Portland, February 9th, 2013. Young Audiences supporters embraced the “Young At Art” theme during the nonprofit’s spring gala at the Multnomah Athletic Club. 225 guests cheered 5th Graders from Salish-Ponds Elementary School who performed their original material to captivate the audience. The event raised funds for local arts education programs. (Photo credit, Edis Jurcys)
Warner Munro, Board Member, Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund; Robin Mesher, Board Member, Young Audiences; Julie Brock, Account Executive, Business Development at NAVEX Global and Page Mesher, Owner, Off the Wall Magnetics
Dave Halsey, Vice President, Patrick Lumber Co.; Jill Abere, Vice President, Branch Manager at Chubb Insurance; Ken Abere, Partner, Cosgrave, Vergeer, Kester LLP; Judy Rompa, Executive Board Member, Young Audiences
With Julie Emry as their host, 225 guests enjoyed entertainment by Broadway Conductor Kurt Crowley with vocalist Rebecca Teran, 5th graders from Salish-Ponds Elementary School, and Young Audiences advocate Julianne Johnson. After the program supporters danced the night away with Portland dance band 5 Guys Named Mo.
Young Audiences Supporters Rick Mayo and Dalene Neville
Young Audiences is the region’s leading source of varied arts in education services and programs. For more than 50 years this organization has used the arts to engage young people, develop problem solving and creative thinking skills, and increase academic achievement. Young Audiences relies on the support of foundations, individuals and corporations that share our heartfelt commitment to improving the lives and educational opportunities for every child.
Marie VerMeer, Columbia Sportswear and Julianne Johnson-Weiss, Performer, Recording Artist, Choral Director and Arts Advocate
From Young Audiences of Oregon and SW Washington
Young Audiences of Oregon was founded in 1958 as a local chapter of the nation’s largest arts-in-education organization. In 1989, the Portland-based organization merged with a smaller chapter in Vancouver to become Young Audiences of Oregon & SW Washington. We have steadily grown in scope and programming, evolving from presenting only classical music performances in our early years to currently offering a full range of educational arts programming in multiple disciplines and cultures – the only arts organization in the region to do so.
Portland, February 12th, 2013. The Baghdad Theater echoed with mortifying memories for the 4th annual Valentine’s benefit: “It’s Not Me, It’s You: Stories from the Dark Side of Dating!” Jimmy Radosta (center) hosted storytellers sharing about their worst dates: Clockwise from left, Meagan Kate, Meredith Shield, Lori Ferraro, Arianne Cohen, Michael Heald, B. Frayn Masters, Ted Douglass and Erin Ergenbright. (Photo credit, Andie Petkus.)
Attendees purchased “Love Boxes” containing mystery gifts donated by local businesses to support Planned Parenthood Advocates of Oregon. Photo by Andie Petkus.
“It’s Not Me, It’s You” drew hundreds of supporters of reproductive rights. Photo by Andie Petkus.
Bagdad Theater has served as the home for “It’s Not Me, It’s You” since 2010. Photo by Andie Petkus.
About Planned Parenthood Advocates
Planned Parenthood Advocates of Oregon is an independent, non-partisan, not-for-profit organization formed as the political arm of Planned Parenthood. Planned Parenthood Advocates of Oregon engages in educational and electoral activity including public education campaigns, grassroots organizing, and legislative advocacy.
In 2002, we formed Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon, which is a statewide, non-partisan political action committee that supports pro-choice, pro-family planning candidates for office. ChoiceAdvocates.org
Portland, February 5th, 2013. Oregon Governors Atiyeh, Kulongoski and Kitzhaber were among the 600 Concordia University supporters at a gala to raise funds for student scholarships. Portland Public Schools Superintendent Carole Smith had talked education with former Governor Atiyeh, Concordia President Charles Schlimpert, Oregon Governor Kitzhaber and former Governor Kulongoski. (Photo credit, Steve Harmon)
Former Oregon Governor Victor Atiyeh (center) handed out Concordia’s Governor Victor Atiyeh Leadership in Education Awards to Carilyn Alexander (accepting on behalf of her late husband Dick Alexander) and Ken Thrasher, chairman of Compli.
Richard C. “Dick” Alexander died on Oct. 16th. He was the Founder of Viking International and is widely credited with persuading the Oregon Legislature to pump $25 million more a year into Head Start, ensuring that 3,000 more kids attend each year. Gov. Kitzhaber commented, on Alexander’s legacy saying, “Dick always put the needs of the community first and served the state of Oregon with dignity. He had a deep commitment and a gentle heart, and his legacy will continue to touch and shape the lives of Oregonians for generations to come.”
Keynote speaker Salman Khan earned a standing ovation when he shared his story of founding and growing Khan Academy to now seven million monthly users. He emphasized its mission to provide “A free world class education for anyone anywhere,” and closed the event by stating his view that “Education should be a right, like drinking water.”
600 attendees filled the Kridel Grand Ballroom at the Portland Art Museum
Concordia University President Charles Schlimpert at the podium.
The second annual Concordia University Governor Victor Atiyeh Leadership in Education Awards, presented by HotChalk Inc, recognized two honorees – Ken Thrasher and the late Dick Alexander – for their leadership in early childhood education in Oregon.
Following the event, 120 iPads used on the tables were donated by presenting sponsor HotChalk Inc., to Faubion School, a local, urban, preK-8 public school adjacent to Concordia University. The iPads will be used by students and educators to help improve access to technology resources for Faubion’s students.
Concordia, Faubion and Portland Public Schools are expanding their partnership to create a national model committed to helping young people fulfill their potential from age “3 to PhD.”
This year’s 2013 Atiyeh Scholars include the following 16 Concordia University students: Anab Abdirahman, Temari Asazuki, Scott Cozza, Marcie Fitzgerald, Megan Haug, Emmanuel Henreid, Feliza Lopez-Sanchaez, Shannon Mackaben, Jennifer McDonnell, Danetta Monk, Damien Ntawumpora, Sable Phillipi, Yuki Rutherford, Naiby Tejero, Angela Tsoumas, and Leily Villela.
Concordia University is pioneering education innovation in the region by preparing the next generation of teachers. The University’s greatest growth over the past few years is in its Masters of Education degree programs online. Now, Concordia’s EdD will launch online and on ground this spring.
ABOUT CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY
Concordia University is a private, nonprofit, Lutheran, liberal arts university founded in 1905 with a mission to prepare leaders for the transformation of society. Concordia is currently Oregon’s fastest growing university with more than 23% enrollment growth in 2012 to more than 3,500 students. For the fourth consecutive year, Concordia was recognized on the U.S. President’s Community Service Honor Roll and as 7th in the nation in service by Washington Monthly magazine. Its College of Education is committed to preparing the world’s best teachers through its courses in Portland, across Oregon, and online.
Portland, November 11th. The Cause + Event Foundation hosted its inaugural race for 300 athletes who like to run for a cause. Instead of an event benefiting one cause, runners selected from several local charities, and some suggested their own beneficiaries. The event featured a 5K walk, 5K run or 10K run in the Bethany area of NW Portland and raised over $6,000.
Launched in January of 2012, the Cause + Event Foundation is donating $5 to every runner’s nonprofit of choice. “I am passionate about a few causes that are close to my heart,” said Amy Little, Race Director. “As with many runners, I want to have the flexibility to run and raise money for MY cause. We hope this event is very successful for years to come.”
Amy Little is the Race Director for Cause + Event Portland – 5K/10K Walk + Run
Utilizing local resources and being environmentally responsible are two of the many unique aspects of the event. “Our goal is to be a zero-impact environmental event and we’ll do everything we can in our first year to reach our goal,” said Waste Management Coordinator and certified Master Recycler Audrey Schaab. The race also featured childcare.
10-K runners
Registration was $30 for runners on a team of five or more, and $45 for individual runners.
When asked why she wants to volunteer her time for the race Amy Little said, “I want to give back and raising money for local nonprofits through my favorite activity is a great way to do it.” Little has a few favorite charities, but most recently she has been supportive of charities relating to women’s health issues. Little was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer in June of this year, and throughout her treatment has continued to move forward with plans for the race. “Now, more than ever, I can see the significance of what we’re doing. It’s special, and I’m blessed to have the opportunity.”
West Linn, October 27th. WildCat Haven celebrated its 11th Anniversary with a benefit gala at the Oregon Golf Club. (Photo credit, Karine Aigner) The nonprofit is the only local sanctuary for big cats where supporters are happy to report, “Over 60 wildcats are no longer suffering from pain and neglect – they are living a safe, healthy, comfortable life.” It was a packed house at the auction with Scott Tom from 106.7 presiding as emcee.
Mike & Cheryl Tuller, Founders of WildCat Haven, spoke of their passion for the big cats. They shared information about WCH’s mission and presented a video showing the new property recently purchased to move the sanctuary to, which is over 80 acres.
Tim Harrison explains the program
Ken Hick
Howard Hedinger Table’s was an upbeat spot
Howard Hedinger was transformed into a philenthropic rockstar
There was a great turnout at the benefit.
cougar resident
Adele Tom and Elizabeth Entenman
Guest have fun with the Conga line
Cheri Cooley Hick and Scott Tom
Cheri Cooley Hick and Scott Tom
Sophia Kryszek, John Prengaman, Karine Aigner, Tim Harrison, Cheryl Tuller, Mike Tuller and Tim Adams in front.
Wild Cat Red Wine
Folks were glued to their seats when Special Guest Speaker, Tim Harrison, star of the Genesis award winning documentary, “The Elephant in the Living Room” introduced the WCH video showing the wildcat rescues and then gave an impassioned speech about WCH’s most recent rescue of Nora & Katie, two bengal tigers from Ohio this past May. Tim & his team from Outreach for Animals were on site to help Mike & Cheryl prepare and load the tigers for the 2500 miles journey back to Oregon. Tim shared that International Fund for Animals (IFAW) helped with costs for the transport and are continuing to work with WCH for future rescue missions. Scott Tom & Cheri Hick presented a Special Appeal to raise funds for the new property and started the fun with a Conga Line! Simply ‘A Purrfect Evening!”
From WildCat Haven:
WildCat Haven is a 501(c)3 non-profit, no-kill, ‘last hope’ sanctuary located in beautiful Sherwood, Oregon. Our mission is to provide a safe, natural lifetime home for captive-born wildcats in need. As the only sanctuary accredited by The American Sanctuary Association(ASA) in the Pacific Northwest, WildCat Haven is not open to the public; nor do we buy, sell, breed or exhibit our animals. It’s a philosophy we believe in and stand by for the safety and well being of the wildcats.
We are not a zoo for people but a safe haven for the animals in our care. Our rescues depend on us to provide for them. They trust we will keep them safe, comfortable, healthy and free from the pain and suffering they have experienced. And we are committed to fulfilling that trust every day. WildCat Haven receives no state or federal funding. Instead, we rely 100% on private donations.
WildCat Haven Sanctuary is proud and honored to announce the FREE screening of the film The Paw Project – A Documentary which will be held at The Mission Theater in Portland Oregon on November 18th, 2012 from 1 pm to 3 pm. The Paw Project documentary is an inspiring David and Goliath story of veterinarian Dr. Jennifer Conrad’s grassroots movement to protect felines, both large and small, from the cruelty of declawing and how the movement has prevailed despite the efforts of well-funded professional veterinary associations to thwart the movement.
In the United States today, approximately 25% of domesticated cats are declawed. Declawing is the amputation of the last bone in a cat’s toes. Despite the physical and behavioral harm inflicted on cats who are declawed, many veterinarians continue to recommend the procedure — which costs upwards of $1,200 per hour – even for very young kittens.
These are animals we love, and with whom we share our homes. Why aren’t we being told the truth of what the declawing procedure involves? What goes on when the vet takes our beloved companions in the back of the veterinary clinic? The Paw Project documentary chronicles the happy and unexpected twist of fate that led to the protection of many animals through the grassroots advocacy led by Dr. Conrad and The Paw Project. Please watch the trailer for The Paw Project Documentary and join us November 18th. Let’s show Dr. Conrad that she has Portland’s support on this issue! This film has been submitted to The Sundance Film Festival, so now is your chance to see it before it goes mainstream! http://www.wildcathaven.org/
Portland, November 7th. After publishing 384 stories about local nonprofits and racking up over 120,000 page views, PortlandSocietyPage.com is marking its first anniversary by handing out the “Bright Spot Award” to Big Brothers/Big Sisters Columbia Northwest. The award recognizes an event which captured the imagination of our readers, and in this case prompted them to give our Big Brothers/Big Sisters story the most “thumbs-up” votes of any article on the website. We made the announcement at a gathering for The Baltazar Ortiz Community Mentoring Initiative where we visited with Danielle, who’s pictured with me, Editor Elisa Klein, and her program little sister, Kyara. It was a chance to learn more about the new program.
The Baltazar Ortiz Community Mentoring Initiative (BOCMI) is an innovative program that connects Hispanic teens who serve as mentors to younger neighborhood children helping them to improve their positive social skills and academic achievement.
Emanuel and Jerry enjoy the program. The Baltazar Ortiz Community Mentoring Initiative is a partnership between Big Brothers Big Sisters, Hacienda CDC, and Multnomah County. The mentoring takes place at the Multnomah County Health Clinic located at the Baltazar Ortiz Community Center.
Moses and Torrence are part of the program. Teenage volunteers like Torrence meet with their Little Brothers or Sisters once a week, for one hour. Together they participate in activities which might include playing sports, doing homework, learning a new hobby or working on a craft project; organizers say it’s beneficial for both.
Jacqui and Estrella are learning first hand BOCMI is a win-win situation. The organized activities prevent both teen mentors and their matches from becoming “latch-key” kids.
Abby Herrera, Bryan Ortega, Christina Starr and Drea Robideau help the kids become successful.
We were pleased to honor Big Brothers/Big Sisters with PortlandSocietyPage.com Bright Spot Award. In addition to added community exposure for the nonprofit and a monetary donation, the award includes a chance to publicize an upcoming event with an advertisement which now appears on the sidebar of our site. The ad has information about Big Brothers/Big Sisters’ 10th annual Start Something Breakfast which is coming up on Thursday, November 15th. Tickets are still available.
PortlandSocietyPage.com is a the only website devoted to nonprofit news in Portland. If we publish an article about your favorite nonprofit, please give it a “thumbs up”. Each story we post has as a “like” button at the bottom. Just press that button and you’ll help select our next “Bright Spot” recipient. There’s an ongoing tally which can be seen on the right-hand side of the page.
About PortlandSocietyPage.com: Launched in the fall of 2011 as a free public platform for nonprofit news, PortlandSocietyPage.com is thriving. We have the most comprehensive nonprofit event calendar in our area. Our coverage is always free. We’re also looking for advertisers! Please let us know if you’d like to reach our terrific readers with your marketing message! The PortlandSocietyPage.com website has additional information about this opportunity. Here’s a link: http://www.portlandsocietypage.com/advertise/
Portland, October 18th. The 2012 A Gathering of Good raised nearly $240,000 to support Metropolitan Family Service and the thousands of children, families and older adults who participate in its programs. Duncan Wyse, President of the Oregon Business Council accepted the Provocateur Award for his extraordinary efforts to build a cohesive strategy for strengthening our economy. He’s pictured with Dick Reiten, Former Board Chair of Northwest Natural Gas Company; Judy Strand, CEO of Metropolitan Family Service; Donna Edwards, Board Chair of Metropolitan Family Service; and Carla Piluso, Master of Ceremony. (Photo credit, Andie Petkus) The theme of the fourth annual A Gathering of Good – the signature benefit for Metropolitan Family Service – was Creating a Prosperous Economy Together. Nearly 300 guests were in attendance.
The guests enjoyed a roof-raising choral performance by the Gresham High School honor choir, The Overtones.
At this year’s A Gathering of Good, a dynamic group of thought leaders discussed innovation and growth in our local economy. Judy Strand, CEO of Metropolitan Family Service joins panelists (from left) Tamara Lundgren, President and CEO of Schnitzer Steel; Luis Machuca, CEO of Kryptiq; Dr. Wim Wiewel, President of Portland State University; and Jeff Harvey, President and CEO of Burgerville.
Topics included identifying risks Oregon and SW Washington need to take to promote a more innovative and vital region overall; re-energizing our education system to create lifelong learners and a capable and skilled workforce; and ways businesses, government, education and nonprofits can work together to create tangible social change and economic prosperity.
The raise the paddle resonated with supporters.
Duncan Wyse, President of Oregon Business Council, was awarded this year’s Provocateur Award for his work in building a strong business environment in Oregon. Shown from left to right: Dick Reiten; Judy Strand, CEO of Metropolitan Family Service; Duncan Wyse, President of Oregon Business Council, and his wife Aileen Wyse.
A Gathering of Good is the culmination of a year long discussion series organized by Metropolitan Family Service. The agog discussion series is designed to promote face-to-face conversation, civic engagement and social change. Discussions are privately hosted and revolve around a theme focusing on a significant community issue that affects everyone.
Over the last four years, Metropolitan Family Service has organized 48 agog discussions, enlisted 100 topic experts to moderate them, and engaged 700 community members. The convergence of corporate, private, public and social sectors that agog discussions bring together has stimulated Metropolitan Family Service in crafting a new paradigm in social service delivery.
Currently, Metropolitan Family Service is working on several initiatives as they relate to workforce readiness and economic development in the community. The organization’s programs include financial education courses for parents; working with youth and families in 25 low income school communities to strengthen academic success and interpersonal skills; involvement with STEM industries to bring business and education together, and supporting people throughout the lifespan to build strength in all stages of life. Collectively, Metropolitan Family Service’s work contributes to and supports a vibrant economy.
Portland, October 25th. Reigning chef, Rick Widmayer of The Screen Door restaurant, held his title as Portland’s Iron Chef. Chloe Houser from PDX TV was the emcee at a benefit for the Children’s Relief Nursery, now a program of LifeWorks NW. In July, Children’s Relief Nursery became a program of LifeWorks NW, a non-profit dedicated to building healthy community through prevention, mental health, and addiction services across the lifespan.
Bidders supported LifeWorks NW’s work addressing Mental Health & Addiction Services for a Healthy Community
All 5 competing chefs: Ben Shaw from Simpatica; Jill Ramseier from Deschutes Brewery; Gavin Ledson from Jamison; Rick Widmayer from The Screen Door; and Laura Rhoman from Slappy cakes
Ben Shaw from Simpatica
Laura Rhoman from Slappy Cakes talking to the auctioneer, Graham Crow
Guests at the standing room only event were the judges, after getting a chance to meet and talk with the chefs and tasting their delicious “autumn themed” appetizers. The event raised $60,000. The evening also included a highly successful silent and live auction as well as dessert and a moving story from Children’s Relief Nursery client, mother, and grandmother, Michelle.
Jill Ramseier from Deschutes Brewery
“The event was an amazing success for Children’s Relief Nursery and the families. We are so thankful to all of the night’s participants, chefs, volunteers for their support of this important program,” said Mary Monnat, President/CEO of LifeWorks NW. “This is a newer event for us, with the Nursery program joining us in July, and the appetizer competition was stiff. We thank each and every chef and restaurant for their participation and congratulate Chef Rick Widmayer and The Screen Door on retaining the title of Portland’s Original Iron Chef.”
Children’s Relief Nursery is dedicated to keeping children safe and families strong. For over a decade, it has worked with at-risk families for child abuse and neglect, incorporating wrap-around services that include parenting education, therapeutic classrooms for children, respite childcare, mental health therapy, and home visits. Children’s Relief Nursery builds healthy relationships between parents and their children and works with infants and toddlers up to age four as early intervention in the first years of life is critical to a child’s future development.
Event sponsors included: NW Natural, The Standard, Fred Meyer, Providence Health Systems, and the University of Portand.
For more information about Children’s Relief Nursery, please go to www.lifeworksnw.org
Portland, September 29th. Two hundred supporters attended Write Around Portland’s annual fundraiser: XY&Z. Heidi Bazille and Kara Pierce tried their hand at the “Word Salad” activity board. The party raised $44,000 to help fund Write Around Portland’s creative writing workshops held at places like the Oregon Burn Center, The Sexual Assault Resource Center, Portland Youth Builders, Coffee Creek Correctional Facility, and Helensview High School.
Allison Bick and Kara Bader
Event Chairs Kari Easton, Georgia Hussey, Kate Rood and Alexandra Walford credited generous donors for their success. They also thanked venue hosts, “Design Within Reach” saying the modern furniture studio was the perfect setting for vintage typewriters and a cocktail party atmosphere that made XY&Z special.
Jenni Leasia, Steve Leasia and Anne Scott enjoy XY&Z, Write Around Portland’s Annual Fundraiser.
Stephanie Barr is excited to offer her support at XY&Z.
From Write Around Portland:
Write Around Portland transforms lives and our communities through the power of writing. The organization brings free 10-week creative writing workshops to nearly 500 adults and youth each year in hospitals, schools, homeless youth shelters, senior centers, low income apartments, prisons, social service agencies and treatment facilities. Workshops culminate in community readings and three beautifully designed books annually. Write Around Portland also offers writing workshops for the general public. They offer regular workshops at Powell’s Books and HOTLIPS Pizza. For more information, visit www.writearound.org.
Portland, August 11th. The Bite of Oregon is a celebration of Oregon, its food, its people and quality of life. With hundreds of restaurant and dozens of breweries and wineries represented, the Special Olympics Oregon benefit attracts food fans by the thousands.
Sizzling seafood paella was a hit.
“The Usual Suspects” entertain the crowd. It’s the band of Police Chief, Mike Reed.
Viewed as a foodie’s dream come true, the Gerry Frank’s Oregon Chef’s table is an opportunity to experience small gourmet bites from some of the top chefs from around the state.
Eddy Gonzales, Chef Shyam Dausoa from Chez Dodo and Sala Kannan were serving Dholl Puri and Portobello Bury – a Mushroom Curry with Lentil Fritters served Chutney & Pickled Vegetables.
Chef Chris Carriker from the Gilt Club served up Grilled Pork Belly Skewer with Kohlrabi Slaw, Fried Peanuts and Cilantro and Lamb Meatballs with Fresh Chickpea Relish, Goat Cheese & Herbs.
Lilie Boni, Henry Car and Elizabeth Kennedy from Brix Tavern served Smoked Grilled Local Salmon Brochettes with Heirloom Tomatoes & Rocket Pesto.
B. O’Shea, Chef Aaron Gerra, Pamela McConnell, Chef Aaron Guerra CEC, DM – ACF Portland Culinary Team Member with the Oregon Blueberry Commission served Fresh Oregon Blueberries Foster w/ Hand Dipped Ice Cream, Balsamic Reduction.
At the popular Iron Chef Oregon competitions, presented by NW Natural, talented Oregon Chefs battled it out to see whose cuisine reigned supreme.
Lucy Willis from Lucy’s Tropical Juice sold fruit smoothies.
Volunteers Isabel Klein and PJ Hummelt were two of hundreds who pitched in at the benefit for Oregon Special Olympics.
Oregon Brewers were out in force.
Ice cream served up by volunteers, including members of the National Charity League Genevieve and Mariel Klein, was a hit with the kids.
Soul Vaccination, the popular fund and soul band, performed for music lovers.
About Special Olympics Oregon
Here in Oregon, while Special Olympics Oregon serves more than 10,000 participants throughout the state, nearly 70,000 people with intellectual disabilities could benefit from participating in Special Olympics. Still growing, Special Olympics Oregon is efficiently expanding programs to get closer and closer to serving every individual with intellectual disabilities that qualifies to participate in Special Olympics.
Special Olympics Oregon offers training and competition opportunities in 14 different Olympic-style sports. There are three sports seasons throughout the year, with statewide competitions and training in winter, summer and fall.
The nonprofit is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a bang!
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