Portland’s 9th Fertile Ground Festival Ready to Feature 70 + Events

Portland’s 9th Fertile Ground Festival Ready to Feature 70 + Events

Portland, OR. Theatre, dance, circus, sketch comedy, music, and animation will all be featured in the Portland-grown 2018 Fertile Ground Festival (FG18). The 9th annual festival has over 100 “acts of creation” like Bi, a new play from the Milagro Theatre Company featuring Justin Charles, Ajai Terrazas, Kenyon Acton and Sierra Brambila (Photo credit, Russell Young). Members of Portland’s artistic community with perform in 32 venues all over the city for 11 days from January 18th to January 28th. Click here for a link to the schedule and to buy tickets.

Groovin’ Greenhouse 2018 NW Fusion Dance Company (photo credit, Alexander Dones)

Organized by the Portland Area Theatre Alliance, the key producers for the 2018 Festival include: Artists Repertory Theatre with the world premiere of Magellanica, Milagro with the world premiere of Bi-, along with works from regularly producing companies like Echo Theatre Company, Lakewood Theatre and Theatre Vertigo alongside emerging theatre companies, individual playwrights and choreographers. For FG18, Polaris Dance Theatre will again present the “Groovin’ Greenhouse” with a variety of choreographers and dance groups. PDXPlaywrights will present 12 new works events and Artists Rep will present eight lunchtime readings and one 6pm staged reading in partnership with LineStorm Playwrights.

Artists Rep’s Magellanica takes on climate science in epic play set in the South Pole. With a scope in the tradition of Angels in America, this play takes its inspiration from the true story of the discovery of the hole in the ozone layer at the height of the Cold War. Magellanica is a play written by Oregon playwright E.M. Lewis. Runtime is approximately 6 hours; there are three 10-minute intermissions and one 25-minute dinner break.

Here’s a synopsis: “In 1986, scientists and engineers from around the world converge at the South Pole Research Station to figure out, among other things, if there really is a hole in the sky. In the darkest, coldest, most dangerous place on Earth, eight imperfect souls are trapped together. Utterly isolated from the outside world for eight and a half months, this research team must face life or death challenges, their own inner demons and depend upon each other for survival.” (Magellanica Artists Rep image by Jeff Hayes.)

The High Captain, with be presented by the Clinton Street Theater. (Photo credit, JasonDodson)

Uncle Vanya – Scenes from Life in the Country in Four Acts features Ralph Huntley, Courtney Von Drehle, Joellen Sweeney, Prentice Onayemi, Jacob Coleman, Amber Whitehall (Photo credit, Owen Carey)

Velvet Theatre presents, Vertigo (photo credit, ZoeStuckless)

Stranger Than Fiction from the Echo Theater Company featuring Angela Bryant and Kraig Mead (photo credit, Kraig Mead)

From Fertile Ground:

Fertile Ground is an incubator for new work in all forms and stages of creation offering theatre and dance, workshops, staged readings, readings and multidisciplinary events – for 11 days, at all times of the day. Offering an astonishing breadth of creative work are seasoned theatre and dance companies alongside spunky, young art-creators of every ilk. A full list of Fertile Ground 2018 events can be found here.

FG18’s myriad of new works span theatre in long and short form, musical theatre, circus arts, sketch and improvisational comedy, animation, a wide variety of dance disciplines, social action through the arts, as well as the voices of youth, lesser heard voices and shows that are derived from audience participation. In addition to seasoned producers, dozens of emerging young producers, playwrights, choreographers and animators are also choosing to offer their work in this collaborative Portland showcase festival.

“Fertile Ground offers a place where everything that can be created by Portland artists is welcome,” said Nicole Lane, Fertile Ground Festival Director. “The aim of celebrating the creation of new work by Portland artists however they’d like to share it, and a training ground for new producers and producing artists. It is also a chance to inform audiences about the creation process, and to introduce Festival supporters to new artists, companies and a variety of art forms. This uncurated festival is like none other, it offers artists and audiences the opportunity to explore the wilds of art-making in a plethora of genres and at every point in the process.”

Fertile Ground Festival of New Work 2018

Presented by the Portland Area Theatre Alliance

Dates:  January 18-28, 2018

Venue:  Citywide, check website or Festival Guide for locations

Tickets: All ticket information at www.fertilegroundpdx.org

Individual event tickets sold through each producer

All can be accessed through www.fertilegroundpdx.org

Festival Passes:   $50 – all-access event reservations – www.fertilegroundpdx.org

Description:  100+ “acts of creation” by Portland artists in an 11-day Festival. Patrons can purchase individual tickets to each show or buy a $50 all-access Festival Pass.

2018 Festival full event listings and descriptions can be found at www.fertilegroundpdx.org

Festival Guide:   Printed Festival Guides are available in many theatre lobbies including Artists Repertory Theatre, Portland Center Stage, Lakewood Theatre, Bag & Baggage, among others, or digitally at www.fertilegroundpdx.org

à All producer press photos available for download here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/fertilegroundportland/albums/72157661473531698

à Name of show/producer/photo ID/photographer credit in the file name

TICKET & PASS INFORMATION

All festival ticket information can be accessed through: www.fertilegroundpdx.org

à All access Festival Passes are $50 and are available here: http://fertilegroundpdx.org/festival-passes-and-tickets/

à Single tickets for all festival events are purchased directly through the producing companies.

Links here:  https://www.boxofficetickets.com/bot/wa/search?q=fertile+ground

FG18 PROGRAMMING INFORMATION

Full event listings including production descriptions, locations, times and ticket information here:

http://fertilegroundpdx.org/2018-works/

What Makes FERTILE GROUND Unique? Several theatre companies across the nation host “new works festivals” and nearly all of these festivals present “staged readings,” works-in-progress curated by the aesthetic of the producing company’s artistic staff. They are also typically genre-exclusive. In contrast, the Fertile Ground Festival presents a non-curated swath of fully staged world premiere productions in theatre and dance along with workshop and staged reading productions, as well as a large number of multidisciplinary works. This festival is the collaborative endeavor with our local artistic community to represent a broad diversity of creative forms for arts-curious audiences, in a quintessentially Portland manner.

Fertile Ground was launched by the Portland Area Theatre Alliance (the service organization for Portland theatre artists and organizations) in 2009 to provide a platform for Portland theatre companies to showcase their commitment to new work. The Festival has grown to embrace many forms of new works in art allowing arts lovers to discover Portland’s truly fertile ground for creativity, innovation and daring acts of performance. 

The Fertile Ground Festival of New Work is presented by the Portland Area Theatre Alliance and is sponsored by Artslandia and The Oregonian/OregonLive.com.

Top Ten Portland Society Page Stories of 2017

Top Ten Portland Society Page Stories of 2017

Portland, OR. It’s our privilege to be the only nonprofit news resource for local charities and the supporters who love them! Did you miss any stories? Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter by CLICKING HERE! Have a great idea for 2018? Contact Editor & Publisher Elisa Klein, at elisa@societypage.net.

Here’s the list of the top ten stories (in reverse order to build your suspense) on PortlandSocietyPage.com during 2017.

#10. Jesuit High School’s 49th Auction Raises Over $1 Million

Portland, OR. Cultivating Tomorrow was the theme of Jesuit High School’s annual auction. The event on April 29th was held in the school’s Knight Center and drew 650 supporters. Principal Paul Hogan, posed for a photo with action co-chairs Wendy Pernas, Kim Takla and Jesuit President Tom Arndorfer.  JHS cleared the million-dollar mark with $1,020,916 raised in gross revenue. Organizers thanked their Presenting Sponsors – Clearview MRI, Touchmark and Colleen and Werner Nistler. Jesuit’s auction is the school’s largest fundraiser.

Here’s a link to the story for more: https://www.portlandsocietypage.com/2017/06/04/jesuit-high-schools-49th-auction-raises-over-1-million/

#9. National Charity League Honors Class of 2017

Portland, OR. After six years of service to the community, 26 high school seniors from The National Charity League, Inc. Portland Chapter were honored at a special celebration at the Sentinel Hotel on April 30th.  Most of the young women, including Bailey Cook, Shannon Kehoe, Genevieve Klein, and Jennie Menendez, began volunteering with their mothers during seventh grade and in total, the seniors worked 3,700 hours.

Here’s a link to the story for more: https://www.portlandsocietypage.com/2017/05/13/national-charity-league-honors-senior-class-of-2017/

#8. French American International School’s Fête du Vin Celebrates Community

Portland, OR. Fête du Vin on November 4th brought together some of Oregon’s best wineries and restaurants, uniting the diverse and progressive community that surrounds the French American International School. FAIS Parent & Alumni relations Manager, KaDo Gorman posed for a photo with Fete Committee members Raphaelle Robert, Julia Bannon, Michelle Reeves, and Paul Willenberg.

Here’s a link to the story for more: https://www.portlandsocietypage.com/2017/11/25/french-american-international-schools-fete-du-vin-celebrates-community/

#7. Top Ten Portland Society Page Stories of 2016

Portland, OR. This story had the list of the top ten stories on PortlandSocietyPage.com for 2016.

Here’s a link for more: https://www.portlandsocietypage.com/2016/12/31/top-ten-portlandsocietypage-com-stories-of-2016/

#6. Ignite 2017 Black & White Ball Draws 1,000 People

Portland, OR. Ignite 2017, the Black & White Ball, was Oregon’s largest LGBTQ gala and dance party and biggest fundraiser of the year. Nearly 1,000 people attended the November 4th benefit for Basic Right Oregon including Val Solorazano, Shannon Scott and Bill Dickey. More than $320,000 was raised at the Black & White Ball to support policy, advocacy and education work statewide to ensure that LGBTQ Oregonians in every community in Oregon experience equality.

Here’s a link for more: https://www.portlandsocietypage.com/2017/11/11/ignite-2017-black-white-ball-draws-1000-people/

#5. Oregon Food Bank Gala Honors Hunger Heroes & Breaks Fundraising Record

Portland. OR. Oregon Food Bank’s warehouse underwent a glittering transformation for the Oregon Harvest Dinner and by the end of the evening, attendees and sponsors had contributed more than $760,000 to support hunger relief in Oregon and Clark County, Washington. Mary Ellen Hannigan and outgoing Oregon Harvest Dinner event chair Syd Hannigan celebrated the record-breaking success of the gala. 500 guests enjoyed silent and live auctions, blues music by Reggie Houston and a seated dinner at the October 21st benefit.

Here’s a link for more: https://www.portlandsocietypage.com/2017/11/04/oregon-food-bank-gala-honors-hunger-heroes-breaks-fundraising-record/

#4. Portland Art Museum’s 125th Anniversary Gala Sparkles

Portland, OR. More than 700 people attended the Portland Art Museum’s 125th Anniversary Gala and After Party celebration on September 23rd, featuring a performance by the Grammy Award-winning, Portland-raised jazz musician Esperanza Spalding. The event raised more than $750,000 in additional support to help ensure that the innovative exhibitions, education programs, and partnerships that have been the Museum’s hallmarks will continue to thrive. Guests like Anne and Jim Crumpacker enjoyed red carpet treatment and had dinner in the historic galleries designed by Pietro Belluschi.

Here’s a link for more: https://www.portlandsocietypage.com/2017/10/06/portland-art-museums-125th-anniversary-gala-sparkles/

#3. Rock Stars Help Raise $1.4 Million to Benefit Oregon Military Museum

Portland, OR. Gene Simmons joined KISS guitarist and Portland native Tommy Thayer — along with KISS bandmates Paul Stanley and Eric Singer —for a surprise performance at the close of the “All-Star Salute to the Oregon Military” fundraising gala Feb. 18th. The exclusive event raised $1.4 million toward completing the construction of the $20 million Oregon Military Museum named after Tommy’s father, Brigadier General James B. Thayer. Rockers Alice Cooper, Robby Krieger of the Doors, Danny Seraphine from the band Chicago, and Will Lee from The Late Show with David Letterman, also performed.

Here’s a link for more: https://www.portlandsocietypage.com/2017/03/04/big-name-entertainment-stars-help-raise-1-4-million-to-benefit-oregon-military-museum/

#2. Children’s Cancer Association’s Annual Wonderball Raises $1.4 Million

Portland, OR. It was high-fives all around as Children’s Cancer Association (CCA) raised $1.4 million at its 17th annual Wonderball gala on October 7th. Leaders Rosemary Colliver, founder Regina Ellis and Andy Lytle celebrated the donations which will fuel CCA’s mission of prescribing joy to seriously ill children and their families. Organizers welcomed nearly 850 supporters to the Oregon Convention Center for an “Age of Aquarius” themed night they say was inspired by the abundant love and optimism of the Woodstock era.

Here’s a link for more: https://www.portlandsocietypage.com/2017/10/21/childrens-cancer-associations-annual-wonderball-raises-1-4-million/

#1. “Classically American” Oregon Symphony’s Gala Raises Over $1 Million

Portland, OR. The popping of celebratory champagne, the Rex Putnam High School Marching Band, and applause from the nearly 400 attendees provided a fitting end to the Symphony’s annual gala, which marked another first in the organization’s 120-year history – shattering the $1 million gala fundraising mark. Guests of Oregon Symphony’s Gala 2017, “Classically American” arrived to a tented reception in the Park Blocks adjacent to the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. In attendance were State Architect Alice Wiewel, Liz Fuller, President of Gard Communications, Representative Brent Barton, Jordan Schnitzer, OSA President Scott Showalter, Portland State University President Wim Wiewel, and Mayor Ted Wheeler.

Here’s more on the story: https://www.portlandsocietypage.com/2017/04/08/classically-american-oregon-symphonys-gala-raises-over-1-million/

Well, there you have it, the top 10 Portland Society Page stories of the year. Society Page is a free community platform where you can make a difference. If you enjoy reading our positive news about the great things happening in our area, you can help and here’s how:

Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and encourage your friends do the same. Click here.

Share our good news on your social channels.

Send us your story ideas and submit your events for our calendar.

Purchase an advertisement to reach our thousands of philanthropic readers.

We are excited to continue “Building Your Community” in 2018!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Elisa Klein, Editor

Elisa@societypage.net

Albertina Kerr Christmas Ships Soiree Brings Holiday Cheer

Albertina Kerr Christmas Ships Soiree Brings Holiday Cheer

Portland, OR. Listening to a cheerful choir and watching the Christmas ships drift by along the Willamette River were highlights of the Albertina Kerr holiday fundraiser, Christmas Ships Soiree, on December 15th at the Waverley Country Club. The Gladheim family was out in force including: Baraket Galdheim, Karsen Gladheim, Avery Gladheim, Jeffrey Gladheim, Christy Gladheim, and their guests. The purpose of the event was to raise money for Albertina Kerr’s Financial Assistance Fund, which helps families cover what insurance does not cover for mental health services. Albertina Kerr successfully exceeded its $25,000 goal by 12% by raising almost $30,000 thanks to a $10,000 donation from presenting sponsor, Providence Health & Services. There were 200 guests at the family-friendly event.

Mike Butkovic, Jeffery Gladheim, Christy Gladheim, Mary Beth Butkovic, Gavin Brown, Candi Brown

Christine Andersen, Doug Adler, Joshua Goldstein, Anne Adler

Jim Carbeau, Shannon Carbeau, Terry Donahe, Jeanne McKirchy-Spencer, Peter Charlton, Anne Adler

Jennifer Bolin, Kenneth Bolin, and their friends joined Josh Lyons, Janell Billings, Douglas Johnson, Jennifer Posey

Dave Underriner, Jeff Carr (CEO of Albertina Kerr)

Choir

Kristina Davis, Maureen Wheeler, Jennifer Harmon, Denara Goble, Jane Pesznecker

Waverley Country Club

Historic Christmas ships

From Albertina Kerr:

Since 1907, Albertina Kerr has strengthened Oregon families and communities. Today, we provide programs and services to children and adults with developmental disabilities and mental health challenges, empowering them to live richer lives.

We’re building an army of angels – A community that stands together – Where we challenge the norm to create a society that has no barriers. Where people who face developmental disabilities and mental health challenges are included and empowered. Where families are supported and children have reason to smile. Where everyday people reach out to the most vulnerable and give back to their community.

Thank you for joining us.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement:

Albertina Kerr is committed to fostering equity, diversity and inclusion across all settings where people receiving services and their families, employees, board members, foundation trustees, donors, volunteers and vendors feel welcome, respected and that they are treated fairly. 

We believe that embracing equity, diversity and inclusion will bring a broader range of perspectives, experiences and sensitivity, inspiring all members of our community and enriching our capacity to achieve Kerr’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information http://www.albertinakerr.org/

Autism Society of Oregon Ready for 2018

Autism Society of Oregon Ready for 2018

Portland, OR. 2017 was a big year for the Autism Society of Oregon. The holidays brought festive parties and throughout the year thousands of people attended community events like the following: Autism Walks in 5 locations around Oregon and a Bowl-A-Thon in Southern Oregon, plus swimming, bowling, picnics, Free Access Days at the Portland Children’s Museums, Harvest Fests, Easter Egg Hunts and 7 Autism Friendly Santa events throughout Oregon. These events allow individuals on spectrum and their families to participate more fully in their communities and to build family memories.

From Autism Society of Oregon:

Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in Oregon – and the world. If you haven’t already, you will meet someone with autism.

The Autism Society of Oregon is Oregon’s leading organization providing resources, education, advocacy and support for individuals and families living with autism.

We are committed to these core principles:

• We provide services without regard to a person’s age, race, religion, disability, gender, sexual orientation, income level or level of need on the autism spectrum
• We strongly encourage and welcome families, professionals and individuals living with autism with opportunities to participate in our governance, on our committees, and as staff members
• We partner with others to advance the well-being of all living with autism
• We promote individual choice and self-determination of individuals living with autism, aided by parental and guardian advocacy
• We recognize a person living with autism can and should be able to maximize his/her quality of life and oppose any denial of their opportunities
• We oppose any discrimination and harm directed towards individuals living with autism and their families

Coming in 2018:

Autism Walks are scheduled for: 

Sunday, April 22: PORTLAND

Saturday, April 7: Color the Coast in Astoria

Saturday, June 16: Central Oregon in Redmond

Saturday, June 23: Color the Blues in LaGrande

Saturday, July 14: South Coast Walk in Coos Bay

and the Southern Oregon Bowl-A-Thon in Medford on Saturday, July 28

On January 11, we are co-hosting a presentation on Understanding Oregon ABLE Act Accounts. From 6:00-7:30 pm at the ASO office, 5100 SW Macadam Avenue, Suite 400, Portland, OR 97239. For information or to RSVP, call Alisha at the Palladio Group at 503-928-4081 or click here to email.

Thanks to support from RACC (Regional Arts and Culture Council) and City of Portland Special Appropriations Grant, we will continue our Free Expressions Art Workshops for adults on spectrum on the 3rd Sunday of each month, with an art show planned soon.

In March 2018, the “SHUT UP SISTERS” will be presenting in Seaside and in Portland. Come hear sisters Patty and Gina celebrate the humor, joy and triumphs of raising “imperfect kids” in a perfection-obsessed world. Join their Movement of Imperfection! Presented in collaboration with Swindell’s Resource Center.

Workshops on Autism and Puberty (for parents!) are planned in Gresham (Feb. 17), in Coos Bay (March 10), in Florence (March 11), in Redmond, OR (April 27) and in Roseburg (June 23). More dates and locations to be announced. Presenters are ASO Board members Marci Hammel and Lauren Corder.

and much more….

More information on these events will be on our Events Calendar (click here), or contact the ASO office at 503-636-1676 (toll-free: 888-288-4761) or click here to e-mail. 

Thank you for your support of the autism community in 2017!

If you haven’t had a chance to make a year-end tax-deductible donation, there’s still time! Please consider donating to help fund these great programs in 2017

 All of the money we raise stays in Oregon and SW Wash, with over 80% spent   directly on programs.

Click HERE to make an on-line donation, or mail a check to:

ASO, P.O. Box 69635, Portland, OR 97239. 

Federal Tax ID#: 93-0771249

KairosPDX Makes Big Strides in Community

KairosPDX Makes Big Strides in Community

Sponsored: Portland, OR. KairosPDX is an education non-profit whose mission to eliminate the prolific racial achievement and opportunity gaps in our city. The KairosPDX Learning Academy opened in fall 2014 and is located in North Portland in the Humbolt building. Its belief is that the most impactful vision of equity creates a system in which every child develops as fully as possible socially, emotionally, culturally and academically. Every child is viewed as uniquely capable, innately curious and inherently creative and with that they work actively to support their children and families.

KairosPDX is now in its year-end fund drive. Leaders say, “Year-end time prompts a great deal of reflection about our community’s successes, challenges, and goals. We’ve had our share of obstacles along with plenty of triumphs. While the advocacy to stay in our space was a very visible one, we also made steps to improve Early Childhood Learning and Family engagement which are very important components of our vision. As we continue to work toward cultivating our community through the development of young leaders, we want to thank you for standing with us.” CLICK HERE to donate.

In addition to the year-end push for funding, KairosPDX’s annual fundraising event called Spread the Love is set for Tuesday, February, 13th 2018 at Castaway Portland. It is an event celebrating the transformative educational impact of Kairos. With small bites from local celebrity chefs and musical performances by Kairos students, Spread the Love will be an inspiring night showcasing the organization’s work and the creative, curious, compassionate young leaders they serve.

Here’s a video about the program:

The parent of a student explains, “As we look back we know our daughter wouldn’t be the happiest 3rd grader in the world without Kairos. What we have heard from her teachers and principal is that the commitment she has to making the right decisions and the happiness she has in trying again and again is not something you often see in children her age…There were times she was struggling academically and socially, but it was the Kairos LOVE she held onto. She has let out her wings and she is flying.”

 

Local Volunteers Lift Spirits During Holiday Season

Local Volunteers Lift Spirits During Holiday Season

Portland, OR. This holiday season has been a busy one for local nonprofits with thousands of volunteers handing out gifts and making spirits bright for less fortunate members of the community.

Here are some of the heartwarming sights spotted around town:

Oregon food Bank volunteers were busy and Nike was honored as the Corporate Donor of the Month for December.

Portland Police Bureau Sunshine Division distributed nearly 500,000 pounds of food to families, seniors, and veterans in need, the most in its 95-year history.

The Sunshine Division offers free food and clothing assistance for qualifying Portlanders at its on-site food pantry and clothing room and through its food box programs and no-cost food bank.

The Portland Police Bureau Sunshine Division was started by Captain H. A. Circle in 1923. His thought was that no one should ever have to commit a crime to provide food for their family.

Over 100 Portland’5 volunteers donated over 200 stuffed animals. They were donated to Clackamas County Victim Association to be given out all year long.

Youth Villages was supporting kids and families this holiday season.

Volunteers were working overtime to make sure the holidays are special for youth and families from Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland Metropolitan Area

Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland Metropolitan Area had their gifts delivered by Santa.

A sleigh full of surprises was delivered to children at Bridge Meadows this week thanks to Wells Fargo.

Portland Rescue Mission is serving up hundreds of holiday meals.

If you’re interested in volunteering this holiday season, or right on into the new year, there are lots of opportunities. Nonprofits across the Greater Portland area are looking for volunteers like you to brighten the day by lending a hand.

Hands on Greater Portland has lots of great ideas:

► HAVE A FEW HOURS?

Check out our Project Calendar to find a variety of “done-in-a-day” volunteer opportunities.

  • Look for *Hands On* in the title to find projects managed by us. You can sign up in two clicks to join a group of volunteers on a 2-4 hour project, lead by a trained volunteer leader; no experience or ongoing commitment required!

  • Look for “Bulletin Board” listings to find projects managed directly by our many wonderful nonprofit partners. Contact information is provided for you to connect directly with the nonprofit volunteer coordinator.

► DEEPEN YOUR IMPACT…

Search all of our volunteer opportunities to find longer-term or skills-based opportunities with our 300+ non-profit partners. You can hone your search by keyword, zipcode, availability and more! In the search results, look for opportunities with the time listed as “Open” to find opportunities that could use your help for more than a single shift.

CLICK HERE for a link to the Hands on Portland website. Whether you are working, parenting, in school or retired, Hands On Greater Portland offers you a variety of ways to get involved while meeting your schedule and interests. Volunteer for a one-time project. Volunteer for a few weeks. Volunteer after work or on the weekends. Volunteer alone, with family, friends or co-workers.

Wind & Oar Boat School Keeps Kids in School and on Track for Success

Wind & Oar Boat School Keeps Kids in School and on Track for Success

Sponsored: Portland, OR. When Donovan arrived at the Wind & Oar Boat classroom at Merlo Station High School in the fall of 2016, he was under fed, exhausted, and stressed from family care-taking responsibilities. He was carrying a full-time class load, working full-time at night, and trying to stay on track to graduate. He admits, “It was one of the hardest times of my life.”

Realizing that he was on an unsustainable track, he worked with his school counselors to adjust his priorities, allowing him to reduce in-school time, work the full-time job, and get rested. Fortunately, the school permitted him to attend the Wind & Oar “Boat Geometry” class, which meets two and a half hours a day, Monday through Friday. Donovan’s attendance was nearly perfect and as he says, “Being able to come to class every day and work on building something with my hands, and create something really helped me get through it, to make me want to come to school more…”

Wind & Oar Boat School engages students in learning by connecting hands and mind in relevant exercise of academic subjects. Math, science, and engineering are all integrated into crafting a wooden boat.

Finding relevance in math, creating with one’s hands, discovering inner resources like: critical thinking, collaborating, and communicating, are all a result of building a boat in a team setting. This is what Wind & Oar accomplishes with students in 5th grade through high school.

Getting students to actually come to school is a huge hurdle, and one that profoundly affects success in the classroom. It may seem obvious that attendance is critical. What is not so obvious is that absenteeism starts early, as does the track to dropping out. By 5th grade, many students destined to drop out 4 or 5 years later can already be identified. It is essential to engage these students and convince them that they can learn, and that they can become good learners.

Wind & Oar regularly runs a program for 5th graders at a Hillsboro elementary school. Roger Will, the former principal there, related that attendance on Fridays, boat-building day, was 100%. In fact, on a particular Thursday, with a snow day looming for the next day, the 5th graders were begging that school not get cancelled because they would miss a boat-building day.

Wind & Oar successfully engages students in learning not only because the learning activity involves using one’s hands, making the topics relevant, but also because the teacher/student ratio is very low. At the high school level, we often have three instructors in the shop and classroom, and in elementary and middle school, four instructors for a class of 20 plus is common. These low ratios are important because students can connect with an interested adult with nearly individual attention, thereby reducing the tendency to disengage. This benefit, however, comes at a cost.

Staffing multiple, concurrent classes with instructors qualified to ask essential questions, operate from a growth mindset, and build a boat, is a steep hill to climb. Wind & Oar’s success is profound but the training and personality required of each instructor to achieve that success demands that we invest in unique individuals willing to take a risk on a growing nonprofit. We also need to invest in comprehensive professional development. Both require time and money.

With recent investments in Wind & Oar by a generous family foundation, we have significantly grown our infrastructure, thereby positioning ourselves to potentially offer more quality classes to metro area schools, as well as offering classes to the community at large. This growth in physical capacity, however, places immense strain on our human capacity, so if Wind & Oar is to deliver on its potential, and bring high quality, engaging classes to underserved students, we need support from our community.

Here’s how you can help!

Wind & Oar Boat School helps over 300 kids a year like Donovan. The nonprofit is working hard on fundraising as 2017 draws to a close. CLICK HERE for a link to the Wind & Oar Boat School donation page.

About Wind & Oar Boat School: Wind & Oar Boat School is an Oregon nonprofit, 501c3, youth development organization that engages young people and inspires learning through the art, science, and craft of building wooden boats. Our purpose is to promote self-confidence and perseverance in students’ approach to learning while increasing their ability to solve problems and apply conceptual knowledge to unique situations. Building wooden boats is an innovative and unique platform for developing an array of academic, practical, and social skills. Our projects provide space to develop critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and creativity, essential skills for success in school and career. Through the integrated curriculum linking math, science, and design skills to wooden boat construction students gain practical woodworking skills and understand the application and relevance of academic skills. Most importantly, students gain confidence and embrace their own potential to learn, now and into the future.

Children’s Cancer Association Doubles Outreach to Kids and Teens in 2017

Children’s Cancer Association Doubles Outreach to Kids and Teens in 2017

Sponsored: Portland, OR. This year, the Children’s Cancer Association (CCA) was able to serve over 9,000 kids and teens—49% more than last year. The CCA delivers JOY to kids, teens, and their families who are fighting a serious illness. The nonprofit knows that for seriously ill children and their families every moment is precious so it uses music, friendship, play, and resources to create transformative moments of joy. Unlike many organizations dedicated to the worthy goal of someday finding a cure for cancer, CCA is all about creating joy today. CCA is now in the middle of its year-end fundraising drive, CLICK HERE for more information on how to give. 

It was all smiles this week as kids gathered around the tree at the CCA family holiday party.

Founder and Chief Joy Officer, Regina Ellis, is sharing inspiring stories about special kids that CCA has served over the past year. She explains, “One incredible kid we had the privilege to serve in his time of need is six-year-old Otto, who after a nearly two year battle, recently completed treatment for neuroblastoma. Otto, also known as “Otto-bot”, is a huge fan of superheroes, and has displayed many heroic qualities himself. His incredible perseverance and determination throughout his journey with cancer even got him recognized as a 2017 CCA Hero.”

“Otto has had to put up with a lot of terrible things, but he never gives up,” his mom, Emily, said proudly.

Regina Ellis says Otto had a lot of support from his Chemo Pal®, Jerry, along the way. Together they spent lots of time playing video games and building LEGO sets, which allowed his mother, Emily the time and space to speak with doctors without isolating Otto.

Donations help keep the CCA program going strong. Gifts of $50 help Chemo Pals fill their activity bag with fun new toys and supplies, and a gift of $2,500 funds activities for an entire year.

Donations that support essential needs and resources through CCA’s Link Program make it possible to cover the cost of things like the airline tickets Otto and his mom needed to go to San Francisco for specialized treatment.

And when Otto was stuck in the hospital and needed to blow off some steam, CCA’s MyMusicRx® team was there with guitars, keyboards, and drums to jam with him at his bedside. Donors can help provide music as medicine for kids going through treatment with a gift of $250 to purchase instruments the CCA in-hospital music carts that help reduce stress, anxiety, and the perception of pain.

“During our toughest times, CCA was there to bring our family the friendship, music, resources, and JOY we needed most,” explained Otto’s mom, Emily.

All of CCA’s programs are free-of-charge to families thanks to the kindness and the generosity of friends in the community who believe that JOY matters.

This video shows how CCA brings moments of joy to kids.

CCA is in the middle of its year-end fundraising drive, CLICK HERE for more information.

From CCA:

Please CLICK HERE and join us by investing in the healing power of joy today to support deserving kids like Otto and the thousands of other children, teens, and family members who need a dose of JoyRx this holiday season. We believe kids deserve long, wonderful lives. Or, at the very least, short, wonderful lives. We believe cancer sucks. We’ve had it, or loved someone who did. We prescribe moments of joy for kids who are in the fight against all serious illness. We believe joy grows exponentially when it’s used collectively. We are music medicine pioneers. We believe in purple. We know joy comes in all colors, shapes, and sizes – just like the kids we help. We love to laugh. We are not afraid to cry. We spend every dollar wisely. We give hugs freely. We believe in today. We respect our history as a grassroots organization. We embrace our destiny as a global source of JoyRx. We believe these things matter.

Contact info:

Fax: (503) 892-1922
PlayWrite Boosts Empathy & Confidence for Youth at the Edge

PlayWrite Boosts Empathy & Confidence for Youth at the Edge

Sponsored: Portland, OR. PlayWrite is a theatre-based program that builds resilience, creativity and success. Nearly a thousand young people have benefited from the program. During one of the groundbreaking workshops, eight students form an attuned working alliance with eight coaches, engaging in exercises involving movement, sound, scent and memory. Students create a play with unique non-human characters from the authentic emotions of their own life experiences, directing professional actors on the final day. The nonprofit is working hard during its year-end fundraising campaign so it can work with more students, CLICK HERE to learn more. 

High school junior JT explains how PlayWrite has changed his life, “PlayWrite is my favorite program. The workshop provided me with a blank canvas; a chance to step back, to not take myself so seriously, and to be goofy and creative. I think every kid deserves that opportunity.”

Here’s a video to get a feel for what  PlayWrite is all about.

PlayWrite coaches are deep listeners. They ask questions, and wait for answers. As long as it takes. PlayWrite coaches never offer suggestions for words or themes or ways of phrasing ideas.

Creating meaningful characters demands that the writer fully inhabit each character. Placing those characters into true emotional conflict builds awareness and empathy.

PlayWrite creates a safe space for participants to explore themselves in a new way – to build a story that’s never been written before.

Nothing matches the power of face-to-face engagement.

Executive Director, Bruce Livingston, explains how the story of high school student, JT is one of many success stories from the program.

From PlayWrite:

PlayWrite is a safe space in which teens grow—a place to explore and express themselves through creativity—is scarce for many of the youth we meet. More than 75% of PlayWrite participants have been exposed to childhood trauma, abuse, or neglect, and face barriers to success. Our workshop offers a place for “youth at the edge” to process their difficult experiences through creative expression.

Over the course of a 10-day PlayWrite workshop, young writers receive over 27 hours of one-on-one interaction with a highly trained coach. Coaches guide them through exercises involving movement, sound, scent, and memory. In this profound, attuned working relationship, youth are challenged and supported every step of the way. With their coach providing trust and acceptance, they tap into their emotions and creativity. And at the end of the process, they direct professional actors in the world premiere of their unique theatrical works.

For JT, the PlayWrite experience allowed him to find his “true self.” After working with his coach for two weeks, and then seeing his characters come to life onstage, his interactions with others changed:

“I understand the people I encounter a little bit better because I now know we all have unique strengths and weaknesses.”

Empathy, vulnerability, and a freeing sense of play: these are just a few of the skills JT developed through PlayWrite that will serve him in years to come.

Every kid deserves the opportunity to step back. To not take themselves so seriously, and to be goofy and creative. To find their true self.

We’re asking you to help us give more youth a chance. The PlayWrite workshop costs $1,200 per student, which allows us to provide each student like JT the one-on-one coaching they deserve. Will you help us provide this transformative opportunity to as many youth as possible in 2018?

JT’s play is about a young flower who wants to cross a river to find his family, and an old bear who wants to keep his friend safe. It’s about accepting others as they are. And it’s about facing fears. As JT explains:

“The last line of my play is “The rapids never stop.” By that I mean that the struggles in life are never going to stop. But we’ll overcome our challenges; we’ll ride the rapids just like my characters did in my play.”

In the PlayWrite workshop, youth at the edge learn to dive headlong into the rapids, emerging with a work of art that is uniquely their own.

The rapids never stop. We can’t eliminate barriers and obstacles, but with your support, we can give youth at the edge the tools they need to navigate the waters of life. The nonprofit is working hard during its year-end fundraising campaign to help more students, CLICK HERE to learn more.

Protect Your Pet During the Holidays with Tips from DoveLewis

Protect Your Pet During the Holidays with Tips from DoveLewis

Portland, OR. Veterinarians at DoveLewis Animal Emergency & Specialty Hospital are reminding pet owners to keep their animals safe during the holidays. While decorations, special foods and family gatherings make this time of year festive, they also provide potential hazards for the pets in your life. Many common seasonal items can be dangerous for animals. Below some fun holiday pet photos are a list of 12 hazards to avoid so that you won’t have to make a visit to the animal hospital over the holidays.

Pepper is a feline blood donor who recently made her ninth donation.

12 holiday pet hazards to avoid:

Christmas tree water – Some trees are treated with chemicals that can seep into the Christmas tree water. Also, stagnant tree water can build up bacteria over time, which is harmful if ingested.

Cords from holiday lights – Keep wires out of reach or covered to discourage pets from playing with or chewing them. If tampered with, lights can cause electrical burns and potentially lethal electric shock.

Decorative plants – Plants like mistletoe, holly and poinsettias can cause a range of problems if ingested, including vomiting, abdominal pain, cardiovascular problems, loss of appetite and diarrhea. 

Candles – While it’s traditional for menorah candles to remain lit for at least half an hour, leaving your pet alone near an open flame is risky. Kennel your pets during this time or keep a close eye on them. Pets should never be left unsupervised around lit candles.

Turkey bones – These bones can easily splinter into sharp pieces. The splinters can get lodged in a pet’s throat or intestines causing punctures in the intestinal tract and blockages. Secure garbage cans and bags with food scraps. 

Chocolate – DoveLewis sees an increase in animals suffering from chocolate toxicity over the holidays. Keep all food, especially food that contains chocolate, out of reach of animals, and monitor pets during food prep and feasts.

Alcohol – Most alcohol consumption by animals occurs as a result of drinking from unattended glasses, but it can also occur if a pet eats raw bread dough. The yeast in the dough ferments in the stomach and releases alcohol ethanol. Alcohol consumption can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, tremors, coma, central nervous system issues, and even death in pets. 

Tinsel and ribbon – Cats are especially attracted to tinsel and ribbon, which can obstruct the digestive tract and cause severe vomiting and dehydration if ingested. Avoid using tinsel at all if you have a feline friend in the house, and keep ribbon out of reach. 

Ornaments – Any ornament on the bottom of the tree is a tempting toy for your pets. Though not poisonous, many ornaments (especially those made of glass or those with sharp edges) can be dangerous. Hang lightweight glass ornaments near the top of the tree or use shatterproof ornaments only.

Liquid potpourri – Cats are particularly attracted to liquid potpourri. The hot liquid can burn their fur and mouths in addition to causing gastrointestinal problems if ingested. 

House guests – Stress from visiting relatives and friends, as well as an altered schedule, can manifest in a variety of ways, including vomiting and gastrointestinal issues. Create a “safe zone” for your pets where they can retreat until the increased activity of the holidays is over. Also, with people coming in and out of your house, your pet is at risk of escaping and getting lost. Be sure your pet’s microchip is updated just in case. 

New Year’s distractions – Confetti, noisy poppers and fireworks are all potential hazards for pets. Confetti can get lodged in a pet’s intestines if ingested. Noisy poppers can scare pets and might do damage to sensitive ears. And fireworks scare most animals causing them to run if they escape. Keep them secured and safe around midnight.

The cold weather can be a little RUFF. Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia and should be kept inside. Longer-haired and thick-coated dog breeds, such as huskies and other dogs bred for colder climates, are more tolerant of cold weather; but no pet should be left outside for long periods of time in below-freezing weather.

About DoveLewis

DoveLewis Animal Emergency & Specialty Hospital, established in 1973 and based in Portland, Oregon, is the only nonprofit, 24-hour emergency and intensive care unit in the region. DoveLewis also has seven donor-supported community programs that serve animals in need and the animal loving community. With 43 years of service, DoveLewis has treated more than 500,000 animals. For more information, please visit www.dovelewis.org.