Guide Dogs for the Blind Celebrates Presentation of Young Puppies

Guide Dogs for the Blind Celebrates Presentation of Young Puppies

Portland, OR. Guide Dogs for the Blind celebrated its Oregon Fall Luncheon on November 4th at The Nines Hotel in downtown Portland. Attendees enjoyed a wine reception where they mingled with GDB puppies and guide dogs, followed by a lunch that featured a moving and educational program. Mark Wright and Claire Widmark-Wright met their new guide dog puppy Kona. As is customary at GDB events, a presentation of young puppies to their new volunteer puppy raisers closed out the event to the delight of the guests.

Honoree Howard Hedinger with keynote speaker Kathryn Marksen-Simonson and her guide dog, Nabisco.

Honoree Howard Hedinger with keynote speaker Kathryn Marksen-Simonson and her guide dog, Nabisco.

Guide Dogs for the Blind President and CEO Christine Benninger with GDB Board Member Von Summers.

Guide Dogs for the Blind President and CEO Christine Benninger with GDB Board Member Von Summers.

There was a demo of GDB’s positive reinforcement methods for guide dog training, and alumna Kathryn Marxen Simonson, with her guide dog, Nabisco, provided the keynote address. In addition, GDB honored long-time supporter, Howard Hedinger, for his many years of dedication to our mission. 

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From Guide Dogs for the Blind:

Since 1942, Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) has been creating partnerships between people, dogs, and communities. With exceptional client services and a robust network of instructors, puppy raisers, donors, and volunteers, we prepare highly qualified guide dogs to serve and empower individuals who are blind or have low vision from throughout the United States and Canada.

All of the services for our clients are provided free of charge, including personalized training and extensive post-graduation support, plus financial assistance for veterinary care, if needed. Our work is made possible by the generous support of our donors and volunteers; we receive no government funding.

Compassion in Action Benefit Raises $200,000 for Central City Concern

Compassion in Action Benefit Raises $200,000 for Central City Concern

Portland, OR. More than 500 people attended Central City Concern‘s (CCC) Compassion in Action annual luncheon at the Portland Art Museum on November 15th. Mayor-elect Ted Wheeler opened the program, which featured inspiring stories of CCC staff and clients as well as words from Ed Blackburn, CCC’s executive director. The event raised about $200,000. (Photo Credit, Andrea Lonas)

More than 500 people attended the sold out event.

More than 500 people attended the sold out event.

Ed Blackburn received a standing ovation after detailing CCC's commitment to move forward.

Ed Blackburn received a standing ovation after detailing CCC’s commitment to move forward.

Here’s a video about Central City Concern.

From Central City Concern:

Central City Concern (CCC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency serving single adults and families in the Portland metro area who are impacted by homelessness, poverty and addictions. Founded in 1979, the agency has developed a comprehensive continuum of affordable housing options integrated with direct social services including healthcare, recovery and employment. CCC currently has a staff of 600+, an annual operating budget of $47 million and serves more than 13,000 individuals annually.

Portland Police Bureau Sunshine Division Packs 1,600 Food Boxes for Thanksgiving

Portland Police Bureau Sunshine Division Packs 1,600 Food Boxes for Thanksgiving

Portland, OR. Volunteers at the Portland Police Bureau Sunshine Division packed 1,600 boxes of food to help needy people celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. Over the course of 94 years, this program has allowed thousands upon thousands of families and individuals in the Portland-metro area to have a holiday meal and a sense of stability during difficult times in their lives.

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The Sunshine Division shared one story exemplifying how one small act of kindness can illuminate a period of darkness and change the course of someone’s life.

Here is William’s story:

“Last year I received a holiday food box from you guys. I had just gotten off the streets and placed into my new apartment. Life seemed good from anyone looking in from out, but I was very depressed. Not only had I lost my grandmother that summer but I decided to change my life which included the friends I had.

I had no one to spend the holidays with.

I remember my housing specialist from Cascadia Behavioral Healthcare helping me sign up for the food box but I totally forgot about it. I started feeling more depressed and I actually started to want to end my life. Sad but very true. I was telling myself something has to give.

I got a knock on my door, and it was volunteers with my food box… I’ll never forget the feeling.

I had lost everything. No family or friends for the holidays and the Sunshine Division became my family. I may not have been able to enjoy it with you all but just knowing so many people cared. I truly needed the food but more then that I needed to know someone cared.

Thats my story you can edit it or use it, but please try to share it because what you all do, it’s important. You truly bring joy into peoples lives.” – William

There is another opportunity to help. Here’s information about the efforts for Christmas:

With the help of hundreds of volunteers, the Sunshine Division will pack and deliver 3,500 Holiday Food Boxes this December.  RSVPs are required to participate in pack nights and delivery day.

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2016 Pack Nights:

Monday, December 12, 6p – 8p

Wednesday, December 14, 6p – 8p

2016 Delivery Day:

Saturday, December 17th, 9a – 1pm

Scheduling for holiday volunteerism begins in October.  Email mailto:Melissa@sunshinedivision.org to provide support at SE precinct, East precinct, North precinct and Sunshine Division.

Second night gang 12.17.14

 

First Responders Thanked at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center Benefit

First Responders Thanked at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center Benefit

Portland, OR. Legacy Emanuel Medical Center celebrated special caregivers and first responders who care for patients. More than 235 guests gathered at the Sentinel Hotel on October, 28th to thank the heroes, like Portland Fire and Rescue professionals, and raise money for Legacy Emanuel’s programs and services. The event netted nearly $130,000.

Event guests raise their paddles in support of Legacy Emanuel Medical Center.

Event guests raise their paddles in support of Legacy Emanuel Medical Center.

Legacy Medical Group cardiologist Amish Desai, M.D., (center) celebrates a successful event with his team.

Legacy Medical Group cardiologist Amish Desai, M.D., (center) celebrates a successful event with his team.

Emanuel Medical Center Foundation trustee Kurt Hansen (center) enjoys the evening with friends.

Lori J. Morgan, M.D., (center) president of Legacy Emanuel Medical Center welcomes guests as they arrive.

Lori J. Morgan, M.D., (center) president of Legacy Emanuel Medical Center welcomes guests as they arrive.

From Legacy Health:

Legacy Health is a locally owned nonprofit health care provider. At Legacy Health, we offer compassionate, comprehensive care to everyone who walks through our doors. Serving Oregon and Southwest Washington, Legacy has seven medical centers, including a specialized children’s hospital, more than 50 clinics, a research institute and hospice services. Legacy is committed to providing exceptional health care. We rely on generous donations, fundraising events, grants and bequests to support the services that assist patients and their families with the financial and emotional impacts of medical issues, as well as help fund advanced medical technology, preventive screenings, educational programs, research and more.

Children’s Healing Art Project Celebrates With Sold Out Benefit

Children’s Healing Art Project Celebrates With Sold Out Benefit

Portland, OR. A sold-out crowd of 300+ escaped to CHAPlandia: a celebration of art+healing benefiting the Children’s Healing Art Project at PureSpace. The fifth annual event on November 5th celebrated the 10th anniversary of Children’s Healing Art Project (CHAP). Long-time CHAP supporters Gila Lane, Kiva Lane and Paul Block enjoyed the photobooth. (Photo credit, Matt O’brien of mattophoto.comThe annual gala to support CHAP, netted $125,000. Portland-based author Cheryl Strayed served as emcee at the fundraising event featuring 17-year-old CHAP participant and cancer survivor Leslie P from Beaverton, OR. 

Emcee and CHAP supporter Cheryl Strayed connecting with a guest

Emcee and CHAP supporter Cheryl Strayed connecting with a guest. (Photo credit, Izzy Ventura Meda)

CHAP founding donors Charlie and Darci Swindells were honored as part of the celebration.

CHAP founding donors Charlie and Darci Swindells were honored as part of the celebration.

Featured CHAP artist Leslie P opened the evening with a celebratory dance.

Featured CHAP artist Leslie P opened the evening with a celebratory dance.

Original CHAP donor Anton Pardini inspired attendees by spontaneously offering to match $5,000 in gifts.

Original CHAP donor Anton Pardini inspired attendees by spontaneously offering to match $5,000 in gifts.

Wendy and Mehdi Farjami of Tribe Hair Studio have attended CHAPlandia every year.

Wendy and Mehdi Farjami of Tribe Hair Studio have attended CHAPlandia every year.

Anjali Rathore and Kristy Charroin, former CHAP board members, reconnect.

Anjali Rathore and Kristy Charroin, former CHAP board members, reconnect.

Stella M, featured artist at the first CHAPlandia event (in 2012), prepares for volunteer henna shift by practicing on her own hand.

Stella M, featured artist at the first CHAPlandia event (in 2012), prepares for volunteer henna shift by practicing on her own hand.

Event chair Lauren Holden Kilbane getting ready for the evening with volunteer Holden Kilbane.

Event chair Lauren Holden Kilbane getting ready for the evening with volunteer Holden Kilbane.

CHAP's staff celebrates the 10th anniversary (from left, Sarah Panetta, Faye Pendergrass, Carolyn Brecht, Sharon Jaye Perrins, Mary Miller Doyle and Maxine Hartwick)

CHAP’s staff celebrates the 10th anniversary (from left, Sarah Panetta, Faye Pendergrass, Carolyn Brecht, Sharon Jaye Perrins, Mary Miller Doyle and Maxine Hartwick)

From CHAP:

At CHAP, children are known for their creativity and ingenuity — not by their disease, diagnosis or disability.

Our innovative and inclusive healing arts programs are provided free of charge to children, teens and families affected by pediatric illness, disability or special need. CHAP provides Oregon’s only in-and-out of hospital interactive healing arts program.

Oregon Zoo Turkey Trot Raises Funds for Animal Care

Oregon Zoo Turkey Trot Raises Funds for Animal Care

Portland, OR. If you’re looking for a way to burn off a few calories on Thanksgiving day, consider the 4-mile fun run, or walk, through Washington Park, which ends inside the zoo. You can Register online with Oregon Road Runners Club or by calling 503-667-0480.

The Thanksgiving Day “Turkey Trot” tradition on Thursday, November 24th, is organized by the Oregon Road Runners Club and raises about $25,000 each year to fund animal care and programs at the zoo.

4 Mile Run 8:00AM PST – 12:00PM PST $40 Registration ends November 20, 2016 at 1:00pm PST
Tot Trot – 1/2 mile inside the Zoo (11 Yrs & Under) 9:30AM PST – 11:00AM PST $25 Registration ends November 20, 2016 at 1:00pm PS

Runners also get the chance to check out the animals.

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Sea otters, Asian elephants and California condors are three of the most iconic species at the Oregon Zoo.

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Here’s a video with all the sights and sounds of last year’s Turkey Trot.

Here are more details:

Location: Oregon Zoo in Portland, OR; Packet pickup is inside the World Forestry Center’s Cheatham Hall

Date: Thursday, November 24, 2016

Time: 8:00am

The most popular ORRC race, the Columbia Bank / ORRC Turkey Trot at the Oregon Zoo is a multi-generational family event. Runners and walkers of all abilities love the 4-mile, untimed outing between the Oregon Zoo and the International Rose Gardens. Participants finish inside the zoo, much to the delight of two-legged and four-legged mammals alike and features three fun kids’ events.

Portland Story Theater’s Night of the Living Donors Offered Spooky Fun

Portland Story Theater’s Night of the Living Donors Offered Spooky Fun

Portland, OR. The first annual Nightmare on Fremont Street: Night of the Living Donors was a hit with supporters. Housed at the brand new Fremont Theater, and benefiting Portland Story Theater, the festivities were capped off with a spooky tale from co-founders Lynne Duddy and Lawrence Howard. By night’s end, Portland Story Theater raised valuable funds to help continue the mission of building community through real, true stories. (Photo credit, Kelly Nissl)

Founders Lawrence Howard and Lynne Duddy performed The Shadow Cage with permission from the estate of Philippa Pearce.

Founders Lawrence Howard and Lynne Duddy performed The Shadow Cage with permission from the estate of Philippa Pearce.

Volunteer Daniel LaForce shares a personal appeal.

Volunteer Daniel LaForce shares a personal appeal.

Volunteer Daniel LaForce also shared the powerful story about how Portland Story Theater and the art of personal narrative positively impacted his life. Aside from stories, over 100 guests were treated to Tarot and palm readings, delicious desserts and a night of dancing to groovy Halloween-inspired tunes. Photos taken by Kelly Nissl.

About Portland Story Theater

Portland Story Theater builds community, promotes understanding, and fosters radical empathy by giving voice to the real, true stories of ordinary people. Our vision is to advance, inspire and expand our community narrative, one story at a time – and in doing so, preserve and promote the ancient art of storytelling in a way that enriches modern life, allowing and encouraging people to be vulnerable and present in ways that are crucial to the full expression of our humanity.

Living Yoga’s “Invest in the Human Spirit” Gala Inspires

Living Yoga’s “Invest in the Human Spirit” Gala Inspires

Portland, OR. On October 21st, Living Yoga hosted its annual “Invest in the Human Spirit” Gala. More than 300 people gathered at the Leftbank Annex for an inspiring night, and more than $111,000 was raised to bring trauma-informed yoga to youth and adults in correctional facilities, drug & alcohol rehabilitation centers, and mental health and social service agencies. (Photo credit, Matt Gonzalez)

Living Yoga Board Members: Sherrie Barger, Chip Gettinger, Hilliary Giglio, Sara McMahon, Sue Aicher (Vice-President), Alan McCollom (Treasurer), Lauren Booth (Executive Director), Heidi Pollard-Hermann, Karen Leib, Sara Morrow (President), and Leighann Franson (Secretary). Not Pictured: Chris Calarco.

Living Yoga Board Members: Sherrie Barger, Chip Gettinger, Hilliary Giglio, Sara McMahon, Sue Aicher (Vice-President), Alan McCollom (Treasurer), Lauren Booth (Executive Director), Heidi Pollard-Hermann, Karen Leib, Sara Morrow (President), and Leighann Franson (Secretary). Not Pictured: Chris Calarco.

Terri & Alex Cole connect with Noah Schultz, 2015 Living Yoga featured student

Terri & Alex Cole connect with Noah Schultz, 2015 Living Yoga featured student

Mimi Clinton shares her inspiring story.

Mimi Clinton shares her inspiring story.

This year, Living Yoga highlighted the story of Mimi, who found the inner strength and confidence she needed to make profound changes in her life and transition from Coffee Creek Correctional Facility to a life of hope, healing and purpose. Living Yoga students, like Mimi, are re-entering our community each day with skills to realize their own potential and engage in a fulfilling life. Each year, we deliver inspiration and hope to thousands of Living Yoga students to make our communities stronger.

“Having the option to do Living Yoga seriously changed my life. It was my medicine while I was there. It gave me purpose, it gave me an outlet, it gave me hope.” – Mimi, Past Student, Coffee Creek Correctional Facility

Chip Gettinger, Past Board President, shares his suppor

Chip Gettinger, Board Member and past President, shares his support.

From Living Yoga:

We are grateful for the outstanding support from our generous sponsors for making the evening possible, including Lululemon, Portland Natural Health, Chown Hardware, Therapeutic Associates, Umpqua Bank, Goumi Kids, Jewel Yoga, Compass Oncology, Providence Health & Services, Columbia Sportswear, PrAna, YoYoYogi, GP Kitchen and Actual Industries.

It is with the support of our generous donors and 130 active volunteer teachers that we are able to deliver these life-changing programs to more youth and adults like Mimi, and support our community in becoming a safer, more loving, and more resilient place for everyone to live and thrive.

Human Solutions Raises Funds and Awareness

Human Solutions Raises Funds and Awareness

Portland, OR. Human Solutions raised awareness of family homelessness and the need for more affordable housing at its 2nd annual Inspire Dinner on October 27th at the Portland Marriott City Center. The event generated $43,500 to support Human Solutions’ programs and services to alleviate poverty and homelessness in East Multnomah County. Inspire Dinner emcee Jo Ann Hardesty, who is also on the Human Solutions Board of Directors, shared a joke with Kakieba Taylor, the evening’s participant speaker. Kakieba Taylor is a Human Solutions program participant who was homeless with her four children before receiving assistance to move into one of the agency’s 720 units of affordable housing in East Multnomah County. (Photo credit, Andie Petkus)

 Multnomah County Chair Deborah Kafoury, pictured with Human Solutions’ Executive Director Andy Miller, was a special guest at the agency’s 2016 Inspire Dinner.

Multnomah County Chair Deborah Kafoury, pictured with Human Solutions’ Executive Director Andy Miller, was a special guest at the agency’s 2016 Inspire Dinner.

Bank of America Merrill Lynch was the presenting sponsor of Human Solutions’ 2016 Inspire Dinner. Jan Laskey, Senior Vice President of NW Community Development Banking for Bank of America Merrill Lynch, welcomed the crowd and presented Human Solutions with a $7,500 grant for the Homeless Families Program at the event.

Human Solutions Board Member Jo Ann Hardesty and Board President Carla Piluso at the Inspire Dinner. Jo Ann is also president of the local NAACP chapter, and Carla is state representative for House District 50, which includes south Gresham and a small portion of SE Portland. Both are also active in various other community causes.

Human Solutions Board Member Jo Ann Hardesty and Board President Carla Piluso at the Inspire Dinner. Jo Ann is also president of the local NAACP chapter, and Carla is state representative for House District 50, which includes south Gresham and a small portion of SE Portland. Both are also active in various other community causes.

Guests learned about trauma-informed care (TIC) from Mandy Davis, PhD, LCSW, who co-directs Trauma Informed Oregon. TIC recognizes the adverse impact of trauma on children and families, and is an integral part of the social service model at Human Solutions.

About Human Solutions

Human Solutions focuses on helping homeless and low-income families in East Multnomah County gain stability through safe housing, family support, job readiness programs, and economic opportunities. The agency works not only to remedy the symptoms of poverty, but also to creatively address its root causes by giving families the tools they need to thrive. Human Solutions is the largest nonprofit affordable housing developer and operator in its 245-mile East Portland/East Multnomah County service area, with 18 low-income apartment complexes featuring 720 units of permanently affordable housing. The new Human Solutions Family Center at 160th and Stark in Portland provides the only emergency shelter for families experiencing homelessness that is open 24/7, 365 days per year. The agency offers utility assistance to prevent homelessness and operates five employment programs to help individuals with significant barriers to employment find living wage jobs and/or improve their job skills to increase their household incomes. For more information, visit www.humansolutions.org.

Edwards Center 10th Annual Luncheon Raises Funds for Adults with Disabilities

Edwards Center 10th Annual Luncheon Raises Funds for Adults with Disabilities

Portland, OR. The Edwards Center 10th Annual Luncheon on October 6th raised $195,000.00 for programs and services for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. The “Find One Hundred Ways” luncheon at the Multnomah Athletic Club featured Portland’s own contemporary jazz pianist, Tom Grant who posed for a photo with Jessica Leitner and Jean Edwards. Tom Grant became involved with Edwards Center because of his own special interest in services provided to people with developmental disabilities. Dirk Fournier of the Fournier Group was the Master of Ceremonies and was the presenting sponsor at the event. (Photo credit, Andie Petkus)

Tom Grant’s music is the inspiration for this positive and creative video.


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From The Edwards Center:

We believe that people with Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, and other developmental disabilities have tremendous potential.  That’s why we’ve created a lifelong plan of services to provide our participants with homes, jobs, and a chance to participate in the world around them.  Since 1972 we’ve worked with our clients, their families, and their friends to ensure that adults with developmental disabilities have the opportunity to live and thrive in Oregon.