Advantis Credit Union Offers $20,000 Grant For Distance Learning Programs

Advantis Credit Union Offers $20,000 Grant For Distance Learning Programs

by | Jan 30, 2021 | Events, Features, News

Portland, OR. Advantis Credit Union is teaming up with Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) to help students with online learning. The $20,000 grant to SEI represents the first of many funded projects that are part of its new Advantis Allies for Good community giving program, an ongoing commitment to allocating one-third of its annual community giving budget to programs supporting underrepresented and marginalized communities. Partnering with SEI to support those who need it most – in this case, disenfranchised students seeking an education and their families – is a part of Advantis’ renewed community giving commitment. Jason Werts, Advantis President and CEO, explains how the credit union is making an effort to lift up, “people of color, LGBTQ+ and other underrepresented communities.”

Like millions of students across the country, many Oregon students are still struggling with distance learning due to problematic and spotty Internet connections at home.

While districts evaluate in-person classroom time, distance learning will continue for most students. Advantis’ $20,000 SEI grant will directly help local economically disadvantaged students who are impacted the most by online access and connectivity issues. It will provide greater bandwidth to increase internet accessibility for 66 households throughout the metro area, making it easier for students to attend and participate in online classes and other learning activities.

“The kindness and generosity of Advantis Credit Union will play a powerful role in connecting disenfranchised students and their families to education,” said Tony Hopson, SEI President, and CEO. “By providing access to the resources of the internet, as well as receiving technical and educational support, families will have new opportunities to grow their skills and successfully increase their access to information.”

“As a co-op, we are committed to our founding principle of ‘people helping people’ and we’re reshaping our community giving to drive positive change,” said Werts. “Our SEI grant to help students and families access critical education programs online is simply the beginning for us as we support addressing the inequality gap among Black, Brown, Indigenous.”

Advantis Aims to Drive Positive Change by Introducing New Giving Program to supporting communities that have faced historical and ongoing exclusion and underrepresentation. Through the financial support of nonprofits dedicated to helping these communities, education and resource initiatives, new products and services, and volunteer service, the program aims to create greater opportunity and representation within marginalized communities. Advantis’ grant to SEI is the first investment that the credit union has made through its Allies for Good program.

About Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI)

Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) is dedicated to guiding underserved youth to realize their full potential. Working with schools, families, and partner community organizations, SEI provides support, guidance, and opportunities to achieve personal and academic success. SEI brings hope to individual young people and enhances the quality of community life. For more information, visit selfenhancement.org.

About Advantis Credit Union

With $1.8 billion in assets, Advantis Credit Union is Oregon’s sixth-largest not-for-profit financial cooperative. Advantis returns earnings to its members in the form of better rates, low fees, and more free services. Advantis is locally owned by over 79,000 members and has nine branches in the Portland metro area. For more information, visit advantiscu.org.

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2021 Sundance Film Festival is in Full-Swing Online

2021 Sundance Film Festival is in Full-Swing Online

by | Jan 30, 2021 | Events, Features, News

Park City, Utah. The Sundance Film Festival looks different this year–it’s virtual. There are 71 Features, 50 shorts, 4 indie series, 14 New Frontier Projects debuting on digital platforms and satellite screens nationwide from January 28-February 3, 2021. One highly anticipated film that has excellent reviews is Coda (pictured above). It was directed by Sian Heder and stars Emilia Jones, Eugenio Derbez, Troy Kotsur and Marlee Matlin. This drama is about a girl who is the only hearing person in her deaf family.

There’s a virtual “Main Street” where you can watch major panel discussions and gatherings at the festival for free. Click here to find out more.

In addition to the online platform, there are in-person experiences in Park City and across the country.

Here’s a video about the first day:

Additionally, festival attendees can gather in virtual waiting rooms, participate in live Q&As, and congregate in new, online environments.

The films were selected from 14,092 submissions including 3,500 feature-length films. Of the feature film submissions, 1,377 were from the U.S. and 2,132 were international.

Above, is a scene from “President” by Camilla Nielsson. (photo credit, Sundance)

“Of course, the pandemic year demanded adaptation,” said Keri Putnam, Sundance Institute’s Executive Director. “On a deeper level, we also recognize the urgency of supporting independent storytellers at a time of great upheaval in the film and media fields. We’re proud this edition of the Festival is fiercely independent and will reach people everywhere, celebrating both the theatrical experience at our Satellite Screens and streaming on our platform.”

“This Festival is a singular response to a singular year – both in design and curation – and we are excited about the new dimensions of possibility it will reveal. But at its core is something that speaks to our most enduring values,” said Tabitha Jackson, Director of the Sundance Film Festival. “For thousands of years humans have gathered to tell stories and make meaning. In this pandemic year, we gather to celebrate a constellation of artists with unique perspectives that express this current moment and who together are saying, ‘We exist. This is who we are. And this is what we see.’”

“The work in this year’s program is groundbreaking, imaginative, and formally daring,” said Kim Yutani, the Festival’s Director of Programming. “With over half the program made by first-time directors, a sense of discovery remains true to us at Sundance. This year’s Festival presents irrefutable evidence that despite the challenges, the independent voice is as strong as ever.”

The full 2021 slate of works, including 71 feature-length films, representing 29 countries and 38 first-time feature filmmakers. 14 films and projects announced today were supported by Sundance Institute in development, through direct granting or residency Labs. 66 of the Festival’s feature films, or 93% of the lineup announced today, will be world premieres.

From The Sundance Institute:

The Sundance Institute is a global nonprofit arts organization established by Robert Redford. Since its founding in 1981, the Institute has provided a nurturing oasis for independent artists to confidently develop their inimitable voices, and speak their truth without compromise—free from commercial pressure. We stand in solidarity with risk-taking creators and the audiences who support them.

We mentor and support a vibrant international community of independent artists across 184 countries, championing the discovery and development of storytellers whose important stories might otherwise go unnoticed.

 

Autism Society of Oregon Helps Families Create Normalcy for Kids

Autism Society of Oregon Helps Families Create Normalcy for Kids

by | Jan 23, 2021 | Events, Features, News

Portland, OR. The Autism Society of Oregon is helping families face pandemic challenges like upheaval in schedules, isolation, and lack of structure. The nonprofit is offering information on Covid-19 resources online:

For a wealth of resources on COVID-19 including 9 tool kits on a variety of topics and a dozen social stories, see the Autism Society of America website at LINK. There is a new social story specifically on getting the COVID-19 vaccine that can be downloaded and Recursos Del Gobierno en Español.
For resources in Oregon and SW Washington, including a list of support and social groups meeting virtually, Calendar of Events, Resource Directory, and videos about autism, see the Autism Society of Oregon website at LINK. 

Support is important, according to University of Michigan researchers. For children with an autism spectrum disorder, who thrive on routines and predictability, the everyday disruptions and uncertainty from the pandemic may be especially stressful. “Families who have a child with autism are facing extraordinary challenges,” says Sarah Mohiuddin, M.D., a child and adolescent psychiatrist at Michigan Medicine C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. “People with autism feel more comfortable with routines, which can make any change a stressful event.”Here are some strategies:

1. Talk about COVID – but turn off the news

Even if a child hasn’t asked about it or is unable to, they likely have questions about coronavirus and have probably heard conversations around them. Mohiuddin recommends using social stories to explain COVID-19. This can be done using your own drawings or through videos and graphics available online through resources like Autism Speaks.

Parents should provide opportunities for asking questions and use visual supports to help explain the situation and to reinforce key messages like proper handwashing techniques, at the child’s developmental level.

2. Re-create structure – and use visuals

Children with ASD seek familiarity so she recommends creating a daily schedule that loosely mirrors their regular school day with built-in breaks for snacks, lunch, and physical activity. But instead of making a new schedule on your own, work with children to create it. For example, ask them “do you want to have outside time before or after lunch?” or “do you want to play with Legos or playdough for creative time?”

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

3. Seek social outlets

Children with ASD may have difficulties with social communication and interaction. But that doesn’t mean they’re not troubled by the loss of social outlets like school and activities. Face-to-face interactions also provide them with opportunities to practice and develop social skills. “A lot of children with autism enjoy and seek out social interactions,” Mohiuddin says. Mohiuddin encourages parents to look for ways to virtually connect children and teens with relatives, classmates, and friends through virtual platforms.

4. Make screen time intentional

Experts recognize that typical screen time rules may have relaxed a bit at a time when many kids rely on devices for remote learning. But for some children, especially those who may have both autism and ADHD or sensory issues, too much screen time can also exacerbate issues like hyperactivity, trouble with sleep, and irritability.“For kids with autism, electronics can be a positive tool to connect and engage with others,” Mohiuddin says. “But there’s also the risk that too much screen time may lead to an increase in challenging behaviors. The key is to be intentional about how and when children are using devices.”

Parents, who may be working from home and are also on screens, should try to carve out times in the day, even if short, to have one-on-one, screen-free time with children.

This could be 15 minutes spent playing a game, talking over a meal or interacting using toys that promote development.

5. Optimize treatment opportunities

Many typical interventions or medical appointments may not be available in the same format because of stay-at-home orders.  However, a number of providers, including medical professionals, speech pathologists, and behavior therapists have transitioned to providing e-services or video visits. Speak with your providers to see what you may be eligible for.“Explore any opportunities that will help maintain the skills that your child has gained through interventions and treatments,” Mohiuddin says. “Don’t lose contact with your providers. It’s important to stay connected whether or not things are going well.”

6. Don’t forget self-care

“Trying to juggle the needs of a child with autism as well as all of the other demands of managing a household, work, and other family members in the home can be challenging for caregivers,” Mohiuddin says. She recommends planning time to engage in activities that will help replenish your energy and motivation such as talking to friends, engaging in a favorite activity, or getting exercise. Also, remember to maintain sleep hygiene and proper nutrition. Caregivers should also do what they can to stay connected with their own support networks, whether that’s providers or autism parent and caregiver networks.

From The Autism Society of Oregon:

ASO’s Autism Walk in Portland will be at Oaks Park once again and we hope to hold it in the late summer or early fall of 2021. Exact date to be determined.
ASO’s “Color the Blues for Autism” is tentatively scheduled for Sat, Sept 11, 2021 at LaGrande’s Riverside Park – with a Superheroes theme!
ASO’s “Color the Coast for Autism” is scheduled for Sat, Sept 25 at the KOA Resort at Astoria/Warrenton/Seaside. 

The Autism Society of Oregon is Oregon’s leading organization providing resources, education, advocacy on policy matters, 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

Boys & Girls Aid Offers Online Foster Care Information Sessions

Boys & Girls Aid Offers Online Foster Care Information Sessions

by | Jan 15, 2021 | Events, Features, News | 1 comment

Portland, OR. Each day, more than 8,000 children are in Oregon’s foster care system. They need stable, supportive, and loving foster parents. Boys & Girls Aid is offering online foster care information sessions this winter. There’s a lot to learn according to educators, “Our info sessions are low-key opportunities for you to gather information about foster parenting, and to meet our amazing Outreach Coordinator.

Here’s a video about the experience of being a foster parent:

According to Boys & Girls Aid, “The need for foster parents is still urgent. To join our meeting from the comfort of your own home, please register below to an online info session, our Outreach Coordinator will contact you and provide you with a link to join our free online info session.”

In 1885, Boys & Girls Aid was founded in response to a crisis. Children were being abandoned on the streets of Portland with nowhere to go. The agency created a home for these children to go to and connect in the community to find families for them.  

You may register online here: https://www.boysandgirlsaid.org/fostercare.

You can also contact Outreach Coordinator Katie Matten, email [email protected] or call 971.320.9840.

Here are the upcoming dates:

Learn about fostering with Boys & Girls Aid
Thursday, January 28th 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Online info session

Learn about fostering with Boys & Girls Aid
Wednesday, February 3rd 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Online info session

Learn about fostering with Boys & Girls Aid
Thursday, February 18th 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Online info session

From Boys & Girls Aid:

This is Boys & Girls Aid’s solution. Children in foster care need families who know their history and are invested in their future. The cycle of foster care is a brutal one that ends with children struggling as adults. To avoid this, we need to ensure their future safety and resolve their past traumas by connecting them with a forever family.

Our journey to end the cycle of foster care is not one we want to go at alone. Join us in building a better future for children in Oregon.

Over 135 years later and Oregon is facing a new crisis.

More than 8,000 children are living in Oregon’s foster care system. This morning, these children woke up in a bed that is not theirs, they are living without their parents, their siblings, their family pet, their teachers, and friends. They are living in limbo, unsure about their future.

Portland’s Habitat for Humanity Grows Stronger by Consolidating

Portland’s Habitat for Humanity Grows Stronger by Consolidating

by | Jan 15, 2021 | Events, Features, News

Portland, OR. Portland/Metro East and Willamette West Habitat affiliates have joined forces and become Habitat for Humanity Portland Region. Leaders say now they can serve more people like Sandra (pictured above in the center with her family). “As I built my house for my own children, the feeling is hard to describe,” Sandra explained. “It’s kind of like standing on top of the roof saying, ‘Oh my God, this is mine, I did this.” 

With the expansion, the nonprofit’s leaders say they will be able to tackle the shortage of affordable homeownership with even more efficiency.

“As each organization has grown, it has become increasingly clear that we can have a greater impact in our region as a single organization that fully integrates our programs and staff,” states CEO Steve Messinetti.

The new Habitat for Humanity Portland Region has four active build sites. Habitat for Humanity provides homeownership opportunities to families earning as little as $30,000 a year.

The organization is offering an overview of each of the new projects:

Simpson 

At Simpson, we are building a 10-home community in the heart of the Cully neighborhood. Located on the 6300 block of Killingsworth Street, this community will be home to a diverse set of homebuyers. Of the 10 homes, there will be two-, three-, and four-bedroom options along with one parking space per unit and will feature electric-powered appliances, fenced backyards, and Earth Advantage certification. Currently, three of the four duplexes and triplexes have been framed. The first unit’s mechanical, electrical, and plumbing installation has been completed with the next units’ rough-installs occurring in January and February.   

Kenton  

In Kenton, Habitat is building a 30-home community consisting of two structures reaching three stories high. These 30 sustainable homes are located at the intersection of N. Interstate Avenue and N. Kilpatrick Street in the Kenton neighborhood. Many of the homes will be sold to homebuyers who have generational ties to the area, as part of the City’s North/Northeast Preference Policy—a tool that helps address the harmful impacts of marginalization and displacement. 

So far, 12 homes are in the finishing stage, which will continue into January. Home interior finishes are being installed, including: lighting, appliances, flooring, and painting. Final exterior finishes, such as a ramp for accessibility, corridor deck waterproof coating, mailboxes, bicycle racks, and address numbers are also being installed. Once our crews do a final deep cleaning of each unit, we’ll welcome homeowners in early 2021! Then, we’ll move onto building 18 more homes. Right now, we’re working with sub-contractors to help lay the foundation. We will begin framing in early 2021.  

Cherry Blossom  

Located in the Mill Park neighborhood in SE Portland, Habitat’s newest community will consist of 31 homes. This community will feature a green space, playground, one garage for each unit, and the homes will vary in size from two- to five-bedrooms. Right now, we’re installing the retaining walls to secure the homes on the property’s slope. The stormwater, sewer, and water service pipes installation is complete. Soon, we will lay foundations and framing for each home.  

Denney Gardens  

Denney Gardens is located in SW Beaverton and will be a 16-home community. Currently, the project is about half-way completed. Eight homebuyers and their families have already purchased and are now living in their homes. The remaining eight units consist of two triplexes and a duplex. Right now, one building is nearly through electrical and plumbing installation and will have insulation and drywall installed at the end of January. On the other two homes, we are excavating the final portion of land and pouring concrete foundations, which include: home slabs, garages, and sidewalks. This process is scheduled to be completed by the end of January, soon followed by framing. 

Olin 

We are excited to announce that Olin Townhomes in the Portsmouth Neighborhood is nearly complete! We are so grateful for all of the support we have received to get these N/NE Preference Policy homes built. Congratulations to Habitat’s newest homeowners!  

We are so grateful for the many donors, volunteers, and homebuyers who made these homes a reality! Though it isn’t possible right now, we cannot wait to welcome back Habitat’s many construction-site volunteers.  

This year, 2021, is the 40th anniversary of Habitat for Humanity working in the Portland region. Habitat Portland/Metro East and Willamette West Habitat have long, successful track records. Since its founding in 1981, Habitat Portland/Metro East has partnered with more than 1,700 people, and Willamette West Habitat nearly 700 people, to purchase affordable homes and receive critical home repairs.

More info at https://habitatportlandmetro.org/