Maurice Lucas Foundation Raises $520,000 at Seventh Annual Celebration

Maurice Lucas Foundation Raises $520,000 at Seventh Annual Celebration

Portland, OR. 600 supporters were on hand for the Maurice Lucas Foundation dinner including, David Lucas, CJ McCollum and Damian Lillard. The seventh annual benefit on raised a total of $520,000 (including proceeds from the dinner on September 22nd and a golf event on the 23rd) to support the foundation’s after-school education, mentoring and sports programs for under-served children in Portland, including its newly established Howard Hedinger College Scholarship Fund.

Damian Lillard and Maurice Lucas Academy students

David Lucas and Howard Hedinger

The benefit was sponsored by Nike, Jordan Brand and the Portland Trail Blazers. A number of current and former Trail Blazers attended the dinner in honor of their late teammate: Bill Walton, Bobby Gross, Lloyd Neal, Lionel Hollins, Corky Calhoun and announcer Bill Schonely from the 1977 NBA Championship team; as well as head coach Terry Stotts, announcer Michael Holton and players Damian Lillard, C.J. McCollum, Noah Vonleh and Pat Connaughton from the current roster.

Foundation Ambassador Board members Walton and Hollins joined foundation Executive Director David Lucas in presenting the Maurice Lucas Enforcer Award to Nike executive Larry Miller.

The award is given annually to an individual who best embodies many of the characteristics that its namesake displayed both on and off the basketball court, including motivating and empowering kids. Walton and Hollins are among the award’s past recipients.

2017 Enforcer of the Year Award Larry Miller along with David Lucas, Lionel Hollins and Bill Walton

Bill and Lori Walton

Lionel Hollins and Bill Walton

Vanessa Morgan, Bob Quillin and David Lucas

The After Party

Mercedes Benz of Portland was a sponsor.

Fall Fundraisers for the nonprofit included both a dinner at the Portland Hilton and a Celebrity Golf Tournament on, Sept. 23rd, at the Reserve Golf Course in Aloha. The 14th annual golf invitational attracted 115 competitors and raised $70,000. Each foursome included a celebrity, such as former Blazers Brian Grant, T.R. Dunn, Michael Harper and Terry Porter; and NBA Hall of Fame member Alex English and former player Gus Williams. Wildhorse Resort & Casino served as the presenting sponsor and Mercedes-Benz of Portland served as official vehicle sponsor.

“These funds will enable us to continue providing life-changing opportunities for under-served middle school students,” said Executive Director Lucas, son of the late Maurice Lucas. “Our foundation stands as a continuance of my father’s dedication to helping kids learn, achieve, grow and build positive values. The Maurice Lucas Foundation is proud to carry on his work.”

Maurice Lucas Academy Volunteers along with David Lucas and Pam Lucas

Maurice Lucas Academy Volunteers

John Bladholm, David Lucas, Lionel Hollins, and Bill Schonely

The winning team won the opportunity to compete at the Mercedes-Benz Sectional Championship at Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla on Oct. 5-9.

From The Maurice Lucas Foundation:

The Maurice Lucas Foundation teaches kids lessons they can use to help them realize their dreams. Our academies show the importance of hard work, respect and leadership both in the classroom and on the court.

The number 20 hangs in the rafters of The Rose Garden, home to the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers, honoring a great man. Maurice Lucas had a storied 14-year career in professional basketball, but off the court is where Maurice built his legacy. Maurice was truly a pillar in the Portland, Oregon community he called home. He touched the lives of many through his giving ways. Maurice passed away on October 31, 2010 at the age of 58. Today, the Maurice Lucas Foundation carries on his legacy by working with youth to help them realize their individual potential.

FashioNXT Shines Spotlight on First 3D Printed Designer Shoe Collection

FashioNXT Shines Spotlight on First 3D Printed Designer Shoe Collection

Portland, OR. Project Runway designer, Seth Aaron, made news at Portland’s FashioNXT show with what’s described as, “The world’s first 3D printed designer shoe collection.” (FashioNXT supports the nonprofits Girls Inc. and Oregon Active.)

Seth Aaron said of his shoes made with a 3D printer, “There are three things that make this collaboration special. First, whatever I can design, they can create. We go from concept to the runway in less than 8 weeks, while fashion design traditionally leads the market by 12 to 18 months.

“Second, they are sustainable. As the father of two children, I care about the world we leave them. The shoes are made from recycled and recyclable products. At the end of their life, we don’t toss them into a landfill, we make them into new shoes.

“Third, we are bringing fashion manufacturing home. These designs and the customers who buy them will create high paying jobs in America.”

FashioNXT founder and CEO, Tito Chowdhury said, “So much of what has been done in 3d printed fashion is like art, to be appreciated, but not lived. This innovative collaboration redefines the relationship between technology and fashion. People will wear the shoes, not because of the technology, but because they are fashionable.” For more information on buying the shoes, Visit www.Feetz.com.

There were dozens of runway shows over the four days including a finale for UpNXT emerging designers accelerator.

The 2017 UpNXT winner was Minnie Opal by Sundari Devi.

2017 UpNXT Winner Minnie Opal by Sundari Devi

2017 UpNXT Winner Minnie Opal by Sundari Devi

ABOUT:         

Seth Aaron: Seth Aaron is the 2010 winner of Lifetime’s Emmy-winning fashion design show Project Runway and 2014 winner of Project Runway All-Stars. Seth has provided fashion commentary for Lifetime, Marie Claire, E!, and Style. Seth launching his Spring/Sunnier 2018 Collection at FashioNXT Oct.13th, including the Seth Aaron Collection of 3D printed shoes by Feetz.

For more information, visit www.sethaaronfashion.com or email Seth Aaron.

Feetz: Feetz is a technology company based out of San Diego that designs custom-fit, sustainably made, 3D printed shoes. With 300+ color and customization options, Feetz is the first company to use advanced technology to create wearable 3D printed shoes, completely customized to be the perfect fit for any individual. Feetz shoes are manufactured locally and sustainably, as the company uses only recycled and recyclable materials, zero water and less waste. Available in a variety of styles for women and men, Feetz can be purchased directly on their website.

For more information: Visit www.Feetz.com, contact [email protected] or call (800) 503-8823

FashioNXT: FashioNXT presents fashion forward lifestyle on the runway and the lifestyle plaza. FashioNXT showcases the exquisite upcoming season collections of local, national and international designers and the creative edge in lifestyle technology and brands. FashioNXT Portland is a sustainable production through the support of Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF). FashioNXT Portland receives verified/certified Renewable Energy Certificates ensuring that only green energy was used in association with this event and Water Restoration Certificates replacing water used with potable water. For more information about the runway shows and tickets see: http://www.fashionxt.com or call CEO Tito Chowdhury at (503) 756-1412.

French American International School Breaks Ground on Gilkey International Middle School Building

French American International School Breaks Ground on Gilkey International Middle School Building

Portland, OR. Members of the Board of Trustees for the French American International School were digging in to celebrate the start of construction on the Gilkey International Middle School Building. The ground breaking ceremony on September 28th drew hundreds of people to the campus which is located at 8500 NW Johnson StreetPortland.

FAIS Students

Chair of the Board Matt Donegan speakes to the Students.


From The 
French American International School (FAIS) :

FAIS educates approximately 550 students in preschool through grade eight. There are about 140 students in Maternelle (preschool, prekindergarten, and kindergarten), 230 in grades one through five, and 180 in grades six through eight.

Class size is generally limited to 18 in all grade levels, and the average class size is 15. Maternelle classes (preschool, prekindergarten and kindergarten) have a certified French teacher and a bilingual assistant.

Curriculum

French American Lower School (preschool through grade five) – Our primary school is a French immersion program that combines the best of the French and American educational systems. The language of instruction is exclusively French from preschool through fifth grade. English language arts, U.S. social studies and science are taught in English beginning in the second grade. A copy of the curriculum outline is available on request.

Gilkey International Middle School (grades six through eight) – Our middle school offers an inspiring international curriculum where students strive to become independent, creative, and critical thinkers, preparing themselves as responsible citizens and leaders within their local and world communities. Students choose between instruction in English or partial immersion in French, German, Spanish, or Mandarin. All students also select a beginning language (French, German, Spanish, or Mandarin). A copy of the curriculum outline is available on request.

Edwards Center 11th Annual Luncheon Raises $175,000

Edwards Center 11th Annual Luncheon Raises $175,000

Portland, OR. “Be the Change” was the theme for the Edwards Center 11th Annual Luncheon. The fundraiser at the Multnomah Athletic Club, on October 5th raised $175,000.00. Supporters at the event included Jean Edwards, Georgia Lampros, John Gordon and Tom Shaw. (Photo credit, Andie Petkus Photography)

Jim Parker, Jean-Edwards and Julie Diamond

Dirk Fournier introduces Judy Powell

Dirk Fournier, CEO of Fournier Group and Judy and Jodi Powells

What began as a small breakfast to raise awareness and dollars in 2006, has since evolved into Edwards Center’s largest and most successful fundraising endeavor. This year’s event offered Dirk Fournier, CEO of Fournier Group Insurance Agency as Master of Ceremonies, Bonita Pioneer as Title Sponsor, Julie Diamond, Executive Coach and Leadership Consultant, provided the Keynote Address, Jerry Jones, Jr., President of the Board of THPRD accepted an Employment Award for 35 years of partnership with Edwards Center, and Judy Powell provided a warm testimonial of her daughter Jodi’s life and 30 years spent with Edwards Center.
Here’s a video about the Edwards Center:

THPRD recognized for 35 years of partnership with Edwards Center

Table sponsors-US Bank

From the Edwards Center:

Our Mission

To enhance the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities by helping them reach their highest potential through training, education, employment, housing and social opportunities in safe, healthy and stimulating environments.

We live every day in support of these core values

  • Excellence

    Providing the best to people with developmental disabilities.

  • Individuality

    Encouraging decision-making and expression of choice.

  • Ability

    Emphasizing an optimistic and compassionate attitude in supporting participants as they overcome challenges.

  • Respect

    Facilitating dignity and respect for all individuals through personal and environmental safety, cleanliness and privacy.

  • Productivity

    Encouraging productiveness and engagement, whether through employment, artistic expression, socializing or other activities.

  • Integration

    Fostering and creating opportunities for participating in their communities with people without disabilities.

For more information: http://edwardscenter.org/

Good Samaritan Foundation Fall Ball Supports Cancer Services

Good Samaritan Foundation Fall Ball Supports Cancer Services

Portland, OR. More than 200 community members gathered at Castaway Portland on September 22nd for the 2017 Good Samaritan Foundation Fall Ball to support cancer services at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center. Guests included Barbara Young, Dr. William Johnson, Dr. Nathalie Johnson and Dr. George Brown,CEO and President, Legacy Health. (Photo credit, Dodge and Burn Studios)

Dr. Jennifer Aponte, Jennifer Avery and Julie Frankhouse

Maureen Bradley, senior vice president of Legacy’s Office of Philanthropy, with Miguel Cobian

Marsha Struzik, Ed Struzik,Hayley Denney, Brad Denney, Leonie Markgraf, Steven Markgraf with a performer from The Circus Project

Highlights of the evening included a keynote address on Legacy Good Samaritan’s transformational cancer care by Nathalie Johnson, M.D., a surgical oncologist and medical director of the Legacy Cancer Institute and Legacy Breast Health Centers. She discussed the hospital’s comprehensive cancer services – from diagnosis support to survivorship programs.

There was also a special performance by The Circus Project and the silent auction featured original art made by cancer patients and volunteers.

From Legacy Health:

Legacy Health is a local, nonprofit health system with six hospitals and dedicated children’s care offered at Randall Children’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel. Legacy also includes more than 70 primary care, specialty and urgent care clinics, as well as almost 3,000 providers who are either employed, on the medical staff or part of Legacy Health Partners. We have lab, research and hospice services. Among our major partnerships are PacificSource Health Plans and the Unity Center for Behavioral Health. To learn more about supporting any of Legacy Health’s hospitals or programs, call the Legacy Health Office of Philanthropy at 503-415-4700 or visit www.legacyhealth.org/giving.