Portland, OR. Alisha Zhao started the nonprofit Kids First Project in 2015. Now she’s been named one of 2018 L’Oréal Woman of Worth. Her charity can also win an additional $25,000 if supporters vote for Alisha at womenofworth.com.
Today the Kids First Project serves 10 locations with more than 400 volunteers in Portland and the San Francisco Bay area. It serves approximately 500 families who are experiencing homelessness each year.
Given the social, cognitive, and academic benefits of extracurricular activities, programs and volunteers are needed in shelters to empower youth experiencing homelessness to reach their full potential.
When Alisha Zhao first volunteered at a family homeless shelter at age 14, she was surrounded by children who shared hopes of becoming dancers, doctors, and even the president of the United States. While these dreams were inspiring, they opened Alisha’s eyes to the unmet needs of youth experiencing homelessness and led Alisha to found the Kids First Project in 2015 to help bridge the gap between a child experiencing homelessness and the resources they need to help them reach their full potential. Through a unique approach that brings extracurricular programs directly to kids living in shelters, Kids First Project offers peer mentoring, physical activities, arts and crafts, tutoring, life skills classes, monthly field trips, and themed programs from puzzle to poetry nights. Kids First Project also supports parents and gives them time to relax, find housing, and focus on themselves through enrichment programs that offer civic and government programs to educate adults about their rights as a homeless individual.
Here’s a link with more information about Kids First Project: http://kidsfirstproject.org/about.html
Portland, OR. Families of seriously ill or injured children had their spirits lifted by 500 supporters at the October 13th Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Hearts & Hands gala. The benefit at the Oregon Convention Center raised over $730,000. Jessica Jarratt Miller, CEO of RMHC, (center) thanked donors like Gary and Christine Rood. “I am so grateful for everyone that attended this year’s Hearts & Hands Gala & Auction. From Gary & Christine Rood to Claudine Tanner, our biggest supporters made it a night to remember.”
Right now there are two local Ronald McDonald Houses, but in early 2019, (RMHC) of Oregon & SW Washington will open its new South Waterfront House on the west side of town at the OHSU Gary & Christine Rood Family Pavilion. (RMHC) Provides a “home away from home” for families with seriously ill children, and supports initiatives to improve pediatric health. (Photo credit, Trevor Pound)
Susan Schnitzer, Phil Fogg, Jessica Jarratt Miller
Brad & Judy Johnson
The Tanner Family
David Payne, Jessica Jarratt Miller
Paddles Raise to Support Families for One Night
Guests from OHSU
Supporters of RMHC celebrate to close out the evening
The event supports families like the Ornie family, from Raymond, Washington, whose two-year old daughter Kaylina is receiving cancer treatment at OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. Here’s a video about their journey.
“Kaylina and her family are so brave and we at Ronald McDonald House Charities are lucky to be able to support them though their journey. Our Oregon Ronald McDonald Houses have provided the whole Ornie clan from grandma to younger sister, Irelynn, a chance to stay close to Kaylina during her treatment,” said Jessica Jarratt Miller, CEO of RMHC. “The Ornies are prime examples of why we gather in support and strive to serve more and more families in need.”
With over $730,000 raised, the impact to the four Oregon Ronald McDonald Houses is substantial. It costs RMHC $150 to host a family for one night, and the Gala’s success allows the organization to provide a loving “home away from home” for families for over 4,833 nights. For families who must travel far from home and grapple with the stress and uncertainty of having a sick child, having a place to call home and a supportive community is priceless.
The sponsors who made the event possible, included: (Presenting Sponsor): John L. Scott Foundation (Platinum Sponsors): Coca-Cola Company; Swire Coca-Cola, USA; OHSU; (Gold Sponsors): Hoffman Construction Company; KPFF; McDonald’s Owner/Operators; US Bank; ZGF (Silver Sponsors): Baird, First Tech Federal Credit Union; Netrush, OEG (Bronze Sponsors); Kaiser Permanente; McDonalds Owners and Operators; Moda; Parr Lumber; Turner Construction (Enrichment Sponsors): Allied Partners; Barran Liebman Attorneys; DR Pepper Snapple Group; Douglas & Gloria Rumberger Foundation; Ken Wright Cellars Moonstruck Chocolates; McDonald Jacobs; Moss Adams, LLP; Pacific Office Automation.
Portland, OR. Oregon Energy Fund (OEF) raised a record-breaking $80,000 at its annual Power Gala on October 6th. The funds will support its mission of helping Oregonians in financial crisis pay their energy bills. More than 100 guests attended the Roaring ’20s-themed event, which was emceed by Drew Carney of KGW-TV and featured live and silent auctions hosted by Misty Marquam, live blues music by Smut City Jellyroll Society, and a speakeasy photo booth by instaPix NW. The PGE team included Tyler Richardson, Rimma Richardson, Mark Gilgan, Kalia Savage, Kelly Gilgan, Daniel Carrasco, Elisa Gary, Lauren Isaac, Anne Wahr, and Sarah Sims. (Photo credit, Nina Johnson)
Bob Harding (Columbia Bank) and Jay Phillipe show their enthusiasm for Oregon Energy Fund.
Brian, Susan, and Bob Walsh of Walsh Trucking arrive at the gala.
Executive Director Brian Allbritton addresses the room at the Sentinel.
Jason & Melica Heuser (Eugene Water & Electric Board) raise a bid for energy assistance.
Smut City Jellyroll Society livens up the silent auction with some swinging tunes.
Auctioneer Misty Marquam and emcee Drew Carney prepare to announce the raffle winner.
Cassidy Johnston and Brendan Tonkin (R\West) take a break from dessert to share their excitement.
From Oregon Energy Fund:
Representatives from Portland General Electric, Walsh Trucking, Pacific Power, R\West, NW Natural, McDowell Rackner Gibson PC, and TEC Equipment were among those who contributed to this year’s success; OEF looks forward to continuing the momentum at next year’s 30th anniversary celebration.
Portland, OR. Legacy Emanuel Medical Center celebrated the caregivers who treat seriously ill or injured patients using Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) technology. (An ECMO machine substitutes for a patient’s failed lungs or heart. This revolutionary technology allows the lungs to rest, giving the body time to fight the infection by oxygenating the blood outside of the body when the lungs cannot function normally.) About 150 guests gathered in The Atrium of Legacy Emanuel on October 5th to raise funds for the hospital’s ECMO program. Guests enjoying the benefit included Sara Weinstein and Frank Piacentini who serves on the Emanuel Medical Center Foundation. (Photo credit, Andie Petkus)
Jonathan Hill, M.D., Penny Hill, Shirley Newcomb, Mike Newcomb, D.O., Joseph Deng, M.D. and Tanja Epley, D.O.
The ECMO mobile transport unit
Carlos and Martha Pagan and Roya Quirk (pictured with husband Steven) shared their patient stories of being saved by ECMO.
Guests enjoying the event in the Legacy Emanuel Atrium.
Emanuel Medical Center Foundation is raising funds to help purchase four ECMO machines and ancillary equipment. Each machine costs approximately $105,000. “Legacy Emanuel is making significant investments to provide the highest-quality patient care for generations to come,” said Trent Green, president of Legacy Emanuel. “We are thankful for the strong community support of our ECMO Program.”
The evening featured personal stories from patients and their families. Roya Quirk reflected on how Legacy Emanuel’s mobile ECMO team saved her life. She had collapsed and blacked out while watching TV at home. When paramedics arrived, her breathing was shallow. “I am thankful the paramedics chose to drive me to Legacy Emanuel where the outstanding trauma team knew exactly how to treat me when a pulmonary embolism caused my heart to stop four times,” she said.
From Legacy:
Legacy Emanuel’s ECMO program is the busiest and most experienced center in the region. The program has been recognized as a distinguished leader in critical care. And, it is the only ECMO program in the Pacific Northwest to have an ECMO transport team. The six-person mobile critical care team is available at a moment’s notice for patient’s in immediate need of this life-saving therapy.
Nationally known for expertise in treating critical health conditions, Legacy Emanuel is a medical pacesetter. With advanced specialized services, which include a Level I Trauma Center, a Level I Burn Center, ECMO and the LifeFlight Network, it is a vital regional hub for trauma care.
To learn more about supporting any of Legacy Health’s hospitals or programs, call the Legacy Health Office of Philanthropy at 503-415-4700 or visit www.legacyhealth.org/giving.
Portland, OR. 280 people attended Dress for Success Oregon’s (DFSO) sixth-annual Empowerment Breakfast on October 3rd and helped raise over $65,000. The event at The Sentinel Hotel drew together business, civic, and social leaders supporting each other across racial, socioeconomic, and gender lines in the workplace. Sarah Redgrave, Ana Matos, Cara Rothe, Executive Director Shari Dunn, and Dr. Melody Rose were on the event panel. (Photo credit, Images by Brant)
Executive Director Shari Dunn looks on as DFSO Client, Cara Rothe, delivers her speech about her struggle and triumph.
Panelists Sarah Redgrave, Ana Matos, Cara Rothe, and Dr. Melody Rose discuss ways to help women overcome barriers in the workplace.
Dress for Success Oregon’s impact helps low-income women gain employment, wage progression, and economic independence. The event featured keynote speaker, Dr. Melody Rose, President of Marylhurst University, founder of the Center for Women’s Leadership, and a nationally recognized scholar and women and politics. All speakers, along with Vice President of Total Rewards and Family Support for KinderCare Education, Sarah Redgrave, participated in a panel discussion about how employers can help women overcome barriers to success in the workplace.
Volunteer Manager Lindsey Norlander presents Margo Passadore, Karen Morgan, and Becky Schindele with the Dress for Success Oregon Volunteer Award.
The Empowerment Breakfast audience listens to panelists Sarah Redgrave, Ana Matos, Dr. Melody Rose, and Shari Dunn.
From Dress for Success Oregon:
Dress for Success Oregon’s mission is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.
Dress for Success Oregon is the only workforce development organization in the state of Oregon that focuses exclusively on women and work. We are distinctive for helping women overcome barriers to employment, prepare for and keep their jobs, and advance in their careers toward the ultimate goal of self-sufficiency and economic equality.
Portland, OR. Fright Night might be fun for humans, but it can be scary for pets. Excited trick-or-treaters, tempting candy and spooky costumes can all pose threats to furry friends resulting in serious health issues. Doctors at DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital offer helpful advice for keeping pets safe during Halloween celebrations.
“Problems can arise for pets when their environments and routines change suddenly,” said Dr. Ladan Mohammad-Zadeh, DoveLewis critical care specialist. “Around Halloween, we’ve seen everything from gastrointestinal issues caused by pets ingesting dangerous items, injuries from costumes, and lost pets who escaped during trick-or-treating festivities.”
Animals in costume should be supervised at all times. Some pets may chew pieces of their outfit and ingest them, causing intestinal obstruction. Also, if a costumed pet escapes or is frightened away, the outfit could get caught on trees, fences or bushes, and pets can get hurt or stuck in the process. Keep an eye on your pet and snap a few photos like the ones below, then remove.
Pet owners can also avoid a trip to the emergency room by following these helpful tips:
Monitor candy and treats at all times, and keep them out of reach. Chocolate is highly toxic to pets, and other candy can cause significant gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, lollipop sticks, plastic parts and wrappers can cause intestinal obstruction and potentially rupture a pet’s intestines. Be sure to remind children that exposing pets to these treats can be dangerous.
Keep pets secured indoors and away from trick-or-treaters. Visitors can cause pets to feel that their territory is being invaded. Even typically calm dogs may get spooked by loud, shrill voices and strange costumes. Stress can result in unsafe reactions – like growling, biting or running away – or even serious health issues, such as vomiting and gastrointestinal problems. Secure pets in a secluded area of the house to help them remain calm and prevent them from darting outdoors. Do not take dogs trick-or-treating, and make sure they are always wearing proper identification and have an updated microchip. (Learn how to update your microchip information.)
When leaving the house, don’t leave candles lit – even if they’re inside pumpkins. When the house is occupied and candles are lit, be sure they are clearly out of reach and monitor pets at all times.
Keep decorative lights out of reach, especially from curious puppies and kittens.
One chewing session can be dangerous and even deadly.
If pets are injured or become ill due to any of these holiday hazards, owners should seek medical treatment for them immediately.
About DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital
DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital, established in 1973 and based in Portland, Oregon, is the only nonprofit, 24-hour emergency and intensive care unit in the region. With 45 years of service to the community, DoveLewis has treated more than 500,000 animals. DoveLewis also has seven donor-supported community programs that serve animals in need and the animal-loving community. For more information, please visit dovelewis.org.
Portland, OR. Nearly 20,000 charitable nonprofits across Oregon positively impact our communities every day, according to the Nonprofit Association of Oregon. Oregon ranks in the top half nationally in both volunteerism and average charitable contributions as a percentage of discretionary income at 4.6%. The power that individuals draw from giving to charity comes from a selfless act: it is often a deeply personal decision of the heart. That care of community, coupled with a hearty nonprofit sector in Oregon addressing a vast array of needs and missions, compels Oregonians to give and they give significantly. According to the 2015 Giving in Oregon report by the Oregon Community Foundation, more than $1.76 billion was donated by private individuals. The Foundation Center reported that for 2014, Oregon’s 878 foundations gave more than $371 million to nonprofit causes and projects.
Although charitable giving occurs throughout the year, the fourth quarter of each year is a critical fundraising time for nonprofits. As a result of the changes to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Nonprofit Association of Oregon wants to ensure Oregon nonprofits are at the forefront of people’s minds during this giving season.
While it is true that a charitable tax deduction is an incentive, it’s not the only reason Oregonians give. To showcase the fantastic work of Oregon’s nonprofits and to encourage Oregonians to give generously to support them, NAO created this short video –
The Nonprofit Association of Oregon wants to excite and remind Oregonians why it’s so important to give and support local nonprofits – whether it’s in La Grande, Prineville, Eugene, Coos Bay, Klamath Falls or in the Portland metro area. Leaders say, “Help us create a groundswell of support for our nonprofits by creating an online buzz and mobilize Oregonians to give to local nonprofits. Let’s remind our supporters how to Care Like An Oregonian!”
From The Nonprofit Association of Oregon:
Who we are
The Nonprofit Association of Oregon is the statewide nonprofit membership organization representing and supporting charitable nonprofits of all sizes, geographic locations and missions across Oregon.
NAO’s mission is to serve public benefit nonprofits by strengthening the collective voice, leadership, and capacity of nonprofits to enrich the lives of all Oregonians. NAO’s vision is that Oregon’s nonprofits are visible and valued as essential contributors to society. We are deeply invested in our core values: Collaboration, Equity and Inclusion, Excellence, Impact, Learning, Service and Stewardship.
What we do
NAO ensures a future in which Oregon nonprofits are visible and valued as essential contributors to our society. We strive to connect, improve and advance all nonprofits to help build a thriving and vital Oregon.
NAO serves the needs of the nonprofit sector through our work in advocacy, convening, disseminating Principles and Practices for Nonprofit Excellence, capacity building and thought leadership.
Nonprofit membership for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations
Affiliate membership for businesses that offer services and products to nonprofit organizations; as well as other 501(c) nonprofits, government agencies, individuals, etc.
Membership with NAO offers charitable nonprofits access to resources; attend high quality and relevant professional and volunteer development events at significantly reduced rates; network and learn with other nonprofits; connect with businesses who support nonprofits through cost-savings services and products; and amplify your voice with decision makers.
Affiliate membership with NAO offers businesses, other entities and individuals who support the work of nonprofits to connect with and be part of NAO’s network. This may include businesses who provide products and services to the nonprofit sector, organizations who support nonprofits as part of their community engagement work, or individuals who volunteer in service to the nonprofit sector. Business Affiliate Members at the Verified Level have the opportunity to potentially partner with NAO to offer cost-savings products and services to nonprofits and be part of NAO’s Referral Service.
What we offer
Learning & Professional Development: NAO offers a wide variety of professional and volunteer development learning opportunities for nonprofit leaders and their staff. NAO regularly offers sessions in the Portland area, Central Oregon, Southern Oregon and in a specific menu of rural locations across the state. Additional workshops, webinars, and online resources ensure that nonprofits all over Oregon have access to these valuable resources and opportunities. Learn more.
Referral Service: When nonprofits seek consulting services to meet challenges, support their growth, build effectiveness, and achieve excellence – whether it is a consultant to facilitate a board retreat on diversity, equity and inclusion, an interim executive placement, executive search, or other projects – NAO can match a nonprofit to a vetted and proven expert consultant or service provider. Consultants and service providers must be NAO Business Verified Affiliate Members. Learn more.
Cost Savings on Services and Products: NAO forges partnerships with NAO Business Verified Affiliate Members who want to support nonprofits by offering discounts on services/products. Nonprofits can save money by taking advantage of these cost-savings opportunities. Learn more.
Convenings: NAO provides opportunities for nonprofits and those that support the nonprofit sector to convene, network, discuss issues, offer solutions, and share best practices. NAO frequently partners with local, statewide and national networks, funders and research partners to convene these gatherings to create meaningful dialogue and discussion. Learn more.
Thought Leadership: NAO provides thought leadership at the overall nonprofit sector level about and for the nonprofit sector. We lead the effort to conduct, collate and share key research information about and for the nonprofit sector. We also ensure that Oregon’s nonprofits and the general public have relevant and timely information about changing ideas, opportunities and issues that affect nonprofits around the state.
Advocacy: NAO amplifies the nonprofit sector’s voice through public policy and advocacy work on behalf of Oregon’s nonprofit sector. NAO directly advocates on behalf of all nonprofits, as well as catalyzes important conversations with policy makers and among nonprofits. We work to raise the awareness of nonprofits’ work, issues and need for policy change. We educate and inform policy makers and others at the local, state and federal levels to ensure that nonprofits can continue to do the direct service work they do for the benefit of our communities across Oregon. Learn more.
Through these programs and services, NAO helps to connect, improve and advance the nonprofit sector across Oregon.
Join us and be part of an effective and connected network that is doing great things to improve and advance Oregon’s nonprofit sector!
Portland, OR. The First Annual Riverdale Golf Tournament was a hailed as a big success. 24 sponsors stepped forward to underwrite the tournament. There were nearly 100 volunteers and participants including teachers Michael Johnson, John Preacher, Laura Keldorf, and Mike Freeborn. The event on August 20th at Eastmoreland Golf Course raised approximately $20,000, which far exceeded goals and expectations. All proceeds will support Riverdale Athletics and pay for things like coaching, buses, equipment & supplies, fees.
Riverdale School District Athletic Director Rob Pridemore and Riverdale parent & high school coach Mark Scarlett are joined by Bryan Justrom and Nels Ericson
Freeman Motor Co. displays a Lotus. Riverdale Golf Tournament supporters include Jennifer Rabb, Amber Moore, Kirsten Griffith, Suzi Maddocks, and Sara Conte.
Tournament winners include Jeff O’Neill, John Peterson, Tommy O’Neill, and Gary Logsdon.
Winners of Best Attire, outfitted partially by Corporate Sponsor Taylor Metals, include Peggy Peterson, Patty Hopkins, Susan Henderson and Molly Peters.
21 silent auction items generate $7,000. Current and former Riverdale HS athletes volunteer at the event.
Bernice Cannistraci with American Family Insurance, one of the event sponsors.
From Riverdale:
Our simple but powerful goal is to produce students who know how to use their minds well.
We ask ourselves: How can we encourage students, as they engage in their learning, to embrace challenge and complexity, take initiative, consider other perspectives, speculate and experiment, innovate and be bold? It is important that we help them grow academically, psychologically and emotionally to be better prepared to continue their education in the future.
Located in the Portland metropolitan area, Riverdale offers a unique PreK-12 educational environment that rivals local private schools. Consider it the best aspects of independent schooling in a small, intimate public school setting. In addition to the students from our district, we also welcome students from the surrounding communities through transfer and tuition options.
Portland, OR. The Street Trust hosted its annual Alice Awards, (formerly the Alice B. Toeclips Awards) to recognize individuals and organizations that have made a difference in active transportation. Multnomah County Commissioner Jessica Vega Pederson posed with winner Leah Benson and Executive Director at The Street Trust, Jillian Detweiler. Leah Benson is the founder and owner of Gladys Bikes, a gender-inclusive bike shop in Portland.
William Henderson was also honored at the celebration at Castaway Portland on September 28th. He’s the co-founder of Ride Report, a Portland-based company helping cities improve biking with crowd-sourced data and maps.
Multnomah County Commissioner Jessica Vega Pederson, Jillian Detweiler, Executive Director at The Street Trust, and William Henderson, Co-Founder of Ride Report
“Leah and William are leaders making cycling more inclusive, accessible and safe. Their work demonstrates that transportation alternatives are good for business,” says Jillian Detweiler, Executive Director at The Street Trust.
The event brings together community members, transportation activists, and local leaders to celebrate the work done to make the northwest the best region to walk, bike and ride transit.
From The Street Trust:
The Street Trust ® is a non-profit membership organization working to promote and improve public transit, walking and bicycling conditions in Oregon. Since 1990, The Street Trust has worked in partnership with citizens, businesses, community groups, government agencies, and elected officials to create communities where people can meet their daily transportation needs through active transportation.
The Street Trust 618 NW Glisan Street, #401 Portland, Oregon 97209 (503) 226-0676 www.thestreettrust.org
Portland, OR. The Edwards Center’s Annual Luncheon Celebrate Success drew 400 guests to the Multnomah Athletic Club. The benefit on October 11th raised Over $350,000 to help enhance the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. Eva Norland posed with participants Tuanne Deklotz and Marla Kleinheinz. Behind them, stood staffer Cassie Cretian. The nonprofit offers training, education, employment, housing and social opportunities. (Photo credit, Andie Petkus)
Pat Reser, Reser’s Fine Foods and her husband Bill Westphal. Pat was the Keynote speaker for the event.
New Executive Director, Allen Cress, with founder Dr. Jean Edwards and Art Pascuzzi, Milwaukee Crane
Founder, Dr. Jean Edwards, Jean Uzelac and sister, Marlene Burns
Ann Perrins, Board Member and family guardian to sister Dee Yerke with Allen Cress, Executive Director, Edwards Center
Elizabeth Austin, Founder EC Dr. Jean Edwards and Sean Kuni, Wayne D. Kuni & Joan E. Kuni Foundation
David Butler with wife, Michelle Neiss Butler and Richard and Mary Norgart, who have a sister, Sue, in the program.
Craig and Linda Hannum offered a $100,000 matching grant to honor their daughter Amy, who benefits from the Edwards Center program.
From the Edwards Center:
We live every day in support of these core values
Excellence
Providing the best to people with developmental disabilities.
Individuality
Encouraging decision-making and expression of choice.
Ability
Emphasizing an optimistic and compassionate attitude in supporting participants as they overcome challenges.
Respect
Facilitating dignity and respect for all individuals through personal and environmental safety, cleanliness and privacy.
Productivity
Encouraging productiveness and engagement, whether through employment, artistic expression, socializing or other activities.
Integration
Fostering and creating opportunities for participating in their communities with people without disabilities.
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