“Recognizing Genius” Scholar Award Luncheon Raises $100,000

“Recognizing Genius” Scholar Award Luncheon Raises $100,000

Portland,OR.  The benefits of innovation and the future of science in Oregon were themes at ARCS Foundation Oregon’s Scholar Awards Luncheon “Recognizing Genius” which drew over 400 guests. 67 PhD scholars were on hand, many of whom presented posters of their research. Dr. Joe Robertson, president of Oregon Health and Sciences University; Joan Foley, president of ARCS Foundation Oregon; Michael Schill, president of University of Oregon, and Dr. Ed Ray, president of Oregon State University were on hand at the Portland Art Museum luncheon on October 18th.

ARCS Foundation Oregon provides monetary awards to outstanding PhD students in the fields of science, engineering, and medical research at OSU, OHSU and UO. The organization presented awards totaling over $400,000 to the scholars.  Keynote speaker Dr. Jose Reyes of NuScale Power and ARCS alum Kevin Watanabe-Smith spoke about their research and innovation.  The event was chaired by Aletha Anderson and Julie Branford, and raised over $100,000. (Photo credit, Andie Petkus)

Barbara Wagner, ARCS member listening to Nathan Yoder, PhD scholar at Oregon Health Sciences University, present his research.

Barbara Wagner, ARCS member listening to Nathan Yoder, PhD scholar at Oregon Health Sciences University, present his research.

Barbara Silver, ARCS Foundation Oregon member and donor; Matthew Slattery, PhD student Oregon State University; Bryce Penta, PhD student Oregon State University; Phil Silver, ARCS Foundation Oregon donor.

Barbara Silver, ARCS Foundation Oregon member and donor; Matthew Slattery, PhD student Oregon State University; Bryce Penta, PhD student Oregon State University; Phil Silver, ARCS Foundation Oregon donor.

Lee Peterson, ARCS Foundation Oregon donor; Mrs. Doh, Julia Doh, PhD scholar Oregon Health Sciences University; Adrianne Peterson, ARCS foundation Oregon member and donor.

Lee Peterson, ARCS Foundation Oregon donor; Mrs. Doh, Julia Doh, PhD scholar Oregon Health Sciences University; Adrianne Peterson, ARCS foundation Oregon member and donor.

ARCS Foundation Oregon supports and nurtures young American women and men in doctoral programs at Oregon Health & Science University, Oregon State University and the University of Oregon to take on the science challenges of today and tomorrow. Oregonians are, by nature, pioneering and tenacious, looking for new ideas and ways of improving our lives.  More than 100 women in ARCS Foundation Oregon are drawn to the bright light generated by the brilliant students we are helping to attract to Oregon. 

ARCS Foundation Oregon is one of 16 ARCS Foundation Chapters nationwide, operating independently under the umbrella of ARCS Foundation National. The Oregon Chapter incorporated in 2004 and since then has awarded more than 175 scholar awards totalling $2.8 million.

Oregon is a land of lush landscapes, environmental conscientiousness, out-of-the-box thinking and fanatical foodies that spawns a welcoming populace, great neighborhoods, community activism and gargantuan local pride. The Oregon Chapter is an organization of generous friends fiercely determined to stimulate our intellectual curiosity.  We do that while advocating for groundbreaking discoveries and for placing American scientists at the forefront of their fields.

YMCA of Columbia-Willamette Celebrates “A Night To Believe In Dreams”

YMCA of Columbia-Willamette Celebrates “A Night To Believe In Dreams”

Portland, OR. Early Childhood and After School Care inspired YMCA of Columbia-Willamette supporters.They gathered at a benefit dinner to raise scholarship funds for families that can’t afford the full cost of quality child care, school age and day camp programs. Dayna Christian, YMCA Child Care Board Chair; Bob Hall, YMCA of Columbia-Willamette President and CEO; and Carol Terrell, YMCA Board Chair at the benefit, enjoyed the event. “A Night To Believe In Dreams” was the theme of the October 22nd event at the Multnomah Athletic Club. YMCA child care programs provide a safety net for some of the most vulnerable families in our community. When parents leave their child at the YMCA, to go to work or school, they do so knowing their child is in a safe, learning environment. 

YMCA guests were greeted with this inspiring scene as the Night to Believe in Dreams unfolded. The benefit dinner raised scholarship funds so that families can access early childhood development, after school enrichment care and day camp programs.

The MAC ballroom offered a Night to Believe in Dreams.

From the YMCA of Columbia-Willamette:
The Y. For a Better Community

About Us
Since 1868 the YMCA of Columbia-Willamette has offered a diverse range of quality, affordable programs that help children thrive and grow, inspire young people to lead, bring families closer together and encourage individual health and wellness. The Y is a volunteer-driven charitable nonprofit. Everyone is welcome, including you.

Culture of Inclusion
The YMCA of Columbia-Willamette staff, volunteers, members, participants and guests thrive in culturally diverse and vibrant communities. The YMCA of Columbia-Willamette embraces all individuals and families and is inclusive and welcoming to all people regardless of the following protected classes

· Ability,
· Age,
· Background,
· Ethnicity/race,
· Faith,
· Gender,
· Gender identity,
· Gender expression,
· Sexual orientation,
· Income,
· HIV or Hepatitis C,
· Breastfeeding,
· Whistleblower,
· The presence of sensory, mental, or physical actual Disability
  or perceived Disability,
· Marital status/familial status,
· Sex / Pregnancy

The YMCA believes that, in a diverse world, we are stronger when we are inclusive, when our doors are open to all, and when everyone has the opportunity to be part of the YMCA mission and our cause. Our staff and volunteers are members of these communities we serve and are integral to ensuring that the YMCA of Columbia-Willamette remains a vital resource to our members

Bradley Angle Purple Purse Lunch Supports Domestic Violence Survivors

Bradley Angle Purple Purse Lunch Supports Domestic Violence Survivors

Portland, OR. Economics are the #1 reason people stay in an abusive relationship—but economic empowerment is within reach. The Bradley Angle Purple Purse Lunch on October 25th raised $90,000 to support domestic violence survivors. Supporters like Rabbi Rachel Joseph,  Majority Leader Jennifer Williamson and Edie Rogoway, used their purses to strengthen the community. Bradley Angle’s mission is to serve all people affected by domestic violence. The nonprofit offers safety, education, empowerment, healing, and hope. It serve those affected by domestic violence with the knowledge that it’s possible for survivors to regain control of their lives. 

Bradley Angle Board President Shauna Petchel addresses guests at 2016 Purple Purse Lunch

Bradley Angle Board President Shauna Petchel addresses guests at 2016 Purple Purse Lunch

Jen Barth and Bradley Angle Executive Director Jackie Yerby

Jen Barth and Bradley Angle Executive Director Jackie Yerby

Amber Shoebridge and Melinda Velize of Legacy Health Systems with Yesenia Gallardo of Poda Foods and Melinda Velize of Legacy Health Systems

Amber Shoebridge and Melinda Velize of Legacy Health Systems with Yesenia Gallardo of Poda Foods and Melinda Velize of Legacy Health Systems

LeAnn Locher (with Governor Kate Brown

LeAnn Locher with Governor Kate Brown

From Bradley Angle:

Bradley Angle embraces the following values in all that we do:

  • We believe that everyone has a right to live free from violence and abuse.
  • We value the dignity and personal story of everyone who comes to us for support.
  • We believe that survivors of domestic violence should be treated respectfully and have control over their own lives.
  • Our services are inclusive and accessible to survivors of diverse cultures, backgrounds, experiences, and lifestyles.
  • Our services build on the strength and resilience of survivors.
  • We work collaboratively whenever and wherever possible.
  • We involve the community in our work because we know that domestic violence doesn’t just impact individuals and families—it affects every one of us.
  • We acknowledge current and historical inequities and work towards ending oppression.

Bradley Angle is constantly learning and evolving as we strive to end to domestic violence.

Nursingale Supporters Help Fund Skilled In-Home Care for Medically Fragile Children

Nursingale Supporters Help Fund Skilled In-Home Care for Medically Fragile Children

Portland, OR. The 3rd annual “Together for Good” event raised more than $80,000 to further the services provided by Nursingale, the only Oregon nonprofit that provides in-home skilled nursing for families with medically fragile children. Nearly 200 people attended the event on September 24th at the Portland Golf Club which was emceed by Joe Donlon, KGW news anchor. Christine DeCastro was the aucitoneer and music was provided by Tom Grant and his band. (Photo credit, Andie Petkus.)

Nursingale client "Juan" having fun at the event

Nursingale client “Juan” having fun at the 3rd annual “Together for Good” benefit.

Hands in the air for Nursingale.

Hands in the air for Nursingale.

Fan favorite, Joe Donlon, working the crowd.

Fan favorite, Joe Donlon, working the crowd.

From Nursingale:

The essence of our organization exists in our human spirit – the spirit and passion of those that serve and the spirit and determination of those who accept our services. We are dedicated to raising awareness of our cause and serving those in need.

It’s extremely important to us that you get to know more about our mission, our people and the services that we provide, so that you feel comfortable working with us. Once you take the time to find out what we’re all about, we hope you will be inspired to join our team of exceptional employees or become a donor.

Raphael House Gala a Worthwhile Destination

Raphael House Gala a Worthwhile Destination

Portland, OR. The Raphael House of Portland gala, “Destinations” raised over $240,000 to help fund vital domestic violence services including emergency shelter and permanent housing assistance. Three pair of yet-to-be-released Air Jordan sneakers donated by Gold Sponsor Jordan Brand had guests jumping out of their seats during the auction. More than 240 guests joined the celebration at the Exchange Ballroom on October 20th to support Raphael House of Portland’s mission. Destinations is named in honor of the domestic violence survivors served by Raphael House. For families fleeing abuse, getting to Raphael House is a key milestone in their journey, and this accomplishment is often a turning point in their lives.

The program’s highlight was undoubtedly hearing directly from guest speaker and survivor Tiffany Eggleton. Following a short video featuring her story, which can be viewed here:

Tiffany bravely took the stage to describe how connecting with Raphael House was the difference between life and death. “Because of Raphael House, I now have a place to call home, a chance to go back to school to pursue my dreams, and safety for the first time in many years. I am alive because people cared about me.” Following Tiffany’s impassioned speech, guests raised $132,635 during the special appeal.

Kelley Forseth (center) and Kayla Forseth (right) celebrate winning their first choice in the Dessert Dash: a beautiful Chocolate Fudge Dulce de Leche Cake from Citizen Baker.

Kelley Forseth and Kayla Forseth celebrate winning their first choice in the Dessert Dash: a beautiful Chocolate Fudge Dulce de Leche Cake from Citizen Baker.

Bronze Sponsor Cambia Health Solutions staff David Dandurand (left), Josh Marcellus (center), and Hestian Stoica (left) enjoy treats from Cupcake Jones following the Dessert Dash.

Bronze Sponsor Cambia Health Solutions staff David Dandurand, Josh Marcellus and Hestian Stoica enjoy treats from Cupcake Jones following the Dessert Dash.

Emcee Brenda Braxton of KGW-TV gets caught up in the excitement of the live auction.

Emcee Brenda Braxton of KGW-TV gets caught up in the excitement of the live auction.

Oregon Representative Barbara Smith Warner (left) poses with Raphael House volunteer Melissa Chernaik (center) and guest Shauna Ballo (right).

Oregon Representative Barbara Smith Warner poses with Raphael House volunteer Melissa Chernaik and guest Shauna Ballo.

Guests at Bid Card and Travel Sponsor First Tech Federal Credit Union gather for a photo in the beautiful Exchange Ballroom. Back row, from left: Heidi Hodges, Margaret Harvison, Justin Valley, and Scott Brascum. Front row, from left: Casey Maharg, Nicole Frisch, Meghan Valley, and Anne Milligan.

Guests at Bid Card and Travel Sponsor First Tech Federal Credit Union gather for a photo in the beautiful Exchange Ballroom. Back row, from left: Heidi Hodges, Margaret Harvison, Justin Valley, and Scott Brascum. Front row, from left: Casey Maharg, Nicole Frisch, Meghan Valley, and Anne Milligan.

Raphael House of Portland staff Karla Viteri (left) and Jordan Hernandez (right) sell Golden Tickets that give buyers a 1/100 chance of winning the live auction package of their choice.

Raphael House of Portland staff Karla Viteri and Jordan Hernandez sell Golden Tickets that give buyers a 1/100 chance of winning the live auction package of their choice.

Members of the Junior League of Portland gather with event emcee Brenda Braxton. Back row, from left: Gina Ambrose, Sarah Burns, Raphael House of Portland Development Manager Amanda Ives, Brenda Braxton of KGW News Channel 8, and KaDo Gorman. Front row, from left: Sophie Bayard, Kristin Kilshaw, Leanna Petrone, Jason Warkentin, and Tina Penman.

Members of the Junior League of Portland gather with event emcee Brenda Braxton. Back row, from left: Gina Ambrose, Sarah Burns, Raphael House of Portland Development Manager Amanda Ives, Brenda Braxton of KGW News Channel 8, and KaDo Gorman. Front row, from left: Sophie Bayard, Kristin Kilshaw, Leanna Petrone, Jason Warkentin, and Tina Penman.

Guests throughout the room give generously during the special appeal, including Raphael House Board Member Nicole Frisch (center) of First Tech Federal Credit Union.

Guests throughout the room give generously during the special appeal.

Raphael House of Portland’s Executive Director Teri Lorenzen (right) with agency friend and longtime supporter Lisa Watson (left), owner of Cupcake Jones.

Raphael House of Portland longtime supporter Lisa Watson, owner of Cupcake Jones, poses with the nonprofit’s Executive Director Teri Lorenzen.

The evening’s program included dinner, a spirited live auction and a special appeal. Custom cocktails by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, live music, a dessert dash featuring treats from 15 local bakeries, and a nightcap of Pip’s Mobile Donuts and Chai added to the fun and celebratory atmosphere that drew hundreds of guests to this unique event.

This year’s Destinations theme centered around the critical need for access to affordable housing, and how Portland’s housing crisis is impacting domestic violence survivors. Emcee Brenda Braxton of KGW News Channel 8 set the stage for guests with a personal reflection, sharing: “I’ve been living and working in this city for many years—and that longevity has given me a window into one of the toughest problems survivors face in Portland right now: affordable housing…Many must make the impossible decision of choosing between homelessness and staying with an abusive partner. This is a very real problem.”

As Executive Director Teri Lorenzen further explained, Raphael House is committed to helping all survivors find safety, self-sufficiency and permanent housing, despite local challenges. “We work hand-in-hand with survivors to ensure they have a permanent place to call home.” Lorenzen also proudly shared that Raphael House has evolved their programs and approach in response to Portland’s housing crisis. Theirs is the only local domestic violence agency with a full-time Housing Coordinator and other staff dedicated to helping survivors find a permanent place to call home. These programs assist more than 400 adults and children annually.

This fundraising effort was made possible thanks to generous supporters and guests. Jordan Brand served as the evening’s Gold Sponsor with additional major support from Bronze Sponsors Brown & Brown Northwest, Cambia Health Solutions, Hamilton Construction, and Wells Fargo Bank; Bid Card Sponsor First Tech Federal Credit Union; Dessert Dash and Nightcap Sponsors Green Box and Smuggle Portland; Dinner Wine Sponsor Z’IVO Wines; Exclusive Vodka Sponsor Tito’s Handmade Vodka; and Wall of Wine Sponsor JD Fulwiler & Company Insurance. Challenge Match Sponsors included the Collins Foundation, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, the Junior League of Portland, and Meyer Memorial Trust.

From Raphael House of Portland:

As the largest domestic violence shelter in Multnomah County, our agency has been providing life-saving services to families for more than 39 years. Annually, we provide 130 adults and children with emergency shelter; support more than 1,200 callers on a 24-hour access line; and offer ongoing self-sufficiency programming and housing assistance to an additional 400 survivors.