Portland, September 27th, 2013. The 5th annual A Gathering of Good event, the signature fundraiser for Metropolitan Family Service, drew nearly 300 guests to the Portland Hilton Pavilion Ballroom including Portland Mayor, Charlie Hales; Cheryl Myers, Director of Economic & Business Equity in the Office of Governor John Kitzhaber and Judy Strand, CEO of Metropolitan Family Service. The event benefit raised more than $260,000 in support of programs for area children, families and older adults. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Provocateur Award to Cheryl Myers, Director of Economic & Business Equity in the Office of Governor John Kitzhaber. (photo credit, Andie Petkus Photography)
Julie Harrelson of Harrelson Group, emcee; Rick Huddle,professional storyteller
Cheryl’s leadership as Chair of the North Clackamas After School Task Force helped MFS launch 6 community school sites, a parent engagement and education program, a kindergarten readiness program and an older adult mentoring program. Collectively, these programs touch the lives of more than 5,000 individuals each year in the North Clackamas School District. Cheryl’s extraordinary work aligns with the mission of MFS: To help people move past the limitations of poverty, inequity and social isolation.
Dave Johnson, Johnson Family Foundation; Eva Kripalani, Chair of the Metropolitan Family Service Board of Directors
A Gathering of Good is the culmination of a year long discussion series organized by MFS. The agog discussion series is designed to promote face-to-face conversation, civic engagement and social change. Discussions are privately hosted and revolve around a theme focusing on a significant community issue that affects everyone.
From Metropolitan Family Service:
Through social innovation and a focus on prevention, Metropolitan Family Service delivers proven programs to help people succeed at home, in school and in the community.
Metropolitan Family Service started in 1950. It was the first family service agency in the area not affiliated with a religious group. The agency provided counseling to families. As needs in the community changed, our agency responded with new programs and services. Today we provide resources and offer volunteer opportunities in a network of programs integrated into community sites.
Our staff of 250 — including part time instructors — shares our commitment to professionalism and excellence with nearly 2,000 skilled and caring volunteers who contribute 70,000 hours in the Portland/SW Washington area. Metropolitan Family Service makes connections that strengthen the lives of children and families each year. We provide services at more than 42 sites, including nearly 36 schools.
MFS staff and skilled volunteers provide services to strengthen the community through proven programs.
Creating opportunities for children to succeed in their families, in school, and in the community by providing result-oriented programs in a safe environment
Strengthening individuals and families by creating access to community resources, developing support networks, and offering proven learning opportunities that work
Supporting older adults to help them maintain their independence and connections to the community through friendly visiting services and living assistance, and creating opportunities for them to volunteer in the community
We use creative and proactive problem solving to build and sustain dynamic community-based programs and quality services.
We believe in the potential of families and individuals at all life stages and focus on prevention, wellness and independence.
We build strong relationships by collaborating with our funders, partners and highly trained volunteers, always striving for an extensive commitment to diversity.
Metropolitan Family Service is dedicated to building stronger communities by providing services, connecting people with resources, and offering volunteer opportunities throughout the Portland/SW Washington area. MFS invests in individuals and families that struggle with the many barriers associated with cultural and economic disparities including – inadequate education, health issues, isolation, unemployment, and poverty. To learn more about our individual programs, visit Services .
Portland, September 27th, 2013. Changing the direction of teen health is the goal that energized more than 180 guests and volunteers at MIKE Program’s An Autumn Evening 2013. The annual event at the Multnomah Athletic Club raised $60,000 from a host of community organizations, health practitioners, advocates, and business leaders. (photo credit, Anna M. Campbell) The MIKE Program (named for a revered local physician) empowers youth to be health leaders—ambassadors for healthy kidneys—through education, mentorship and community outreach.
DaVita Healthcare Partners, Inc., continues its long-standing partnership with MIKE Program as a premier sponsor.
Emcee for the evening, Keith Lyons of KBNP AM 1410, joins MIKE Program President Cheryl Neal and Deanna Martinson.
(Center, standing) Lori Sobelson, Director of Community Outreach for Bob’s Red Mill, leads a team of supporters.
Portland business and civic leader Roy Jay listens as Wesley Ward, a 10th grader from De La Salle North Catholic High School, tells the audience about his experience with MIKE Program.
“Kidney Anatomy” is one aspect of the educational program.
According to the Mike Program, “We exist because chronic disease conditions including obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure are increasingly impacting our children, especially low income and minority children.”
Leading the support were new and ongoing sponsors included: DaVita Healthcare Partners, Inc., Northwest Renal Clinic, Inc., Providence St. Vincent Medical Center, Geffen Mesher & Company, SIGMA Investment Management, Bob’s Red Mill, Legacy Health, OHSU, Department of Nephrology, First Republic Bank, OHSU, Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, Lilly, USA, Roy Jay Enterprises, KBNP AM 1410, The Skanner News, One Up Solutions, Northwest, PrintSync, Inc., Think AV, ,Anna M Campbell Photography, and Vo Minh McBurney Videography.
About MIKE Program:
MIKE Program (Multicultural Integrated Kidney Education Program) is a public benefit nonprofit that is a solution to the crisis of the chronic diseases obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure which lead to kidney failure. By guiding teens toward healthier lifestyles at a time in their lives when they are most receptive to change, MIKE Program provides a foundation of knowledge and skills to make healthier choices.
A Living Memorial
MIKE Program serves as a living memorial to Michael (Mike) N. Hartnett, MD, who embodied the best of the wisdom, kindness, and caring of the medical colleagues he left behind at Northwest Renal Clinic (NWRC) in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Hartnett was the first nephrology fellow at what is now Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU.) He received training to become a board certified nephrologist in the newly established Division of Nephrology under the direction of William Bennett, MD, FACP. Dr. Bennett, professor emeritus OHSU, is Director of Legacy Good Samaritan, Solid Organ and Cellular Transplantation, in Portland, Oregon, and founding member of the Advisory Board of MIKE Program.
Mike Hartnett took care of patients for many years in his offices at NWRC in Portland, The Dalles, and La Grande, Oregon. He volunteered at what was first the Kidney Association of Oregon (KAO) and then the National Kidney Foundation of Oregon and Washington (NKF-ORWA). With Charles Martinson, MD, a member of the Founding Board of Directors of MIKE Program, he was co-medical director of dialysis at Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital in Portland. He treated patients at dialysis centers and hospitals throughout the tri-county metropolitan area. Dr. Hartnett served as a nephrologist in the offices of NWRC from 1975 until his retirement in 1998. He died of lymphoma in 2000. He was 58.
History
MIKE Program is the outcome of the legacy of work of Mike Harnett, MD, his colleagues, and hundreds of volunteers. MIKE Program stands for Multicultural Integrated Kidney Education Program. Shortly after his service, members of Dr. Hartnett’s medical community expressed an interest in establishing a living memorial which would embrace and carry forward his life’s work and vision. A small group of Dr. Hartnett’s colleagues met with Cheryl Neal, MD, his widow, in 2000 to develop a program that would embody Dr. Hartnett’s interests and concerns. MIKE Program was founded on his vision of education and prevention for populations at high risk of kidney insufficiency, incorporating collaborative problem solving. Dr. Hartnett’s belief in the power of education for youth, reinforced with personal experience with diverse learning styles, provided the foundation for MIKE Program.
MIKE Program received its 501(c)3 status in August, 2003. Now in its 10th year, MIKE Program has reached the lives of more than 750 youth, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to empower them to be health leaders for themselves, their families and friends, and their communities.
Portland, September 20th, 2013. Over 200 fitness buffs jumped at the chance to attend the Fit Right Fashion Show. The event raised awareness for Oregon Active— an organization dedicated to providing adventure therapy for people facing challenging conditions and drew fans like Michelle Markoya, Brian Lasswell, and Antje Fimmel. (Photo Credit, Steve Belinge) Oregon Active leaders explain, “We inspire through positive emotion, challenges, community support and a connection with the natural world that refreshes the human spirit.”
Outings include surfing, hiking, and fishing among other enrichment.
The benefit took place at Pure Space and was organized by West Coast Productions. Guests raised $1,500 for Oregon Active, by playing games of chance and sipping Barefoot wine and Widmer Brothers brews. Fifteen vendors, including Nike, Adidas, Lucy, The North Face, Brooks, and Icebreaker sold apparel at a discount—some of the items were made only available during the event. Local athletes, trainers, fitness instructors, and Olympians Kara and Adam Goucher strutted their stuff in the featured apparel.
Guests entered to collect goodie bags with items valued at over $75.
Elisa Ann Hatch Bennett, Lory Hefele
Jenny Hannson Vithayathil emceed for the evening and kept the crowd laughing throughout the show.
Devin Kelly, Oregon Active.
Monica Carlson
Nell Cox Gingerich, Molly McCluskey, David Sobolik, Derek Scott.
Scott Allen Brown.
Fit Right Northwest owner and Oregon Active supporter, Dave Sobolik, organized the fashion show benefit for the second year to raise funds for the organization that has truly “struck a chord” with Sobolik. The Adventure Programs funded by Oregon Active, strive to “inspire through positive emotion, challenges, community support and a connection with the natural world that refreshes the human spirit”, an aspiration in close alignment with Fit Right’s organizational values as well as Sobolik’s personal values—values of maintaining a healthy body and spirit, and acting as a positive contributing influence on the community.
The North Face was one of 15 vendors selling exclusive apparel and a discount for the Oregon Active benefit.
Local artist, Brian O’Dell, and Devin Kelly entertained guests with indie classics prior to the runway show.
Hilary Elgin, Adrienne Booth
Sobolik was pleased to have the ability to give back to Oregon Active and worked with West Coast Event Productions to execute the fashion show benefit at Pure Space. Sobolik and his team worked closely with West Coast’s technicians to ensure lighting, audio visual, and the right atmosphere would create an optimal environment for showcasing the apparel in the vendor booths, on the runway, and Oregon Active through an inspirational video and speech delivered by Oregon Active’s CEO, Devin Kelly.
At Oregon Active we provide and faciliatate Adventure Therapy (AT) Programs. These programs inspire through positive emotion, challenges, community support and a connection with the natural world that refreshes the human spirit. We discover our abilities, values, passions, and responsibilities in situations that offer adventure and the unexpected. Our AT Programs undertake tasks that require perseverance, imagination, commitment and above all fun and excitement. We are motivated by creating learning situations that provide something important to think about as individuals and as part of a greater community.
“Adventure therapy offers access to the essential meanings of human life, as revealed both by the natural world and on that foundation it offers an examination of how personal lives and values fit with the underlying structures of humanness.”
Adventure Therapy (AT) Programs
Who these AT Programs Serve
Oregon Active provides these programs for people in our community with all types of disabilities and impairments. We aren’t as concerned about their life challenging condition as we are with their outlook on life. We engage them to discover their passions through a sense of adventure – to enhance personal development, develop life skills, and create lasting memories.
Where we find these amazing people
Oregon Active has had the pleasure to work with some amazing non-profits both locally and nationally. We have teamed up with Shriners Hospital for Children, The Dream Factory, Friends of the Children, Big Brother Big Sister, Cancer Care Resources, Challenge Aspen, Youth Employment Institute, First Descents, and Athletes 4 Cancer to name a few.
Oregon Active also finds a lot of the people we serve from our members and friends. We are always looking for new people to join our AT Programs. Whether their disability is physical, mental, cognitive, developmental or an impairment, we would love to try and help.
Portland, September 14th, 2013. It was a Mad Men inspired evening of 60s-era sizzle at “Starry Night” which featured the talents of “The Voice” John English and VIP after party with Amy Roloff. Since 2009, Amy Roloff Charity Foundation has raised over $750,000 in new giving and in kind donations for local, national and international non-profit organizations and causes.
Zach Roloff & Tori Patton
Rhea Bishop, Kimberly Hartson, Angela Clayton Schmidt, Rebecca Halpin Ross and Amy Roloff
ARCF Board Members Kristen Smith, Robert “RK” Kennedy and Amanda Davenport
A courageous bullying victim who was featured in a special appeal video, Hunter Farrar, attended with his family members including: Tyler Collier, Shanon Nielsen, Rachelle Thayer & Kasy Freema
John Payne of Fred Meyer addresses the crowd.
Casey Hopkin and Carlos Cronquist of Vault Martini with Amy Roloff on the Red Carpet. Vault servers generously donated their time to serve up drinks all night.
Andy Stokes of the Andy Stokes Band with ARCF VP Lisa Dixon and ARCF Board Member Rich Galekovich
John English aka “The Voice” with Courtney Clark of DryFly Distilling – John Performed renditions of Frank Sinatra at the event and DryFly generously donated all of the liquor served.
Presenting Sponsor Ryan Wyman and Guests
Presenting Sponsor Robert “RK” Kennedy and Guests
Singing Amy’s happy birthday song – Emily Brady (Age 13), 2013 Portland Teen Idol Winner on stage with Jeremiah Stroup
Celebrity involvement on local, national and international issues has the power to change lives in a way that would otherwise be extremely difficult or even impossible. Amy Roloff, star of the reality show “Little People, Big World,” is one such celebrity. In 2009, Amy created the Amy Roloff Charity Foundation (ARCF) based in Portland, Oregon to help non-profit organizations raise funds for children and youth who face social, emotional, mental and physical challenges. Working as a facilitator between donors and charities, ARCF works with local, national and international charities that need help raising funds to serve the children and youth in their communities.
In the last 4 years, ARCF has provided support to over 10,000 families in need.
Resources are available for disabled children served by a regional program through the Swindells Resource center- Providence Child Center. ARCF support also includes serving an additional 320 local children participating in an afterschool soccer program for the underserved through Soccer for Success, and Bridge Meadows, an intergenerational neighborhood that brings a higher quality of life for adoptive families with former foster youth and elders. All generations working together, Bridge Meadows creates a successful experience for these kids finally being adopted and out of the foster care system. Smaller organizations such as the ISSA Trust Foundation provide medical equipment and supplies for the kids of the Caribbean who are in severe need.
What makes ARCF unique is its ability to put the funds raised directly back into the community of need?
Donations made to ARCF are not filtered through the bureaucracy before directly benefiting large and small organizations and the communities they serve. These funds are for the children, the families and the communities. Since its creation in 2009, ARCF has partnered with 20 charities and 85 sponsors to raise over $750K in new giving and in kind donations.
The need for a companion organization like ARCF has never been more apparent than in the months following the devastating earthquake in Haiti in 2010. Roloff and her team arrived in the town of Labadee, navigated the quake-wrecked roads to Port-au-Prince, and established a presence at a local orphanage where they distributed hygiene products, toys and other aid. The mission was also to bring awareness to these children in need, filming was done and the effort televised on an episode of “Little People, Big World”.
In 2011 and 2012, ARCF continued the relief effort in Port-au-Prince Haiti in partnership with Generosity Water by funding 3 clean water wells at the same local orphanage and other close in the areas. Over 1500 children now have daily access to safe clean drinking water.
We are excited to share that we are focusing on a new program for 2014!
Partnering with Portland State University’s Dr. Lisa Aasheim, for creating credible curriculum, the program will include Anti Bullying and Character building, both very important factors needing attention from a local and national level. Having Dwarfism, Amy has had many traumatic life experiences that compel her to create and share this program with our impressionable youth. The vision of this program is to empower and give kids options to deal with crisis situations rather than resorting to suicide and violence.
When you give to ARCF, your donation goes directly to the charities and communities in need to impact kids’ lives. Amy Roloff has chosen to lend her celebrity name, and good works foundation, to the empowerment of children by helping non-profit organizations raise the funds they need to serve these communities.
It takes a team to change a child’s life. Join the Amy Roloff Charity Foundation in its mission to make a “Little difference in a BIG WORLD”.
For any questions or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Lisa Dixon at 503-789-9938 or lisa@amyroloffcf.org for more information.
Mission Statement:
The Amy Roloff Charity Foundation will advocate, inspire and add value to the lives of youth who face personal life challenges.
ARCF will bring hope to youth by facilitating charitable giving between donors and effective organizations that serve on a local, national and international level. These resources will support and create opportunities for youth to reach their greatest potential and be productive members in their communities.
Portland, Sept. 21, 2013. A superhero themed gala had super-sized results as organizers proclaimed, “CCA’s League of Extraordinary Friends unleash a force of goodness for seriously ill children and teens.”James Mercer of the The Shins, Stephanie Schneiderman, CCA Founder and CEO, Regina Ellis, Patrick Lamb, and Amy Maxwell took the stage to celebrate. (Photo credit, Michael Gary) Portland-based Children’s Cancer Association (CCA) celebrated hitting $1,000,000 for the first-time ever. “For one magical night, the Portland Art Museum was converted into the Hall of Justice and welcomed more than 600 honored super-powered guests,” the nonprofit reported.
Kristen and Shane Schweitzer, 2013 Hero Gala Presenting Sponsors Angela Sheffield and CCA Ambassador Board Chair, CS Sheffield, and Wesley Sheffield
Patrick McCreery, VP, General Manager, FOX 12, and CCA Communications Director, Diana Szymczak
CCA Ambassador Board Member, Aaron Cooper, Innovation Design Director, Nike, Inc., Rob Stone, Co-CEO, cornerstone/The Fader, Lauren Gonzales, Megan Cooper, and CCA Founding Board Chair, Clare Hamill, Vice President and COO, Nike Affilates, Nike, Inc.
CCA Ambassador Board Chair, Kristin Duval, Regional Sales Manager, PacificSource Health Plans, and CCA Founder and CEO, Regina Ellis
The highlight item of this year’s auction was a private dinner with, and concert by, kd Lang and Black Prairie for 50 guests.The appeal raised money to support CCA’s innovative programs that serve thousands of seriously ill children, teens, and their families locally, and reach across the nation, and will fund:
New mobile music carts, instruments, and technology for MusicRx®, CCA’s flagship in-hospital music medicine program which serves six area pediatric healthcare facilities, including Randall Children’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel and Doernbecher Children’s Hospital
Technology to expand MyMusicRx.org, the online extension of MusicRx
Family retreats at the Alexandra Ellis Caring Cabin™ in Pacific City, OR
Wishes and creating unique life experiences through the Link program
Chemo Pal® Mentor Matches for kids and teens undergoing treatment
MusicRx expansion into the pediatric Emergency Room at Randall Children’s Hospital
The Printing of CCA’s Kid’s Cancer Pages, a nationally-distributed comprehensive resource guide for families with seriously ill children
And, more!
CCA Board Chair, Andy Lytle, Division Vice President, Majestic Fine Wines, and his wife, Mary
Chemo Pal Mentor, Brian, and Joe
CCA Board Member, Lisa Thompson, and CCA VP, Development, Dave Schaeffer
Holley DeShaw, Melissa Maag, CCA Ambassador Board Member, Allison Clarke, Kirsti Holley, Antje Fimmel, and Kendra Matthews
Brad Durham, CCA Board Member, Katherine Durham, VP, Marketing & Communications, The Standard, and Paul Gulick, CCA Board Chair Emeritus, Co-Founder, Infocus, Founder, Clarity Visual Systems
Gerardo Carucci, GM Brasil World Cup, Nike, Inc., Tancredi Vitale, Senior Director, Global Nike Sportswear Football Apparel, CCA Board Member, Andrea Corradini, Senior Director, Emerging Markets Running Merchandising, Nike, Inc., Cholee Thompson, Owner, Ryan Artists, Greg Thompson, VP, Global Nike Sportswear Footwear, and, Emanuele Granalli, Seniro Director, Brasil Merchandising, Nike, Inc.
The grand finale!
From CCA:
This event was made possible by presenting sponsor, the Sheffield Family, through a matching grant by The Eranda Foundation, and through the sponsorship of other generous individuals, including: Andy and Mary Lytle, Jeff and Malia Owens, The Standard, Momentus Insurance Brokerage Inc., Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation, Regence, Randall Children’s Hospital, USB, HealthNet, Genenetech, Beecher Carlson, Reliable Credit, Cresna, Fred Meyer, Columbia Distributing, Opus Events Agency, CenturyLink, Cigna, ClubSport, D6 Inc., FOX 12 Oregon, The Fuerst Family, Geffen Mesher, Gentech Dentist, Icebreaker, J&M Homes, LAIKA, Moda Health, Portland Trail Blazers, Skanska, Target, and The Clymb.
The Children’s Cancer Association didn’t start with a foundation, it started with a family. One who faced its own battle with serious pediatric illness almost two decades ago in Portland, OR. From that experience came a passionate commitment and focus: To deliver the resources, the friendship and the healing power of music to families facing the same challenges.
Unlike many organizations dedicated to the worthy goal of someday finding a cure for cancer, CCA is all about today. We specialize on the moment, delivering immediate help to kids and teens facing life-threatening illness. When seriously ill children and their families need more than medicine, CCA’s innovative programs create joy one moment at a time.
For more information about the Children’s Cancer Association, contact Diana Szymczak, CCA Communications Director, at (503) 200-5115 or dszymczak@joyrx.org.
Aurora, Oregon, September 26th, 2013. With cold weather approaching funds raised at a recent charity golf tournament are much appreciated by homeless advocates at Human Solutions. Event sponsor, Dennis’ 7 Dees Landscaping and Garden Centerspresented local charity, Human Solutions with a check for $100,402 to help fund two shelters and other programs for homeless families. Each year, Human Solutions provides shelter and/or housing to over 1000 families, including over 400 homeless children.
Dave Snodgrass, Dennis’ 7 Dees; Dean Snodgrass, Dennis’ 7 Dees; Jean DeMaster, Executive Director of Human Solutions; Drew Snodgrass, Dennis’ 7 Dees; Terry Ciecko, Human Solutions Board Member
The amount represents a increase over last year’s tournament, which raised $57,000, especially impressive in this economy. “We were very proud of our efforts in 2012, but when we heard about the lack of funds for the Family Winter Shelter, we just decided to up the ante” said Dave Snodgrass, president of Dennis’ 7 Dees Landscaping and Garden Centers. “We’ve been working on this, literally since we put the signs away last year.” Snodgrass continued.
“The tournament is a great way for community members to really help our neighbors who are struggling. It always amazes me how much we can get accomplished when we all band together. The problem of homelessness is too big for one agency or even the government to fix, but my brothers; Dean, Drew and myself are proud we can make a difference by doing our part right here where we work and live.” stated Snodgrass.
The Emergency Family Winter Shelter is currently scheduled only to be open from November 2013 through March 2014. “We will use the funding from this tournament to now keep the shelter open through April, insuring that homeless children and their families will have a roof over their heads along with a safe environment to begin their pathway out of poverty.” stated Human Solutions, executive director, Jean DeMaster “None of this would be possible without the partnership between Human Solutions and Dennis’ 7 Dees. It is a model of how much can be accomplished, in a community, when two small organizations have big goals with great determination.” concluded DeMaster.
Human Solution’s next event will be Gresham Breakfast: Wednesday, October 16th, 7:00am-8:30am
Persimmon Country Club. Here’s a link with more information:
About Human Solutions:
Human Solutions’ mission is to help low-income and homeless families and individuals gain self-sufficiency by providing affordable housing, family support services, job readiness training, and economic development opportunities.
Human Solutions has been helping homeless and low-income families build pathways out of poverty for 25 years. Our 245-mile service area in outer East Portland and East Multnomah County includes some of the highest poverty neighborhoods in Multnomah County. Last year, we touched the lives of more than 88,000 people. We offer services in four interrelated areas:
Prevention Services: Each year, we help over 7,000 households avoid having their utilities shut off and remain warm and safe in their homes by providing utility assistance. We also help over 440 households remain in their homes each year through short-term emergency rent assistance.
Direct Services to Homeless Families: We operate emergency shelter, transitional housing, “Housing First” programs, and permanent supportive housing. Acting on the belief that housing is a basic human right, we move homeless families into permanent housing as quickly as possible and then offer them the supportive services necessary to stabilize their situations and overcome their homelessness.
Employment and Economic Development Programs: Having a family wage job is essential to a family’s ability to overcome homelessness and be self-sufficient. Human Solutions operates three distinct employment and economic development programs that help more than 300 individuals with significant barriers to employment find family wage jobs and/or improve their job skills to increase their household incomes each year.
Affordable Housing: Human Solutions owns and operates 16 high-quality affordable housing complexes containing 608 apartments. At each property we offer Resident Services, which help families maintain housing by connecting them to quality social, educational and employment services (both within Human Solutions and in the wider community) so they can move forward in their lives. Last year, about 620 families, comprised of more than 1,900 people, resided in our affordable housing.
Portland, September 19th, 2013. Retired Legacy Health ophthalmologist, Dr. Richard Chenoweth received the 2013 Wistar Morris Award during a dinner at the Multnomah Athletic Club. Honored for his generosity and significant contributions to medical excellence at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center. He’s pictured with Linda Stevenson and Kathy Milstead. Dr. Chenoweth served as chief of ophthalmology at Legacy Good Samaritan and director of Devers Memorial Eye Clinic for 17 years. The event also raised more than $95,000 for Devers Eye Institute at Legacy Good Samaritan.
The Wistar Morris Award honors individuals who demonstrate the highest level of leadership through philanthropy and service to Good Samaritan Foundation and Legacy Good Samaritan. Named for Episcopal Bishop Wistar Morris – founder of Good Samaritan Hospital – the Wistar Morris Society recognizes individuals who care about the health of the community and give generously.
Wistar Morris Award recipient, Dr. Richard G. Chenoweth addresses the audience
Good Samaritan Foundation board chair, Dr. Brian Battalia and his wife, Aphrodite
Highlights of the evening included a story by grateful patient Joy Ross emphasizing the work of Devers Eye Institute, as well as a keynote address by Dr. Michael Marmor, author and professor of ophthalmology at Stanford University School of Medicine.
Good Samaritan Foundation raises funds and promotes visibility in the community to assist Legacy Good Samaritan in providing exceptional health care. To make a donation or learn more about supporting Legacy Good Samaritan, call 503-413-5585. For more information about the work of Legacy Health foundations, call the Office of Philanthropy at 503-415-4700 or visit www.legacyhealth.org/giving.
Heather Mansberger and Dr. Emily Jones with flowers donated by Zupan’s Market
Event committee members Joan Strand and Ron King
Dr. George Brown, Legacy Health CEO, with Dr. Anthony Melaragno, Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center CAO
About Legacy Health – The Office of Philanthropy
The Legacy Health Office of Philanthropy coordinates all fundraising initiatives for Legacy Health, a nonprofit health care system serving Oregon and Southwest Washington. Our foundations – Randall Children’s, Emanuel, Good Samaritan, Meridian Park, Mount Hood and Salmon Creek – support the system’s six acute care hospitals as well as its clinical, educational and research programs. The Office of Philanthropy is committed to Legacy’s mission of providing good health for our people, our patients, our communities and our world. For more information, please visit www.legacyhealth.org/giving.
Portland, September 22nd, 2013. Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon helped kick off Bon Appétit Presents: Feast Portland. Activist are hoping the celebration of Oregon’s agricultural bounty will help them feed more hungry people. In 2012, Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon received $23,000 of the $46,000 Feast raised for Oregon hunger relief. Nonprofits received 50% of the net benefits from Feast and were happy to continue the partnership this fall. One of the free events took place in Director’s Park where people sampled surf-and-turf from Whole Foods meat and seafood partners.
Ocean Beauty Seafood was serving up lox and salmon caviar.
American Homestead served up Hampshire pork sausages.
Portlanders lined up 20 deep for free sliders.
Feast’s Best Butcher contest featured 11 butchers and 11 fishmonger sharpening their knives to go head-to-tail for the glory of being named best in their craft.
Ticket sales from the food festival supported both Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon and the national nonprofit, Share Our Strength. Feast Portland coincides with No Kid Hungry month in September, promoted by Share Our Strength to raise awareness of hunger across the country. As kids head back to school, a staggering 285,591 children (53 percent of all students in Oregon) are counting on free and reduced price meals to make it through the school day. Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon helps connect kids to the healthy food they need to learn and grow. “Kids are our future, and they need a healthy start in life to be successful as adults,” said Patti Whitney-Wise, executive director of Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon. “When children get enough to eat, they can concentrate in school instead of being distracted by how hungry they feel. We see this event as a catalyst for engaging the food industry and Oregonians in creating a better future for our kids.”
In Oregon, one in four children is at risk for hunger, one of the highest rates of child food insecurity in the nation. The consequences of child hunger are long-term, interfering with a child’s ability to learn, earn and thrive. More than half (53%) of Oregon’s students (K-12) are eligible for free or reduced price school meals, reflecting a high need in many communities.
“Hunger is a serious problem, but it can be solved,” said Whitney-Wise. “Private and public partnerships make all the difference, such as the Feast Portland event. We are fortunate to have a plan in our state, Ending Hunger Before it Begins. I encourage all Oregonians to help reverse this devastating trend. Together we will have a greater impact.”
How to help:
Read Oregon’s plan, Ending Hunger Before it Begins Become a Partner: Donate funds, Volunteer, Share your voice
Visit www.nokidhungry.org or www.oregonhunger.org for more ways to help.
Portland, September 22rd, 2013. More than 10,000 people marked the 27th anniversary of AIDS Walk Portland by pounding the pavement for 2.5 miles and raising a tenth of Cascade AIDS Project’s (CAP) annual budget. (photo credit, Digital Reality Portland) Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici addressed the crowd at the opening ceremony in Pioneer Courthouse Square.
Cascade AIDS Project, AIDS Walk 2013 with 10,000 in the square
Female impersonator Cassie Nova added sparkle to the walk which started at Pioneer Courthouse Square.
Andrew Shayde was one of the top fundraisers. He’s joined at the square by and Chris Ritchey.
Bekah Telew and Daniel Ryan Shor at Pioneer Courthouse Square.
At the AIDS Walk 2013 supporters were remembering loved ones
CAP hoped to raise over $450,000 at this year’s event which was still less than the 2012 total. CAP will continue to accept donations. You can donate by clicking this link.
All money raised goes to support CAP’s efforts to prevent new HIV infections, care for people affected or infected by HIV/AIDS, educate communities to eliminate stigma and shame and advocate for immediate action in combating the pandemic.
“We are thrilled for this year’s walk,” said Peter Parisot, Development Director for Cascade AIDS Project. “CAP and its partners have been raising funds to fight HIV/AIDS for almost 30 years now. Though the needs of those living with HIV/AIDS have changed, the need for our services has not. There are still over 50,000 new HIV infections in the U.S every year and with more than one million Americans infected. We can’t afford not to take action.”
Of the estimated 7,000 people living with HIV in Oregon – twenty percent (20%) do not know they are HIV positive. AIDS Walk Portland raises critical funds to increase awareness of the disease and support those living with the virus. Practicing safe sex (using a condom), knowing your HIV status, and getting access to housing and health care if HIV positive are the most effective methods for preventing and treating the disease. CAP will use money raised by the walk to fund program areas including housing and support services, education and prevention, free HIV testing, and connecting people to healthcare.
Sponsors for the 2013 AIDS Walk Portland include Presenting Sponsor, Chevron; Advocacy Sponsors: Oregon Health and Sciences University and Macy’s; Gold Level Sponsors Genetech, Hobo’s, Nike, and PQ Monthly; Silver Sponsors: Fred Meyer’s, FamilyCare Health Plans, Departure, Hotel Monaco, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, NW Natural, Wells Fargo, and The Standard; Hydration Sponsors: Legacy Health System, Pfizer, Providence Health and Services, and Complete Clothing. There are several media sponsors including Clear Channel Outdoor, El Hispanic, Kink FM, Live 95.5 Just Out, Alpha Broadcasting, the Oregonian, and TriMet.
About Cascade AIDS Project: Incorporated in 1985, Cascade AIDS Project (CAP) is the oldest and largest AIDS Service Organization in Oregon and Southwest Washington. CAP’s mission is to prevent HIV infections, support and empower people affected and infected by HIV/AIDS, and eliminate HIV/AIDS-related stigma. Last year, more than 80% of CAP’s $5.9 million budget went directly to programs serving the agency’s mission, earning Charity Navigator’s top rating. CAP’s programs serve the broad and diverse set of communities touched by HIV—from teens, Latinos, the gay community, and families living with HIV to the thousands of individuals throughout the state who seek education each year through the Oregon HIV/STD Hotline. All in all, last year CAP provided HIV/AIDS education and prevention services to nearly 15,000 people and coordinated wrap-around support services for 1,680 people affected and infected with HIV/AIDS in the fivecounty Portland metropolitan area.
CAP’s History: Founded in 1983 and incorporated in 1985, Cascade AIDS Project is the oldest and largest community-based provider of HIV services, housing, education and advocacy in Oregon and Southwest Washington.
Before 1983, two main organizations provided HIV-related services to the Portland area community: CHESS (Community Health and Essential Support Services), who provided one-on-one emotional support, and Cascade AIDS Project (CAP), who provided education to gay/bisexual men. Their merger in 1983 consolidated HIV-related services and prevented competition for very limited resources. The new CAP was a barebones organization, consisting of an executive director and a PAL program coordinator. These two staff members were assisted by volunteers and a 21-member volunteer board of directors. Under the first executive director of the new CAP, services expanded to include a volunteer-operated Speakers Bureau, a Client Services Program, and the Oregon AIDS Hotline (a joint venture between CAP and the Oregon State Health Division). The total agency budget was less than $100,000.
In 1985, CAP was legally incorporated, and in 1986 we received our 501(c)3 designation. CAP became a strong voice in the community for HIV education, prevention and service issues.
In 1986, “From All Walks of Life” became the first pledge walk to benefit AIDS care and education in Portland. The “AIDS Walk” fundraiser has become an annual event that draws thousands of participants, community recognition and support.
In 1989, CAP created the “Art Auction,” an auction of artwork by local and well-known artists, with all proceeds raised helping to support the work of Cascade AIDS Project and assist people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in Oregon and Southwest Washington.
In 1991, after the inception of the Ryan White CARE Act (RWCA), CAP received its first funds to provide HIV non-medical services to clients. After establishing a contract with Multnomah County to provide prevention and wellness services in 1992, CAP launched a new prevention campaign.
CAP has grown considerably since its beginning, from a 2 person staff to over 60, from a budget of $100,000 to over $6 million. CAP operates multiple programs from its main service site and receives support from over 600 volunteers. It has always been an organization that depends heavily on volunteers. This is true now more than ever, as CAP expands services to meet growing needs in the community.
Cascade AIDS Project helps people put their lives back together; to secure housing, find essential medical care and deal with the countless issues that make the difference between giving up or getting up and going on. With HIV and AIDS, the huge emotional and financial burden to all affected by it can be staggering. Some people lose their jobs, their housing, their friends and family and any means of support. Imagine what it must be like for someone who suddenly finds they are without the essentials we so often take for granted. Shelter, life skills training, and emotional support; these are what CAP provides.
Portland, September 20th, 2013. Neighborhood House held its 7th annual Leadership Circle Dinner to honor top supporters including Pamela Kambur of Home Forward, Mari Yerger of Neighborhood House, and Harriet Cormack, Home Forward Board of Commissioners Chair. They toured the construction site of the new Children’s Center the agency is building in conjunction with Home Forward’s new Stephens Creek Crossing affordable housing site in Southwest Portland. Guests toured the site to view the early construction stages of what will become the Children’s Center and Opportunity Center. (Photo credit, Ann Rogers-Williams) They also had a chance to see a built-out version of both a standard and an ADA-compliant apartment. As one viewer said, “It is so great to see how nice and accessible these apartments will be.”
50 major donors and Neighborhood House staff celebrating together at the Opportunity Center site which will service low-income people.
Donors and Neighborhood House staff celebrating together in the Opportunity Center site.
Executive Director, Rick Nitti welcomes new Head Start Director, Nancy Perin.
After the tour, participants enjoyed a presentation and dinner in the partially-built Opportunity Center, next to the Children’s Center site. Executive Director Rich Nitti launched the event with highlights of the agency’s work in the last year and an update the Children’s Center Capital Campaign, which has raised more than $350,000 to date toward its goal of $900,000.
Mark Holloway, the Executive Director of Social Venture Partners, shared remarks on the importance of supporting early childhood education. Neighborhood House’s new Head Start Manager, Nancy Perin, spoke about how Head Start is addressing the vital educational and social needs of children during their critic first five years of development. The event wrapped up with Head Start parent Natalie Fisher sharing her first hand experiences and successes with her own child’s participation in the program. She explained how she had learned the value “of getting down on the floor with your children” and finding new ways to participate in their learning process.
About Neighborhood House: Across the Community and Across the Life-span Neighborhood House delivers innovative and life-changing programs for low-income people of all ages. Our highly-effective education and social support programs fall into the following core service areas:
Our dedicated staff and volunteers work in schools, community centers and public housing sites, as well as our own facilities, to serve more than 18,000 people each year across the greater Portland area.
Comprehensive Services
Neighborhood House’s wide array of programs provide comprehensive services that effectively meet the needs of our low-income and senior clients, many who struggle with not just one, but multiple challenges. We believe our wrap-around service model is the most efficient and compassionate way to help people in need.
Meeting the Needs of Diverse Communities
Neighborhood House’s clients represent a remarkably diverse mix of ethnicities and cultures. To meet the needs of these diverse communities, Neighborhood House offers culturally specific services for African, Latino, Middle Eastern, and Russian immigrants in various programs and requires cultural competency of all programs and staff. 38% of our program staff are bicultural from cultures served by Neighborhood House; 12% more are bilingual. Neighborhood House staff regularly provide diversity training for other organizations, including Multnomah County, Portland Public Schools and Home Forward (formerly Housing Authority of Portland).
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CAP has grown considerably since its beginning, from a 2 person staff to over 60, from a budget of $100,000 to over $6 million. CAP operates multiple programs from its main service site and receives support from over 600 volunteers. It has always been an organization that depends heavily on volunteers. This is true now more than ever, as CAP expands services to meet growing needs in the community.
