Oregon Energy Fund “Power Gala” Helps Warm Low Income Families in Crisis

Emcee Joe Vithayathil (FOX 12 News) and Auctioneer Misty Marquam (Marquam Auction Agency).

Portland, OR. Over 100 attendees dressed in roaring 20s-style finery came together to celebrate Oregon Energy Fund’s “Power Gala” at the Treasury Ballroom. The September 22nd benefit raised $60,000 to help provide energy assistance to Oregonians in crisis. Emcee Joe Vithayathil (FOX 12 News) and Auctioneer Misty Marquam (Marquam Auction Agency) both dressed for the speakeasy theme. The night included live music by the Smut City Jelly Roll Society Band, pop-up pubs hosted by Thomas & Sons Distillery and Buoy Beer, a Silent and Live Auctions, a wine wall, and a photo booth hosted by instaPix nw. (Photo credit, Elizabeth Babcock)

Guest speaker Kellie Goodwin (Case Manager) talks about powering lives.

Oregon Energy Fund Executive Director Brian Allbritton with Joe Vithayathil.

From Oregon Energy Fund:

Mission:

Oregon Energy’s Mission is to assist neighbors in financial crisis with their energy bills to support household stability.

Our Story

For many Oregon families, a sudden illness, unexpected expense, or loss of wages can quickly turn into a crisis. And when that storm hits, these families find themselves facing agonizing decisions. Pay the gas bill or buy food? Lights or medicine? Rent or heat? But it doesn’t have to be that way.At the Oregon Energy Fund, we have a vision. A vision that includes neighbors helping neighbors. Together, we can help provide basic needs to families facing hardships – powering our neighbors’ lives when they need us most.The Oregon Energy Fund is a 27-year-old statewide charitable organization providing energy assistance to thousands of Oregonians in times of unexpected crisis. Through the generous contributions of their neighbors, we help struggling Oregonians keep a roof over their heads, food on the table, light to see and heat in the cold. With the power of giving, we can provide the basic needs that allow people to live productive and healthy lives.

More info at http://www.oregonenergyfund.org/

Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.