Portland, OR. Founded in 1979, the adidas Shamrock Run Portland is one of the largest running and walking event in Oregon and is the third largest running event in the western United States. On March 18th, an estimated 30,000 participants will celebrate the 40th edition of the event at Waterfront Park.
Route maps are available at the Shamrock Run website, but expect closures through noon on Naito Parkway, Southwest Barbur Boulevard, and on sections of Capitol Highway and Terwilliger Boulevard. All downtown bridges will remain open in both directions throughout the event. But the ramp from the west end of the Ross Island Bridge to Southwest Barbur Boulevard will be closed from 6 a.m.-1 p.m.
During the past 22 years, Shamrock Run Portland has made charitable gifts totaling more than $1.3 million. Doernbecher Children’s Hospital Foundation has been the principal beneficiary of the Shamrock Run for the past 21 years. Shamrock has donated more than $550,000 to Doernbecher during this time. The Foundation provides power, potential and promise for one of America’s leading pediatric health centers: Doernbecher Children’s Hospital at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) in Portland.
The St. Patrick’s Day themed Irish runs feature: 5k, 8k, 15k and half marathon running events, a 4-mile Shamrock Stride walk, and a 1k Leprechaun Lap for kids. Set on Portland’s downtown waterfront, the event brings live main stage music, a beer garden, hot soup, and a myriad of vendors.
There’s complimentary beer for finishers 21 and older. Widmer Brothers Brewing beer garden will feature: Russell Street IPA, Steel Bridge Porter, and Hefe.
The adidas Shamrock Run is sponsored by adidas, Widmer Brothers Brewing, Moda Health, Bob’s Red Mill, GEICO, nuun hydration, iHeart radio and KGW Newschannel 8. The primary beneficiary of the event is Doernbecher Children’s Hospital Foundation, which has been affiliated with Shamrock for the past 21 years.
Here’s a video from last years Shamrock Run:
Shamrock Weekend kicks-off with the adidas Shamrock Run Fitness Fair. This two-day event at the Oregon Convention Center on March 16th and 17th is in conjunction with Shamrock participant bib number and T-shirt pickup. The Fitness Fair features more than 80 running and fitness exhibitors, celebrities and mascots, contests and give-aways and a Leprechaun Lane area for kids. More than 25,000 people attend the Shamrock Fitness Fair, presented by Moda Health.
Portland, OR. More than 825 guests gathered on March 3rd at the Oregon Convention Center for the 34th annual Classic Wines Auction, raising nearly $3 million for five local nonprofits. Guests bid on distinctive auction items while enjoying gourmet cuisine presented by top local chefs and, of course, the gala’s signature fine wines. Proceeds support children and families in our community served by the beneficiaries, including: Metropolitan Family Service, YWCA Clark County, Friends of the Children, New Avenues for Youth and Unity Center for Behavioral Health. Classic Wines Auction events have raised more than $43 million since 1982. (Photo credit, John Valls Photography)
Event chairs and Honorary Wine Ambassadors: Peter Andrews (chair), Gilles de Larouziere (Maisons & Domaines Henriot), Jill Nelson (chair), Shari Staglin (Staglin Family Vineyard), Mike Etzel (Beaux Freres Winery), Garen Staglin (Staglin Family Vineyard), Tara Kinateder (chair) and Richard Moreau (Maisons & Domaines Henriot).
Danielle Lee served guests from a “champagne skirt.”
Cyndi Challacombe, representing Cristal Champagne, pours for guest Wes Mallard.
Leslie Durst celebrates her winning bid.
Michelle and Jim Fitzhenry show their support.
Participants from ‘Friends of the Children’ share their stories on stage.
Brian Garish bids big.
Martin Green bids high in the live auction.
Guests enjoy the party.
Jim Mark, CEO of Melvin Mark Companies, First Growth Sponsor of the 2018 Classic Wines Auction
Mark and Tricia Cooper make their move in the live auction.
Master of Ceremonies Stephanie Stricklen welcomes guests with the help of the Starella Sisters.
Chef Allan Wambaa prepared a gourmet five-course meal, paired with wine from the Wine Ambassadors.
Bubbly was provided by Nicolas Feuillatte Champagne.
Guests peruse the wine section of the silent auction.
Portland’s Starella Sisters welcome guests to the party
Taft Stricklin earns a moment in the spotlight.
Jason Zidell gets ready to bid
Matt Felton raises his paddle to support local nonprofits.
Guests danced to Hit Explosion at the NIGHTCAP after party.
From Classic Wines:
OUR 2018 NONPROFIT PARTNERS:
Working with multiple nonprofit partners to spread the wealth and maximize our impact in the community.
The Classic Wines Auction supports the good work of Oregon and Southwest Washington organizations by providing funds to pre-selected nonprofit partners benefiting children and families. This year, we are honored to partner with Metropolitan Family Service (MFS), New Avenues for Youth, Friends of the Children – Portland, YWCA Clark County and Unity Center for Behavioral Health. Proceeds from the 2017/2018 Classic Wines Auction series of events will benefit these five organizations.
Interested in becoming a Classic Wines Auction nonprofit partner? Learn more here.
METROPOLITAN FAMILY SERVICE (MFS) Portland, Oregon Nonprofit Partner Since 1982
Metropolitan Family Service (MFS) helps people move beyond the limitations of poverty, inequity and social isolation.
With a focus on prevention, MFS delivers proven programs and innovative solutions to help more than 30,000 people succeed at home, in school and in the greater Portland and SW Washington area each year. MFS is reaching out across the lifespan, creating opportunities that enable people of all ages and abilities to live with dignity and realize success.
New Avenues for Youth Portland, Oregon – Nonprofit Partner Since 2005
New Avenues for Youth works in partnership with the community to prevent youth homelessness and provide homeless and at-risk young people the resources and skills needed to lead healthy, productive lives.
Since 1997, New Avenues for Youth has offered programs and services that empower homeless youth to exit street life. With an increasing focus on homelessness prevention, New Avenues is building brighter futures for Portland’s most vulnerable youth and moving closer to its vision of a community in which all young people have a safe place to call home.
FRIENDS OF THE CHILDREN – PORTLAND, Portland, Oregon – Nonprofit Partner Since 2006
Friends of the Children breaks the cycle of generational poverty by giving children facing the highest-risks the ability to create a new story.
Children born into generational poverty believe they have no future, no potential, and their highest hope is merely to survive. These children are at high risk for teen parenting, incarceration, high dropout rates, and gang violence. Friends of the Children helps the highest-risk children dramatically change their story by providing each child with a salaried, professional mentor, or a Friend, from kindergarten through graduation. 12 ½ years. No matter what.
YWCA CLARK COUNTY Vancouver, Washington – Nonprofit Partner Since 2008
YWCA Clark County is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.
YWCA programs provide tools and support to heal, build self-esteem, foster positive life choices, and change lives. YWCA celebrates diversity, respects differences, and recognizes the dignity of each individual. Working as a team to achieve a shared vision, YWCA Clark County is a leader of high quality, innovative services offered in a caring and compassionate environment.
UNITY CENTER FOR BEHAVIORAL HEALTH Portland, Oregon – Nonprofit Partner Since 2016
The right care at the right time.
The Unity Center for Behavioral Health is a 24-hour behavioral and mental health services center providing immediate psychiatric care and a path to recovery for people experiencing a mental health crisis.
The Classic Wines Auction Non Profit Partner Selection Process:
The Classic Wines Auction, Inc. supports the good work of Oregon and Southwest Washington non‐profit organizations by raising money for nonprofit organizations benefiting children and families. The Classic Wines Auction seeks charitable partners that can effectively contribute to the success of auction events and exceed annual participation goals and expectations. Classic Wines Auction events have raised more than $43 million since 1982, and have benefited nearly one million individuals in the community.
The Classic Wines Auction has very limited opportunities to engage new nonprofit partners each year and does not currently have openings for 2018 events. We encourage local nonprofit organizations interested in discussing their interest for future involvement with the Classic Wines Auction to contact our Executive Director.
The Classic Wines Auction does not require formal applications, and all compatible nonprofit organizations expressing interest will be considered by the Classic Wines Auction Board and Executive Committee. If opportunities are available, the Executive Committee will select organizations with the following characteristics for further consideration: mission compatibility (must benefit children and families in the Portland or Southwest Washington communities), effective organizational management, sound financial practices, Board‐led fundraising, sustainability, and a solid volunteer network. In order to become involved, interested organizations must contact the Classic Wines Auction before April 1st to discuss potential participation in the next calendar year’s events.
Portland, OR. The American Heart Association celebrated its 22nd annual Heart Ball on February 24th at The Sentinel Hotel in downtown Portland. The event supporting local and regional advocacy, research, education and prevention efforts raised more than $802,000 in the fight against heart disease and stroke. (Photo credit, PortlandEventPhotography.com)
The leadership team for the event included, Dan Holmes, General Manager, Siemens; Nima Darabi, Vice President, Hoffman Construction; Jordan Bader, President, Acme Construction Supply & Chairman, 2018 Heart Ball; Jordan Pape, CEO, The Pape Group; Bart Dickson, President, OEG, Chairman-elect, 2019 Heart Ball; Brant Hunsaker, Vice President, Wells Fargo; and Jade Thelin, Financial Services Professional, New York Life.
The evening was led by 2018 Heart Ball chairman Jordan Bader, President & CEO, Acme Construction with event emcee Nora Hart from FOX 12 Oregon. Kara Markovich, whose daughter Ulla was born with a congenital heart defect, shared her passionate and inspirational story showcasing the impact of funds raised to support families.
Mom Kara Markovich with daughter Ulla and husband Greg.
Next year, the 2019 Heart Ball will be led by chairman Bart Dickson, President, OEG and will be held on February 23, 2019. Details at PDXHeartBall.heart.org or contact [email protected].
From the American Heart Association:
The American Heart Association is working with citizens and leaders, collaborating with neighbors and supporters. We are unraveling complex health issues in our community with a powerful combination of groundbreaking research and community leadership. These critical changes improve Oregon & SW Washington for all – moving us closer to a community, and ultimately, a world free of heart disease and stroke.
What are we doing to improve Oregon & SW Washington? Click here to find out!
Portland, OR. City Lights was the theme for the Riverdale School District Auction at the Leftbank Annex. Benefit Chair, Kristen Best and committee member, Allison Williams, helped coordinated the volunteers, donors, student artists, sponsors, attendees, and entertainersat February 24th event. The auction raised funds for Riverdale PTC programs including $50,000 during a paddle raise for District-wide technology and emergency preparedness/safety initiatives.
Riverdale supporters give a big pat on the back to Auctioneer Matthew DiLoreto.
Riverdale teachers enjoying a night out.
220 attendees were enjoying food by Chefstable Catering, wine and beer were donated by A to Z Wineworks, 10 Barrel Brewing and Taft & Mina Stricklin.
Student artwork was popular at the event.
Silent auction items, including student artwork and “Chance Balloons” generated about $22,000 in auction revenue.
Auction team members credited with making the evening run smoothly included:
DJ Max Barenberg of Blackboard Music
Auctioneer Matthew DiLoreto
Photographer Brian Crippe
Catering by Chefstable
Flowers by Gavin Younnie, Outdoor Scenery Design
From the Riverdale School District:
The Riverdale School District is an independent public school district. It was founded in 1888 and has always enjoyed widespread community interest, involvement and support. Today, Riverdale Grade School (PreK-8) and Riverdale High School (9-12) serve more than 600 families living in a residential, wooded area called Dunthorpe, located seven miles south of downtown Portland, Oregon, and adjacent to the city of Lake Oswego. View our district boundaries.
Riverdale School District is committed to providing an exceptional college-preparatory education for all students that is personalized, learner-centered and academically rigorous. Our simple but powerful goal is to produce students who know how to use their minds well. The curriculum in each grade level marries core academic disciplines with art, music and experiential learning. Students are required to demonstrate their deep understanding of fundamental subject matter through classroom work, including individual and group projects.
Plus, learning at Riverdale isn’t confined to the classroom. Students are encouraged to spread their wings and expand their minds through field studies. Starting with day trips in lower grades, overnight trips beginning in 4th grade, and week-long field studies in middle school and high school, these excursions provide the opportunity to use classroom knowledge in real-world, experiential settings.
Portland, OR. With global activism for women’s equality fueled by movements like #MeToo and #TimesUp there was worldwide momentum for this year’s International Women’s Day. In England, Prince Harry’s fiancée Meghan Markle urged schoolgirls to break down gender stereotypes by pursuing careers in science, math and engineering. The World Economic Forum’s 2017 Global Gender Gap Report prediction is that gender parity is over 200 years away, therefore this year’s theme for International Women’s Day was Press for Progress and organizers used #PressforProgress on social media.
International Women’s Day is celebrated each March 8th and draws attention to the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.
Several hundred Portlanders celebrated International Women’s Day by marching downtown and gathering in Pioneer Courthouse Square. The march, designed to protest gender inequality, was organized by the activist group, Don’t Shoot Portland.
The International Women’s Day organization released several videos, like the one below, about Iceland’s progressive traditions.
Time Magazine celebrated women who stepped forward as #SilenceBreakers. They were TIME’s Person of the Year 2017.
Locally, five women took to the stage to tell their stories of persistence at an event at called, Our Bold Voices Presents: NEVERTHELESS SHE PERSISTED.
The local event was also a special fundraiser for the Family Preservation Project.
Here’s more information on the speakers highlighted at the Portland International Women’s Day event:
Alicia Heddon
Alicia is a Native Oregonian and a mother of 2 young boys. She enjoys spending time outdoors with family and staying active with CrossFit and running. Alicia is an avid traveler and has been traveling with her boys before they could walk.
Cosette “Coco” Leary
Cosette “CoCo” Leary has overcome a childhood of poverty and abuse, raised four children through hard work and painful decisions, and has gone from surviving off of welfare benefits to earning her a degree with honors while serving as a staff member in both a Senatorial and Congressional office.
Denise Peña
Denise was born in Brasil but grew up here in the United States. She’s the mother of two and works advocating on behalf of victims. Her hobbies include traveling, fitness and you can find her hiking with cans of wine in her spare time.
Stacey Rice
Stacey Rice is a speaker, educator and consultant who found her way to Portland from the North Carolina mountains a little over six years ago. She is a leader on transgender issues and loves sharing the difficult and joyous journey of being a transgender person. Stacey was recognized in 2016 as a Queer Hero NW by the Gay and Lesbian Archives of the Pacific NW and is the former Executive Co-Director of the Q Center.
Ellen Wolfson
Ellen Wolfson is a social worker, community builder, musician and storyteller. She plays in a popular Portland women’s marimba band, Chicamarimba. She, her wife, and her golden retriever live outside of Portland, Oregon on 15 acres where she helped raised four children. She is best known for her ability to draw people together and build safety nets through community.
About the the Family Preservation Project and Vera’s Purse:
Named in honor of former mayor, Vera Katz, Vera’s Purse was created by a group of women who want to help low-income, older women to escape and avoid homelessness.
This fund may be used by Friendly House Senior Program and SAGE Metro Portland clients for short-term emergency rental assistance, application fees, and other eviction prevention and homeless intervention supports. Vera’s Purse provides Friendly House staff with yet another tool to help the vulnerable among us to live safely, with dignity and security. All donations to Vera’s Purse go directly to client assistance.
To make a contribution online: click here To make a contribution by mail, make checks payable to Friendly House with Vera’s Purse in the memo field. Mail to:
Portland, OR. 275 attendees came to the Mittleman Jewish Community Center (MJCC) on March 4th for the Friends of the Center Brunch. The event raised nearly $100,000. The Brunch featured special guest speaker, Susan Stamberg, the nationally renowned broadcast journalist and Special Correspondent for NPR. She posed for a photo with MJCC Executive Director, Steve Albert and Sarah Glass, the event emcee, to Stamberg’s left.
Susan Stamberg is the first woman to anchor a national nightly news program, has won every major award in broadcasting, and has been inducted into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame and the Radio Hall of Fame.
Also at the brunch, MJCC inducted Tom Goldman, NPR’s Sports Correspondent and Aidan Schneider, the most accurate kicker in the history of Oregon football into the Oregon Jewish Sports Hall of Fame and honored two students: Laz Glickman and Layton Rosenfeld with the Harry Glickman Scholar Athlete Award.
2018 Harry Glickman Scholar Athlete Award Winners: Layton Rosenfeld and Laz Glickman.
Founded in 1914, the Mittleman Jewish Community Center began its life as the B’nai B’rith Building on SW 13th Avenue and Mill Street, quickly becoming the hub of Jewish living for Portland’s growing Jewish population. From its beginning, the Center has always served all families without regard to religion, background or ability to pay.
For many local families, the JCC has been a tradition for generations. Many recall learning to swim from the legendary Mickey Hirschberg (who taught swim lessons for 49 years), or playing basketball with Harry “Polly” Policar (who spent 45 years at the Center). More than one family can trace their roots to the Center since many married couples tell stories of meeting at the Center.
In 1971, the Center moved to its current location on SW Capitol Highway and has expanded immensely over the years. During this period, before they had their own facility, the Portland Trailblazers held their practices in the MJCC gymnasium. The building’s name was changed to the Mittleman Jewish Community Center in 1976 to honor Helen Rena Mittleman following a significant donation from member Harry Mittleman. In 1987 and in 1996, wings were added to accommodate Portland Jewish Academy. In 2003, the Sportsplex was created for indoor soccer and gymnastics.
In 2004, the Center faced a challenging period. Due to the commitment of Jordan Schnitzer and the emergency board he led, the MJCC embarked on a major capital campaign to renovate the building and thrive in a new era. The MJCC’s subsequent capital campaign—Roots & Rafters—has enabled the Center to make much-needed upgrades to the aging building, while providing an endowment to address future capital needs.
Thanks to these major facility improvements, the MJCC is now a thriving community center, with close to 1,800 member units, representing more than 3,750 individuals. Several monumental events and activities take place at the J including Israeli Independence Day celebrations, Purim carnivals, Jewish Community Orchestra concerts, bar and bat mitzvahs, weddings, quinceañeras and more. The Center welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds for cultural events, sports classes and leagues, a state-of-the-art fitness facility, afterschool activities for kids and drop-in childcare. Over 1,000 people come through the doors daily.
Summer is a particularly busy time on campus when MJCC summer day camp—one of the oldest camping traditions in Portland—is in session, offering full-day coverage to working families with a variety of options including arts and crafts, swimming, sports, theater, cooking, and more. Since 1947, kids love their summers at the J and return year after year.
For over a century, the MJCC has served as the living room for the Jewish community as well as Southwest Portland. With your help, the MJCC will continue to meet the needs of our community for generations to come.
Portland, OR. This year’s Oregon Ballet Theatre gala was a tie-in with OBT’s current production. Patrons flocked to the Alice (in Wonder) Ball which featured a Red Queen’s after party. At the event, OBT Dancer Alexa Domenden, Jordan Schnitzer, and OBT Soloist Eva Burton took time to address hundreds of supporters. The benefit at the Portland Art Museum was on February 3rd.
An OBT school student entertains supporters.
Jimmy Crumpacker, Courtney Singer and Rob Goodman
The many guests included Howard Hedinger and to his left Blake and Mark Bruun.
Pink Martini’s China Forbes serenades the crowd.
Denise Stewart, OBT Artist Director Kevin Irving, Steven Stapp
Oregon Ballet Theatre is staging the west coast premiere of a new full-length ballet: Alice (in wonderland). Created in 2012 by Septime Webre with an original score by American composer and violinist Mathew Pierce, The Washington Post called it a “giddy parade, a pop-art dream, a feat of fevered imagination.” The mad adventure is filled to the brim with the delightful characters found in Lewis Carroll’s classics Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass, uniquely brought to life with surreal sets, zany costumes, puppetry, and powerfully expressive dance. Alice (in wonderland) is at the Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay St., obt.org. 7:30 pm Thursday-Saturday, 2 pm Saturday, noon Sunday, though March 4.
Here are some photos from the production:
Alice (in wonderland) is at the Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay St., obt.org. 7:30 pm Thursday-Saturday, 2 pm Saturday, noon Sunday, though March 4.
From Oregon Ballet Theatre:
Mission Statement
Oregon Ballet Theatre is committed to sharing our passion for the expressive power of ballet, inspiring an enduring appreciation of dance, and connecting in meaningful ways to our community through excellence in performance, training and educational programs.
About OBT
OBT is the largest professional ballet company in Oregon, employing nearly 200 people and attracting artists from around the globe with our reputation for excellence. The company is rooted in the traditions of classical ballet, with a repertoire that ranges from the great classics to premieres from some of the most exciting choreographic voices in the field today. Our mission is dedicated to the vitality of, and access to, world-class ballet performance and training in our region.
Oregon Ballet Theatre seeks to inspire beauty and excellence in the hearts and minds of Oregonians through the creation and preservation of the highest quality classical and contemporary ballet performances. In addition to our 4-show main stage season, we train dancers from 4 years old to 80 years old through the professional and recreational classes at the School of Oregon Ballet Theatre. Many of our students go on to successful professional careers at companies including the Joffrey, the Dutch National Ballet, and within our own organization.
Portland, OR. Empowering families to find health, healing, happiness, and wholeness was the theme of the Black Parent Initiative first ever ‘Circle of Hope’ Dinner. Nichole & Ezell Watson attended the benefit on February 22nd at Hilton Portland Downtown. The heart-warming display of support for Black parents had a live auction and exciting program to celebrate the work and progress of black families.
First Circle of Hope dinner and live auction, contribution’s went directly to support the critical work of three programs: Parent University, Together We Can (TWC), and Black Family Resource Center. All programs are built upon three core values: culturally specific programming, empowerment, and family health and well-being. (Photo credit, Naim Hasan)
Valarie Pearce
Wienta Mebrahtu, Kimberly Porter
Chuck Smith
Kelly Russell, Chabre Vickers
Parent University, including the annual Parent Symposium, provides classes and community experiences for families to strengthen home-based literacy support, culturally specific parent skill development, and parent advocacy on behalf of their children. TWC provides relationship-based intensive home visiting and group services for families with young children focused on safety, stability, parenting, social connections, and personal growth and consciousness. The Black Family Resource Center is a space for parents to find culturally specific information, resources, books, and personal growth opportunities to improve the lives of their families and children.
Thank you to our staff, our volunteers and speakers. Thank you to Chabre Vickers for acting as an incredible emcee and Alonzo Chadwick for sharing your family’s story and your musical talents. Thank you to Asia Greene for ending the night with an incredible powerful spoken word piece.
And of course, thank you to our sponsors, Uber, Coca-Cola, Multnomah County Health Department, Pepsi, Providence Health & Services, The Standard and all of our Table Hosts.
We couldn’t do what we do without you. All of you. Thank you for joining our circle of hope. There is a bright future ahead for BPI, and we’re grateful to have your partnership.
About The Black Parent Initiative:
The Black Parent Initiative (BPI) was established in 2006 to help families achieve financial, educational and spiritual success. BPI was founded and organized on a large body of educational research that demonstrates the importance of parental and family engagement in attaining educational success for children.
The original premise was to engage Black parents and caregivers utilizing historically predominant Black churches as the organizing place, based on the notion that the missing link was Black families’ absence from conversations around education reform. Through community feedback, research, and experience, BPI’s approach has evolved to its current state. BPI is currently the only culturally specific organization in Portland focused solely on supporting low/moderate income parents as a vehicle for enhancing the lives of Black youth. Our programs- Together We Can (TWC), Parent University, and Black Family Resource Center- are based in a large body of research that shows children are more likely to succeed in learning, life, and realizing their dreams when supported by stable, and engaged adults.
Our unique approach is to improve the lives of Portland’s Black and multi-ethnic children by focusing on optimal health, cultural identity development, parent education, and ensuring parents and caregivers have the resources to ensure children succeed. We provide a range of services including parent coaching, parent training, and education. We have a history of working with parents of young children seeking reunification from foster care, preventing their child’s removal from the home, or navigating a moderate crisis in the home. BPI strategically partners with parents to improve parents’ job prospects, secure stable housing, access health care, enhance parenting success, and promote family stability.
OVERVIEW
BPI provides culturally specific programming to transform the lives of families and children. Parents and children who have a strong sense of identity can achieve their dreams. We assist parents and caregivers in strengthening their involvement in the lives of their children so their dreams can be realized.
Culturally Specific Programming
Program designs and services that are explicitly built upon, and connected to the cultural values and traditions of Black and African people. Programming that is designed to preserve and instill historical values that contribute to optimal health and well-being, and reorder, change, or greatly modify behaviors or practices that are harmful/detrimental. The structure and design of the program illuminates and promotes the positive cultural and racial identity of Black people. (adapted from Madeleine Leininger’s definition of Culturally Specific Interventions, 2002)
Parent University
Experience – promoting parent engagement in education and literacy
Educate – home-based support for improved child reading and comprehension
Equip – cultivating parent advocates
Empower – mobilizing parent advocates
Together We Can
Intensive Home Visiting- relationship-based; focus on safety, stability, and personal growth
Home Visiting with Group Services (Ubuntu)- personal growth, consciousness, and connection
Home Visiting with Community Engagement- optimal health promotion and community connection
Black Family Resource Center
Providing information, direct support, materials, educational experiences, and community connections to promote optimal health.
Intellectual
Emotional
Physical
Spiritual
Socio-Economic
Relationship
“To step back to tradition is the first step forward.” Mali Proverb
Portland, OR. At Sitton School in North Portland, kids picked out their favorite books to share with a new friend—a black and white poodle named Molly, who is just there to listen. Jose struggled but was excited to share a soccer book with Molly as part of “Shadow Day.” The annual event on February 14th was organized by The Shadow Project which was founded in 2003 (and named for a special dog) to provide students with learning challenges the tools they need to succeed in the classroom. (Photo credit, Ben Brink)
Sherry Amspacher and Molly are from Columbia River Pet Partners. They listen to a student read in Sitton Elementary’s SuperSensory Literacy Space, a unique sensory library created by The Shadow Project to instill calm and focus in kids with learning challenges like dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and speech/language disorders. (Photo Ben Brink)
Struggling readers show courage by reading aloud to dogs.
For many children with learning challenges like dyslexia, who are behind in reading levels, the idea of sharing a book aloud is fraught with anxiety. Finding the courage to overcome the fear of reading can be a battle.“I don’t like reading because I’m not good at it,” says fifth grader Kaleah.
Educators say that dogs make great reading partners because they can gently nudge students to keep going, or strategically place a paw to offer support and enhance focus. Dogs also have a calming effect that can reduce anxiety, and their quiet presence boosts confidence, courage … and reading comprehension.
Indeed, Molly quietly lays on her blanket and sets her chin on the kids’ legs, closing her eyes to the soft sound of the students’ reading. No matter that their words are sometimes halting. No matter that they miss some words or mix up letters. Molly patiently listens, and the kids finish their books and forget for a moment their struggles with reading.
“That was so fun!” says Kaleah. “I can’t wait to read again!”
Shadow Day is an annual event to honor Shadow, a dog born on Valentine’s Day, who is the inspiration behind the nonprofit Shadow Project. The Shadow Project arranged for Molly’s visit in collaboration with Columbia River Pet Partners to celebrate its 15th anniversary in Portland Public schools, and the fourth year in the district’s innovative, collaborative Read Together initiative, which is focused on literacy in underserved schools.
“Year after year, two-thirds of Oregon children with disabilities miss the critical benchmark of third grade reading proficiency that predicts high school graduation,” says Shadow Project Founder and Executive Director Christy Scattarella. “If our community is truly committed to increasing graduation rates, we urgently need to address the overlooked one in eight children who learn differently. Providing students with learning disabilities access to the tools they need to achieve is critical.”
The Shadow Project began in two classrooms in Duniway School, becoming a 501(3) organization in 2003. Since then, Shadow has fostered success for more than 11,000 Portland children with learning challenges.
“I am so grateful to The Shadow Project for their vision and leadership in our schools,” says Bish. “They are integral to our program of serving students with more intensive learning and behavior support needs.”
For more information, go to shadow-project.org.
History:
The Shadow Project was initiated in 1997 by a Portland, Ore., mom whose son struggled with reading, writing, and spelling, due to dyslexia and ADD. Bright and creative second-grader Alex was so discouraged in school that he was often reduced to tears, gripping his pencil so hard that it tore the paper. His mom, Christy Scattarella, worried that the challenge of learning would shred his spirit, as well.
One day, Alex came home beaming, proudly showing his mom the thrift store Garfield he had earned in his special education class for setting and achieving a reading goal. Christy said he was like an Olympic athlete in his excitement over his achievement.
But that night, Alex’s puppy, Shadow, chewed Garfield to shreds. Alex was devastated.
Christy offered Alex a new stuffed animal, but Alex refused saying, “It wouldn’t be the same. Garfield was special because I EARNED him.”
Inspired by the powerful lesson her eight-year-old was teaching about perseverance and pride in accomplishment, Christy began researching children with learning disabilities, discovering that children in special education are one of the country’s highest at risk populations. She also learned that her son’s special education teacher was spending nearly $1,000 each school year — not uncommon for these peerless educators — on thrift store incentives in an attempt to prevent the early discouragement that often portends devastating failure.
Christy felt the success of children with learning challenges should be a community concern and that more support was needed for special education teachers, in order to create courageous kids, boost reading scores, and improve graduation rates. She came up with a plan to broaden Alex’s teacher’s strategy. With Portland Public School District’s encouragement, Christy offered her program — The Shadow Project, named after Alex’s dog — to two classrooms, for a total of 40 students.
Over the next six years, The Shadow Project evolved from an all-volunteer operation into a full-scale goal-setting program for 1,000 children in special education. In 2003, The Shadow Project became a 501(c)3 organization.
In 2004, the Portland Public School District donated space for The Shadow Project to house the books and literacy supplies provided to teachers utilizing the goal-setting program. The following year, the organization hired its first paid staff member, a half-time program administrator.
Social Venture Partners Portland gave The Shadow Project a three-year grant in 2007, as well as expert volunteer assistance on its first strategic plan, leading to multiple program enhancements, including a new warehouse inventory system and a strengthened board. In 2011, The Shadow Project was selected by the Harvard Business School Association of Oregon as the beneficiary of its Community Partners Program, calculating its Social Return on Investment and, based on strong results, outlining a plan to enhance and expand the program to help more children achieve.
In 2013, The Shadow Project was selected for an innovative collaborative impact program with Portland Public Schools to help improve third-grade reading scores. PPS’ selected five high-needs Portland schools for the what’s known as the Read Together initiative, contracting with The Shadow Project to implement five SuperSensory Literacy Spaces in those schools’ classrooms.
In 2014, Christy’s book The Boy Who Learned Upside Down — based on Alex’s experiences — was published by Heron Press.
Today, The Shadow Project has three full-time employees and an AmeriCorps VISTA. More than 10,000 children in Oregon have benefited from The Shadow Project’s unique goal-setting program, now available in the Portland-area and Yamhill County.
Alex is a college graduate, who is a strong advocate for children with learning challenges. He volunteers with The Shadow Project, visiting classrooms to tell kids that they, too, can achieve if they work hard.
Portland, OR. Velvet-voiced radio personalities from All Classical Portland were out in force to support the inaugural Lovefest Concert at the Alberta Rose Theatre. On-air hosts at the benefit included John Pitman, Suzanne Nance, Warren Black, Ed Goldberg, Andrea Murray, Brandi Parisi, John Burk, Robert McBride, Christa Wessel, and Matt Rogers. They introduced the performances by musicians such as Monica Huggett & John Lenti, Angela Niederloh & Matthew Hayward and Monica Ohuchi & Kenji Bunch and more. The concert had over 300 attendees and raised $10,000, which included a corporate sponsorship from Oregon Hot Tub.
All Classical Portland’s Senior Announcer Robert McBride and President & CEO Suzanne Nance emceeing All Classical Portland’s Lovefest Concert at the Alberta Rose Theatre.
Angela Niederloh and Matthew Hayward (married) and singing “Cheek to Cheek” by Irving Berlin at All Classical Portland’s Lovefest Concert at Alberta Rose Theatre.
Violist and composer Kenji Bunch and pianist Monica Ohuchi (married) performing Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet at All Classical Portland’s Lovefest Concert at Alberta Rose Theatre.
World renowned violinist Monica Huggett and lutenist John Lenti perform La Folia at All Classical Portland’s Lovefest Concert at Alberta Rose Theatre.
Violinists and talented married couple, Sarah Kwak and Vali Phillips, perform a passionate tango at All Classical Portland’s Lovefest Concert at the Alberta Rose Theatre.
Violinists (and married couple) Sarah Kwak and Vali Phillips perform Piazzolla’s Libertango for a packed house at All Classical Portland’s Lovefest Concert at Alberta Rose Theatre.
All Classical Portland on-air hosts John Burk and Warren Black emceeing at All Classical Portland’s Lovefest Concert at Alberta Rose Theatre.
Accordionist Mike Danner performing Cole Porter’s I Love Paris at All Classical Portland’s Lovefest Concert at the Alberta Rose Theatre.
From All Classical Portland:
All Classical Portland is Portland, Oregon’s classical radio station. Established in 1983, All Classical Portland’s mission is to advance knowledge of and appreciation for classical music; to build and sustain culturally vibrant local and global communities around this art form; to reflect the spirit of the Pacific Northwest; and to foster integrity, quality, and innovation in all that we do.
The stations of All Classical Portland rebroadcast the KQAC signal from Portland.
Classical music for the Hood River area became a reality with the launch of KQHR 90.1FM in November 2001.
All Classical Portland added a new station in October 2008, KQDL 88.1 The Dalles. In May 2008, a long-time dream to have a classical station at the Oregon Coast became reality when KQOC 88.1 FM went on the air from Cape Foulweather. Our strongest signal in Oregon, this station reaches Tillamook and Cannon Beach to the north and Yachats to the south.
In 2011, KQHR’s frequency moved to 88.1 and a repeater station in the east Columbia Gorge was added at 96.3. KQHR’s power increased and KQDL went off the air as 88.1 and 96.3 now cover the gorge. 2014 saw the addition of two new KQAC repeater stations, KQMI 88.9 FM in Manzanita, Oregon, and 95.7 FM in Corvallis, Oregon.
As non-commercial public radio stations, KQAC, KQHR, KQOC, and KQMI rely on listener contributions, a marvelous, broad community of support, which provide over 93% of our budget. This amazing show of support includes funding from various regional foundations and local businesses and arts organizations that underwrite our programming through on-air sponsorships. Additionally, a small portion of our annual budget comes from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB).
For a full history of All Classical Portland, please see this booklet, which we created in August 2013 in celebration of our 30thAnniversary.
Your contribution is held by All Classical Public Media, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving classical music radio and radio broadcast education in Portland. Tax-ID # 93-1042868.
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This fund may be used by Friendly House Senior Program and SAGE Metro Portland clients for short-term emergency rental assistance, application fees, and other eviction prevention and homeless intervention supports. Vera’s Purse provides Friendly House staff with yet another tool to help the vulnerable among us to live safely, with dignity and security. All donations to Vera’s Purse go directly to client assistance.
