Dougy Center’s 2017 Reflection Benefit Raises Over $860,000
Portland, OR. Over 550 community leaders gathered at the Portland Art Museum to support the Dougy Center which has the distinction of being named “The National Center for Grieving Children & Families.” Volunteers with clipboards in hand connected with attendees like Wei-Li Chong, from KinderCare Education and his wife Karen Chong. The 2017 Reflection Benefit & Auction was presented by KinderCare Education.
This year’s gala, on May 12th, raised the most money in Dougy Center history. The night included a silent auction showcasing a gallery of one-of-a-kind art designed by Dougy Center participating children, a performance of “Seasons of Love” by Portland’s Bridging Voices Chorus, and testimonials from Michele, Ryan, Georgia, and JJ Gray who participate in Dougy Center programs. The event, Co-Chaired by Tim and Jennifer O’Brien, raised over $860,000 for programs to support children, teens, young adults, and their families grieving a death or those living with a family member with an advanced serious illness. (Photo credit, Michael Schmitt Photography and Ilona LaRue of Studio Lumiere)
About The Dougy Center
The Dougy Center provides support in a safe place where children, teens, young adults and their families who are grieving a death can share their experiences. Locally, The Dougy Center serves over 500 children and 350 adult family members each month with peer support groups in Portland, Hillsboro and Canby. Through the National Center for Grieving Children & Families, The Dougy Center also provides information and training locally, nationally and internationally to individuals and organizations seeking to assist children in grief. The Dougy Center does not charge for its support services, and relies solely on the generous donations of individuals, corporations and foundations.