Ohana Oasis Raises Funds to Help Grieving Parents Heal

Portland, OR. ‘Ohana Oasis hosted its 3rd annual “Giving for Joy Gala” at the Multnomah Athletic Club on November 9th. The goal of the event is to create an evening of joy while raising funds to send parents grieving the loss of a child on a healing retreat in Hawaii. The retreats are a revitalizing experience for parents, and a safe space to be with others who have gone through the painful death of a child. At the benefit, featured speakers Kristi Kimball, the nonprofit’s founder Heidi Low, and Quinn Kimball posed for a photo. The benefit also included some crowd-pleasers such as the Wine Wall and Dessert Dash. (Photo credit, Blaine + Bethany Photography)

Meryl Riddle dashes for her dessert. Organizers offered a champagne welcome with live music, a silent auction, and live auction.

125 supporters listen to Kristi Kimball share about her daughter Lila, her experiences at the ‘Ohana Oasis retreat, and the way she’s been impacted by Lila’s life.

Gala Chair, Becka Carter shares why she works to put on this gala every year.

From Ohana Oasis:

Ohana means family and an oasis is a refuge. Ohana Oasis is a safe and peaceful space for bereaved parents to spend a week beginning a new way of life. Retreats create a revitalizing personal experience for each parent, as well as a safe space to be with others who have gone through the painful death of a child. Through Ohana Oasis they can hear and share their own fears, struggles, questions, joys and hopes echoed by others. Next year’s event will be held on Saturday, November 14th at the Multnomah Athletic Club.

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.