesty in all our actions
• Treat employees, campers, volunteers, supporters, and partners with respect and trust
• Strive for the highest quality through continuous improvement and personal excellence
• Value proficiency, expertise, knowledge, and vision in our employees
• Lead through competency and creativity
• Work collaboratively to achieve common goals
• Assume accountability for results