Giving Back Guide

Giving Back Guide How Area Nonprofits Make a Difference

Spring 2022 A Special Publication of the Siuslaw News

2 | Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits

Western Lane Community Foundation MISSION STATEMENT To improve life in Western Lane County through effective philanthropy

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estern Lane Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization chartered in 1974 for the purpose of receiving, administering and distributing charitable funds for the benefit of residents in western Lane County, Ore. Resources come from individuals, businesses and other organizations. WLCF selects qualified recipients for funding, based on need, in the form of grants, scholarships and donations for specific projects.

The area served by the foundation is Florence, Mapleton, Dunes City and Deadwood, Ore.

benefit generations to come.

Anyone seeking a permanent channel for philanthropic giving that is administered competently and responsibly.

Anyone who wants to perpetuate the support of an institution in Lane County.

Anyone who wants to experience the joy and satisfaction of giving.

QUICK FACTS: Established: 1973 Tax status: WLCF is classified as “tax exempt” under section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Assets: $12.3 million, comprising DONATION more than 91 permanent funds OPPORTUNITIES: Grants and scholarships: Who should create a community $167,000 awarded in 2021 legacy?

Anyone interested in improving CONTACT US: the quality of life in western Lane Western Lane County now and in the future.

Community Foundation Anyone who has benefited fi541-997-1274 | wlcfonline.org nancially or who values living in PO Box 1589, Florence, OR 97439 this part of our state and wants to wlcf@wlcfonline.org

COMMUNITY PEOPLE HELPING COMMUNITY PEOPLE

Western Lane Community Foundation — Board of Directors — Gayle Vinchesi, Executive Director Sandy Kuhlman, President Cindy Forsythe Robert Orr, Vice President Tim Moffett Bonnie Rose Allen, Treasurer Karen Skulley, Susan Tive Sally Wantz, Secretary Jim Waterman

Western Lane Community Foundation With over $12 million in managed funds, WLCF helps the people of western Lane County. If you are interested in creating a a community legacy, visit us at wlcfonline.org or email us at wlcf@wlcfonline.org

Community Grants

Charitable Gifts & Remainder Trusts

Scholarship Funds

Endowments

Western Lane Community Founda�on, founded in 1974, is a community trust, private non-profit organiza�on The Founda�on's mission is to improve life throughout Western Lane County by encouraging and maintaining philanthropic ac�vity. WLCF focuses its giving in four major areas: culture, medicine and science, educa�on, and social and civic services.

WLCF also manages funds designated for use by other nonprofit organiza�ons.

To learn more please contact us.

Call: our office # 997-1274 Write: P.O. Box 1589 Florence, OR 97439 email: wlcf@wlcfonline.org

Community People Helping Community People

Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits | 3

Giving Back & Making A Difference in the Siuslaw Region Dear Readers,

have seen increases in demand.

As you look through this guide, you may find an organization or We are extremely fortunate in Florence to have such a wide variety cause that will benefit from your of nonprofit organizations that help time or resources that are critical at this time. If you choose to donate or raise the quality of life in our wonderful community. Many community volunteer, you will be helping build a better community, enriching your members have increasingly turned to our local nonprofits for help — to life and the lives of others. provide food, to care for our elderly and support the distressed.

Thank you. From all of us.

These organizations are an important part of what makes our community great and resilient. But like many businesses in the private sector, they have been hit hard these Jenna Bartlett past two years. Nearly all have seen Publisher, Siuslaw News revenues drop, while their services

The Soup Brigade

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he Good Deed Project 501c3 was established by Cindy Wobbe, Executive Director, in memory of Glenna Woodbury and provides assistance in the following areas: The Soup Brigade: prepares and delivers nutrition rich soup to home-bound, health compromised individuals. Currently serving 50+ households 3x/week, free of charge. Since beginning in March 2020, we have delivered over 20,000 bowls of soup.

Glenna Woodbury Memorial Fund: Assistance with accessing/ coordinating care and covering expenses related to treatment of catastrophic illness/injury.

First Impressions Award: Or-

thodontia and related services for qualifying students in Siuslaw and Mapleton school districts.

Restorative dental services, to include dentures and implants, for adults demonstrating stable recovery from addiction.

Community Care: As needed assistance to anyone in the Florence and Mapleton community facing an extraordinary need not covered by insurance or other agencies.

4 | Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits

FACE — Florence Arts, Culture & Entertainment MISSION STATEMENT: To enrich lives, advance culture, entertain audiences and raise funds for capital improvements and sustained maintenance at the Florence Events Center

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ransforming over the past performing arts groups to help year, FACE (Florence Arts, them rent the facility.

Culture & Entertainment) has emerged to support the fine arts in ANNUAL EVENTS: the Florence area, and especially at Winter Music Festival, Florence the Florence Events Center.

Festival of Books, Indoor Yard Sale, and Gallery events including GOALS: art shows and the Wallflowers & Our purpose is to enrich lives, Wine art classes. advance culture, entertain audiences, and raise funds for capiCALL FOR VOLUNTEERS: tal improvements and sustained Join us and put on a happy FACE! maintenance to keep the fabulous We’re looking for more leaders, Florence Events Center fabulous doers, organizers, and supporters —and to provide grants to local for the Florence Events Center and

those who use it.

This includes likeminded people to share their gifts of time, talent and funding in supporting the coast’s best venue for arts, culture & entertainment. If you are former or renewing member of the old Friends of the Florence Events Center, please join us!

DONATION OPPORTUNITIES: You can join FACE for just $25 per year, attend our fun and productive meetings, join an event

CONTACT US: — FACE — Florence Events Center 715 Quince St. Florence, OR 97439 541-997-1994 | eventcenter.org florencearts.org

FACE IS THE PLACE -- TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Clockwise: Crow Kids dance performances, Winter Music Festival, and author Bob Serra at Florence Festival of Books.

Our name and logo describe our focus: Arts, Culture, & Entertainment in Florence.

That’s a tall order for an independent nonprofit 501c3. But FACE has a big heart and a big mission: to support Florence’s Arts, Culture & Entertainment at the Florence Events Center (FEC).

We also provide performance grants to local nonprofit organizations: Siuslaw Schools Bands and Choirs, Last Resort Players, C.R.O.W., and others.

That means FACE has a volunteer role for everyone!

Arts: Do you enjoy Gallery Shows and original artwork? Join

With the monetary and in-kind support of our generous local sponsors, and the hard work of our volunteers, we make a daily difference in our community.

Culture: Are you an avid reader? The Florence Festival of

JOIN US! You can help FACE help make it all happen. Annual memberships for individuals and businesses are available any time of year. Financial contributions are deeply appreciated and are tax-deductible. And you’re always welcome at our monthly FACE meetings at 3:00 PM, on the last Tuesday of each month.

At the FEC, naturally. With home baked cookies provided, of course!

the Gallery Committee and help stage themed shows, receptions, and talks with artists in Galleries One and Five. Multiple shows are hung each year, often with a theme such as “For the Love of Animals,” “Odd’umns” (Autumn ideas), and “Fresh Impressions,” showcasing the art of area students.

Books occurs every fall, when dozens of authors bring their works to the FEC flat floor for two days of signings, discussions, and dialogues with their readers and each other. This is a rare opportunity to get a signed first edition -- perhaps from someone in your own neighborhood!

We look forward to seeing you at the Florence Events Center!

Entertainment: Perhaps you have a passion for live music. FACE provides many performance events in a typical year. Our largest is the Winter Music Festival, which came back with a flourish in January 2022. World class pop, bluegrass, folk and blues artists converged in Florence for a weekend of performances, workshops, jams, and just plain old good times. And we’re already planning for 2023.

FACE is a local, independent 501c3 nonprofit in support of the FEC Financial gifts in support of our work are fully tax-deductible!

Learn More

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director’s committee, volunteer oni our grants committee, serve on ouri fundraising committee, or be partp of our speakers bureau to tell oth-e i ers about the great work of FACE p in our community. You can alsos sponsor our many public events. o

715 Quince Street • Florence OR 97439 541-991-8811 | FlorenceArts.org

a h i s i i s

Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits | 5

Children’s Repertory of Oregon Workshops

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MISSION STATEMENT — The arts really do matter

ROW (Children’s Repertory of Oregon Workshops) is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to building character, providing safe and constructive educational activities and shaping responsible young adults by providing youth with professional caliber performing arts opportunities.

Serving Florence, Mapleton and beyond, CROW strives to help participants tap into their individual creative potential in surprising new ways, and to improve basic singing, dancing, acting and communication skills.

• Our kids and volunteers are

taught to work as an ensemble and to think on their feet.

• Our classes and productions provide real life skills that can assist students in whatever later life path they may choose.

• We teach kids to have a greater sense of confidence and self esteem, as well as building inter-personal communication skills and an understanding that anything is possible with enough hard work, focus and dedication.

• We believe in the power of community, and seek to involve participants of all ages in an effort to bridge generations through the arts.

• We give back to our com- available on our website. Please munity, whenever and however let us know how you can help we can.

CROW thrive.

2022 GOALS: DONATION To rebuild and regrow! We OPPORTUNITIES: look forward to a future of Support us online at www. classes, summer camps, pro- crowkids.com/donate or mail ductions, and more for the chil- to PO Box 184. dren and families of our region.

We desperately need ongoing donations to operate, since we ANNUAL EVENTS: provide so many free and lowMainstage musicals, Scare- cost opportunities for children.

CONTACT US: CROW Haunted Maze, Holly Thank you, donors! We are CROW Center for Performing Jolly Follies, Summer Theatre very grateful for the amazing Arts, 3120 Highway 101 Camps and more! support of those who know PO Box 184, Florence OR that “The Arts Really Do Mat97439 GET INVOLVED: ter!”

541-999-8641 | crowkids.com A Volunteer Interest Form is crowtheatrekids@yahoo.com

THE ARTS REALLY DO MATTER!

Through our enriched, professional-caliber program, our students become engaged in community. They grow into well-rounded, contributing members of society. The arts teach empathy, confidence, communication, teamwork, dedication, and so much more!

What greater gift is there, than to support Florence’s future? We are so proud of our amazing CR.O.W. kids!

To Donate: C.R.O.W. - PO Box 184, Florence, OR 97439 ww.crowkids.com (541) 999-8641 C.R.O.W. is a 501c3 non-profit organization

6 | Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits

Rods ‘N’ Rhodies, Inc. Transportation Solutions MISSION STATEMENT To support community projects and provide automotive assistance to those in need donation, donate your unused vehicle, join the board or come to the car show.

ANNUAL EVENT: The Rods ‘N’ Rhodies Car Show and Benefit brings together more than a hundred classic of hot rods and cool music. cars for a show-and-shine in Historic Old Town Florence CONTACT US: GET INVOLVED: each September. The show feaRods ‘N’ Rhodies, Inc. How can you help? Give tures a pre-show stand-around 541-999-6513 where you live!

— an early sample of the cars www.rodsnrhodies.org Volunteer, make a monetary to come — and a weekend rodsnrhodies@gmail.com

Rods ‘N’ Rhodies Board of Directors

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ods ‘N’ Rhodies, Inc.’s mission is to not only organize a great car show but to raise funds for the members of our community who struggle to make ends meet with support for transportation related issues, like oil changes, registration and new tires.

Gary Cargil, President Ross Kroenert, Vice President Jenna Bartlett, Secretary Cal Applebee, Member Pam Erickson, Member George Henry, Member Susan Johnson, Member

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ost of us go through day to day activities without even thinking about how we will get to where we want to go. We have the means of transportation that is reliable and comfortable. However, within our community, there are those who struggle to make ends meet and don’t have that luxury. Many families who do own transportation may not have the means to properly maintain the vehicle and keep focus on safety and reliability because of everyday activities such as work, food, clothing, housing and even school activities that take precedence. That means that transportation for them may simply be a luxury.

For more information, please contact Gary Cargill, President (541) 999-6513 florencerodsnrhodies@gmail.com

28th Annual Rhody Days Show & Shine May 2022 Rods ‘N Rhodies TOP HOT RODS & CLASSIC CARS TO SHINE September 2022

Rods ‘N Rhodies, Inc. & Transportation Solutions Program, a Oregon Nonprofit 501 (c) (3) organization was formed in November of 2018, is an organization that would like to be part of the solution by providing safe and reliable transportation for those families who work, go to school and even volunteer in our community.

How can you help?

Give Where You Live!

• Volunteer • Make a Donation • Join the Board • Come to the Car Shows

rodsnrhodies.org

Donating your vehicle to Rods ‘N Rhodies, Inc. is a great way to support our work.

Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits | 7

How to include giving in your estate plan

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haritable giving is the lifeblood of many nonprofit organizations. The generosity of donors helps charities meet their missions and provide vital services to people facing disease, financial hardship and other situations they cannot overcome on their own.

Many donors make sacrifices to support their favorite causes and charities. Forgoing certain luxuries so money can be donated to charity illustrates the selfness nature of charitable giving, which can even continue after death.

Estate planning is a complicated process that details exactly how a person wants their assets divvied up after death. But an estate plan also can go into effect while individuals are still alive.

Each year, millions of people across the globe choose to include charitable giving in their estate plans, and that can benefit charities and donors.

The following are a handful of Consider a the many ways charitable men charitable rollover and women can incorporate giv- The Internal Revenue Service ing into their estate plans. notes that individuals with an IRA, SEP IRA, Simple IRA, or reBequest giving in a will tirement plan account generally or living trust must begin withdrawing money Perhaps the most widely known from these accounts when they way to include charitable giving reach age 72. These withdrawin an estate plan is to bequeath als are called required minimum money in a will or living will. distributions and they are conThe Community Foundation Al- sidered taxable income. liance notes that bequests typi- However, individuals who want cally allow donors to define how to give to charity can opt for a their donations will be spent or Qualified Charitable Distribuutilized. That benefits charita- tion, or QCD. A QCD counts toble organizations, but surviving ward the minimum distribution family members also can benefit from retirement accounts and from such arrangements. individuals will not be taxed on According to LawDepot.com, the money they donate to chariindividuals may be able to low- ty. That’s a win-win for charities er the estate taxes on their es- and individuals 72 and over who tates at their time of death if they do not need to withdraw money bequeath money to an eligible from their IRAs to meet daily charitable organization in their living expenses. wills.

The effects of volunteering on volunteers’ well-being

A recent analysis examining the potential correlation between volunteering and well-being found that volunteering is associated with a higher well-being as well as a positive change in well-being.

Authors of the study, which was published in the Journal of Happiness Studies in March 2020, acknowledged that evidence pertaining to the correlation between volunteering

and well-being has accumulated gradually in recent years, though they feel their study offers the most realistic assessment to date in regard to that link.

That’s good news for volunteers, many of whom may be quick to point out that they get as much as they give when volunteering.

Recent analyses support that notion and may compel

Donate via a charitable remainder trust A charitable remainder trust, or CRT, allows individuals to set up a trust that benefits both a designated beneficiary and a charity or charities of their choosing.

When a CRT is set up, a beneficiary will receive annual payments from the trust until it terminates, at which time the remaining funds in the trust are donated to charity.

The philanthropy experts at Fidelity Charitable note that individuals can name themselves as the beneficiaries of the trust, which ensures they will have an income during retirement and that their favorite charities will be supported when the trust expires.

Individuals who want to make charitable giving part of their estate plan can do so in various ways.

millions more to make time to give back through volunteering.

Though more studies are needed, the Cleveland Clinic notes that some of the health benefits often associated with volunteering include lower blood pressure, increased self-esteem, lower levels of depression and stress, and greater satisfaction with life.

8 | Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits

*PROSTATE *PROSTATECANCER CANCERSPOKEN SPOKENHERE HERE ** Florence, Florence, Oregon Oregon

UsUsTOO TOOFlorence Florence

Prostate ProstateCancer CancerEducation/Support Education/Support onon the the Oregon Oregon Coast Coast www.ustoofl www.ustoofl orence.org orence.org BOB BOB HORNEY, HORNEY, CHAPTER CHAPTER LEADER/FACILITATOR LEADER/FACILITATOR BOTH BOTH MEETINGS MEETINGS AREARE CURRENTLY CURRENTLY ON ON HOLD. HOLD. WATCH WATCH SIUSLAW SIUSLAW NEWS NEWS FORFOR RESUMPTION RESUMPTION

• Tuesday • Tuesday Evening Evening Group Group (2nd(2nd Tuesday) Tuesday) 5-7 p.m.

5-7 p.m.

- Ichiban - Ichiban Chinese/Japanese Chinese/Japanese Restaurant Restaurant Urologist Urologist Dr. Bryan Dr. Bryan Mehlhaff Mehlhaff attends. attends.

• Tuesday • Tuesday Lunch Lunch Group Group (3rd(3rd Tuesday) Tuesday)

12 noon 12 noon – 1:00 – 1:00 p.m. p.m.

– Ichiban – Ichiban Chinese/Japanese Chinese/Japanese Restaurant Restaurant Urologist Urologist Dr. Roger Dr. Roger McKimmy McKimmy attends. attends.

Contact Contact BobBob for more for more information: information: (C) (C) 541-999-4239 541-999-4239 maribob@oregonfast.net maribob@oregonfast.net • Check • Check out our out Personal our Personal Prostate Prostate Cancer Cancer Journeys, Journeys, slideshows slideshows and and otherother information information on our on website. our website.

• A prostate • A prostate cancer cancer diagnosis diagnosis is not is needed not needed to attend. to attend.

• Spouses/family • Spouses/family members members are encouraged are encouraged to attend. to attend.

• Bring • Bring questions/records questions/records - get-answers get answers • Someone • Someone to talk to talk to - who to - who understands. understands.

Donations Donations Stay Stay Local Local Us Us TOO TOO Florence Florence 924924 Island Island Drive Drive South South Florence, Florence, OROR 97439 97439

*SEPTEMBER* *SEPTEMBER* PROSTATE PROSTATE CANCER CANCER AWARENESS AWARENESS MONTH MONTH

Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits | 9

Here is our new Logo to go with ZERO and US TOO joining forces. Us TOO will continue to manage the Support Groups while ZERO (The End of Prostate Cancer) brings a wealth of Prostate Cancer information. Combined, this new organization presents the ultimate in Prostate Cancer Support/Information.

If you are unfamiliar with ZERO – The End of Prostate Cancer, go to: zerocancer.org to check it out. You will be amazed at the amount of recorded videos, webinars, podcasts and other information available at your fingertips.

Due to this change, the www.ustooflorence.org website is undergoing revisions/updates. Watch the Siuslaw News for completion.

In the meantime, you can always reach Bob Horney at 541-999-4239 or maribob@oregonfast.net with your Prostate Cancer questions/concerns.

Many men/spouses have been helped with a single phone call to Bob.

10 | Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits

Siuslaw Outreach Services — SOS

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iuslaw Outreach Services (SOS) is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization providing a wide range of services, including domestic violence services, to those experiencing domestic violence, sexual violence, human trafficking, homelessness, risk of homelessness, and other forms of crisis. In short, we save and improve lives daily for those at the highest levels of risk.

This agency in Florence, Ore., has served those in crisis residing in western Lane County since 1986.

Siuslaw Outreach Services is dependent on the generous financial gifts of our faithful supporters and we invite you to join them in making all our programs and domestic violence services available to so many hundreds of at-risk individuals every year.

Very simply, our mission is to provide compassionate, respectful, and confidential support to people in need.

Victims of domestic violence, sexual violence, human trafficking, and homelessness have been turning to Siuslaw Out-

reach Services since 1986 for compassionate, understanding care, and the ability to escape circumstances while building a successful new life.

When you support Siuslaw Outreach Services with your time, talents and finances, YOU are the unseen hero behind the agency that provides domestic violence help, helps restore victims of sexual abuse, and assists those on the edge of homelessness. Your support provides a safe house for women, housing for kids in need, utility vouchers, clothing for every family member, counseling, and resources to get a new start on life.

People can donate goods such as youth and adult clothing, diapers and hygiene products, tarps, tents, and sleeping bags, as well as make monetary donations.

CONTACT US: Siuslaw Outreach Services 1576 West 12th St., Florence OR 97438 Office: 541-997-2816 Emergency Line: 541-997-4444 florencesos.org

How helping others helps you

Few paths to positive personal growth are more noble than resolving to help others through increased acts of generosity and kindness.

According to Psychology Today, doing good for others, no matter how big or small the deed, feels good but also provides reciprocal benefits. The link between volunteering and lower rates of depression has been well-documented, and there is neural evidence from MRI studies suggesting a link between being generous and signs of happiness in the brain.

The following are several ways to improve oneself by being more mindful of others.

• Be aware of social issues. Read your local newspaper to stay up-to-date on the pulse of your community as well as the world. Educate yourself about current issues that are affecting people from all walks of life. Understanding the needs or plights of others may boost your willingness to get involved with nonprofit organizations. It also may make you more empathetic and compassionate toward other people.

• Volunteer at a charity. Find a charita-

ble group with which you can volunteer your time. This is a great way to support a cause you believe in and makes it possible for you to collaborate with others who are like-minded, potentially helping you make new friends.

• Learn a new language. North America is a melting pot that’s home to people from many different parts of the world. Learning a new language may facilitate interactions with fellow community members who might not speak English as a first language.

• Help someone you know. It’s commendable to want to assist a charity or a global cause, but what about people close to you who may need a boost? Whether you’re lugging boxes to help a friend move or babysitting a niece or nephew so their parents can enjoy a much-needed night out, when you help someone, those good deeds will return to you in time.

When making plans, people should consider goals that involve helping others.

While this assistance can benefit the people who are on the receiving end of the care and attention, those who are giving of themselves also reap considerable rewards.

WESTERN LANE FIRE AND EMS AUTHORITY Our Mission is to provide compassionate, respectful, and confidential support to people in need.

Are you interested in making a difference in the life of someone in crisis? If so, we need you. We have a variety of opportunities for you to share your time and talents. You can be of great service for those seeking help for domestic violence.

Our volunteers are amazing! Maybe you’d like to be one of them. Hardworking, compassionate, discreet, and dedicated to supporting SOS’s work in providing help for victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and unplanned homelessness. Without our volunteers, we could never do all that we do for our many and varied clientele. www.florencesos.org

Beginning July 1, 2022 opera�ons personnel from Western Lane Ambulance District and Siuslaw Valley Fire & Rescue will join together within the Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority to provide our ci�zens and visitors to western Lane County with excep�onal and cost-effec�ve life and property saving emergency responses. Sharing people and resources will allows us to con�nue providing advanced life support, rescue, ambulance transport, fire suppression, and fire preven�on services as we have proudly done for many years. In fact, we work so closely together now that this represents a change in our name only. The combined mission and vision does not change who we are, what we do, or how we do it. We remain here to help you! Visit www.wlfea.org for more informa�on.

Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits |11

Soroptimist International of Florence MISSION STATEMENT Our mission is to improve the lives of women and girls in our local community and throughout the world CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS: We all have unique gifts to share with the communities who need it most. By empowering women and girls through access to education and training, the lives of individuals, families and whole communities can be improved.

Through Soroptimist, you join a global movement of volunteers, partners, fundraisers and donors who believe in the power of women and girls to change the world.

al Dream Programs. Your generosity empowers women and girls throughout the world to achieve their dreams of a better life.

We provide a variety of giving options to help you make SoropDONATION timist your cause of choice! These OPPORTUNITIES: include monthly giving, honor & Because of the unique mem- memorial gifts and planned givbership structure of Soroptimist, ing. while dues pay for member services, governance and adminisCONTACT US: tration, your charitable contribuSoroptimist tions are used for fundraising and International of Florence program expenses.

PO Box 1209, Consider contributing today to Florence, OR 97439 help fund our life-changing glob- soroptimist.florence@gmail.com The Soroptimists host the annual Community Christmas Basket Project each December, providing winter food to hundreds of families.

12 | Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits

Florence Habitat for Humanity

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eeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.

At Florence Habitat for Humanity, we build. We build because we believe that everyone, everywhere should have a healthy, affordable place to call home. When a family helps build or improve a place they can call home, they are also building a better community and a better life for themselves.

Habitat’s programs provide families a hand-up, not a hand out. We partner with families who need a safe, affordable place to live. Each family has their own story and the needs vary with each partnership. We work with each family in depth to help them be successful, long term homeowners.

Our volunteers are key in helping us build affordable homes. We are always looking for volunteers with diverse skill sets. Currently, we have a high demand for volunteers to help with our restore or with construction experience Donations help Florence families in need of a decent place build long-term financial security. With a stable home, families have more opportunities.

Donations also help with the Florence Habitat Restore, a discount home improvement store that sells quality new and gently used furniture, appliances, building materials, home decor and more.

Florence Habitat for Humanity 2004 Highway 101 | 541-902-9227 www.florencehabitat.org

Helping Hands Coalition

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stablished in May 2011, Helping Hands is an all-volunteer community organization dedicated to providing services, hot lunches and a daytime center for those in need and others with emergency needs. Our small but friendly facility provides warmth, comfort and basic services for those in our community. We provide a place where visitors can find assistance and direction to other community resources that are best suited to addressing specific needs.

Our guests are treated with courtesy and dignity by our caring staff of volunteers.

with a pancake breakfast on April 9, at 4590 Highway 101 in the main dining hall of the church. In addition, we have BBQs planned every third Saturday.

We will also work toward building our board, adding committees and increasing volunteers. To volunteer or donate, call 541-997-5057.

OUR LEADERSHIP: • Vice President: Glen Stewart • Treasurer: Teresa Lofy • Volunteer Coordinator: Dan Lofy

CONTACT US: Helping Hands Coalition 2022 GOALS: 4590 Highway 101, inside the church We’ve started to serve hot meals PO Box 1296 Florence, OR 97439 and having people sit down for lunch 541-997-5057 again. helpinghandsflorence.org We will kick off our fundraising helpinghands1269@gmail.com

Helping Hands Coalition provides direct and practical help as well as sack lunches on days other groups are not providing food. Vouchers for laundry, warm clothing, etc., a place to just catch their breath and so much more! The center treats all with respect, dignity and HELPING HANDS COALITION compassion, AND WITHOUT 4590 HIGHWAY 101, DISCRIMINATION OR FLORENCE LOCATED AT THE COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH JUDGEMENT OF ANY KIND. Call 541-997-5057 to Volunteer helpinghandsflorence.org

11:00 am – 1:00 pm for donations Lunch is 12pm-1pm

Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits |13

Siuslaw Pioneer Museum The Siuslaw Pioneer Museum presents and preserves the local history of Florence and the Siuslaw Region.

Come experience it.

Come get a taste of life as it was more than 150 years ago.

When you visit the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum in Florence you will be transported through time by a diversity of exhibits showing slices of life from before white settlers made their way to the Siuslaw Region up to life in the 1950s. From an authentic dug-out canoe, and first-people’s tools and apparel, to household items of pioneer homesteaders; from early logging and fishing implements to the control panel once used by the drawbridge operator; and one of the first telephone switchboards.

MISSION STATEMENT — Preserving local history. Come be a part of it!

Learn about the hardscrabble life of those who started the logging and fishing industries around Florence in the mid- to late1800s and see examples of the delicate side of life through the place settings and handiwork of lace and quiltmakers.

Adults (age 14 and over) can enter the museum for $5. The museum offers free admission to children 13 and

under (if accompanied by adult) and all museum members.

When you join the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum you help preserve and present the rich and diverse history of the Siuslaw Region for schoolchildren, academic researchers, vacationing families, and our community.

The Siuslaw Pioneer Museum Association, Inc. is an Oregon nonprof-

it 501c3 corporation and responsible for providing the funding to operate the museum. Our expenses do not include any paid staff. All funds cover our basic operational expenses such as utilities, insurance, and office materials such as computers and copiers for use by researchers.

Our income comes primarily from membership dues, admissions, and donations. We also have a little bookstore/gift shop. On occasion, we receive grants that we have applied for.

CONTACT US: Siuslaw Pioneer Museum 278 Maple St., PO Box 2637 Florence OR 97439 541-997-7884 www.siuslawpioneermuseum.com

We made it! Thank you, Florence! $20,000 raised, $20,000 matched, $40,000 in grants received!

$80K RAISED IN 90 DAYS! FIRE SUPRESSION SYSTEM BEING INSTALLED! Thanks to community support, the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum has nearly 88,000 reasons to celebrate!

We set a three-month, $88,000 goal for a fire suppression system for both museum buildings and the porch area. We feared what a fire would do to the area’s shared story and were compelled to preserve the community’s treasure trove of history. And the community answered!

This incredible investment in the museum’s safety and preserva�on of priceless and irreplaceable ar�facts protects our shared iden�ty, this historic building, items brought across the Oregon and Applegate Trails, prized pieces from local first na�ons peoples, industry and household implements from as far back as the 1800s, and archives of directories, yearbooks, and newspapers.

The museum’s board and volunteers say “thank you!”

The Siuslaw Pioneer Museum presents and preserves the local history of Florence and the Siuslaw Region. Come get a taste of life as it was more than 150 years ago!

When you visit the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum in Florence you will be transported through �me by a diversity of exhibits showing slices of life from before white se�lers made their way to the Siuslaw Region up to life in the 1950s. Come see us soon and call ahead for group tours.

Special thanks go to…

• The Mehlum, Ellingson, and Iholts families with Siuslaw Bank Founda�on for their $20,000 private matching grant • Every $10, $50, $100, and $500 donor who helped us reach the $23,000 in contribu�ons to meet the match

• A personal contribu�on of $5,000, and a pledge of a matching amount, from Bob and Kay King • An Oregon Heritage grant of $20,000 (Thank you Cindy Gentry) • A Bonneville Power Administra�on grant of $10,000 (Thank you, Harry Zinn and Be�na Hannigan) • A Ford Founda�on grant of $10,000 (Thank you Del Phelps) • A Florence Kiwanis Club grant of $10,000 (Thank you Lonnie Iholts) • Chris�na Voogd for a $2800 direct contribu�on Due to delays and increases in ini�al costs since accep�ng bids, the campaign is about $10,000 short of its actual costs.

That’s why we are asking the community’s investment to push us over the top in our effort to raise that final total. Please help protect and preserve the Siuslaw Region’s deep and priceless history today—online at SiuslawPioneerMuseum.org, by mailing a check to the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum, PO Box 2637, Florence 97439, or by dropping off a financial gi� at the museum, 278 Maple St. Contribu�ons of $20 or more come with annual passes to the museum.

To join, support, or plan a group tour, contact us today: 278 Maple St. | 541-997-7884 SiuslawPioneerMuseum.com

14 | Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits

Rotary Club of Florence

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MISSION STATEMENT — Rotary Opens Opportunities

otary provides service to • Rotary Auction others, promotes integrity • Cool at The Coast Golf Tourand advances world understand- nament ing, goodwill and peace through our fellowship of business, proSCHOLARSHIPS: fessional and community leaders. Youth play an important part in Rotary. They are our future AREAS OF SERVICE: leaders and will help shape the The work of Rotary begins in way the world works. The Florthe community, and every com- ence Rotary Club is proud to supmunity has its own unique needs port the youth in our community and concerns. While we serve in through scholarships that help countless ways, we’ve focused our them achieve their goals. efforts in six key areas to maxi- In Mapleton School District, mize impact: students can apply for the Flor1. Peace and Conflict Preven- ence Rotary Mapleton Scholartion/Resolution ship, Florence Rotary Club Com2. Disease Prevention and munity Service Scholarships and Treatment the Florence Rotary Club Arts 3. Water and Sanitation Scholarship.

4. Maternal and Child Health In Siuslaw School District, stu5. Basic Education and Literacy dents can apply for the Found6. Economic and Community ers /Arthur Coit Past Presidents’ Development Scholarships Florence Rotary President’s Scholarships, Florence ANNUAL FUNDRAISERS: Rotary Club Community Ser-

vice Scholarships, Sneddon Family Scholarship, Rotary Vocational/Technical Scholarship and the Florence Rotary Club Arts Scholarship.

Learn more at www.theflorencerotary.org/scholarships.php.

THE FOUR-WAY TEST: Rotarians are concerned with promoting high ethical standards in their professional lives. One of the world’s most widely printed and quoted statements of business ethics is The Four-Way Test.

Of the things we think, say or do: 1. Is it the TRUTH? 2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?

4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

People of Action JOIN US: Florence Rotary meets each Tuesday at the Florence Events Center, 715 Quince St. To attend a meeting, visit www. theflorencerotary.org.

CONTACT US: Rotary Club of Florence PO Box 294 Florence, OR 97439 www.theflorencerotary.org kim.erickson@opbc.com

— Rotary Club of Florence Club Leadership — President Karen Skulley President-Elect Jane Hanawalt Club Executive Secretary Jenna Bartlett Attendance Secretary Stephen C. Skidmore Service Projects Chair/Treasurer Richard Yecny

Service Projects Chair - Int’l and Grants Ronald Caputo Assistant Treasurer Janet Louise Huston Membership Chair Crystal Farnsworth Membership Chair Lisa Walter-Sedlacek Rotary Foundation Chair Steven Wisman

Club Communications Co-Chair Lori Gates Club Service Chair/Auction Chair Kevin McMullen Community Collaboration Chair Laurel Ferguson Youth Services Chair Bethany Webb Interact Rotary Adviser Robert Teter

Club Admin Chair/District Assistant Governor John Moore Sergeant-at-Arms Colin Morgan Club Programs Chair Sally Wantz Club Communications Co-Chair Graham Ross Past President Kim Erickson

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Club of Florence Making a Difference Hunger hides in every community. That’s why the Rotary Club of Florence supports programs to provide healthy food and develop sustainable solu�ons to food insecurity. Figh�ng hunger to build stronger a stronger community – That’s how we Serve to Change Lives

Rotary believes educa�on is a right. Our more than one million members across the globe unite to educate and upli� students through scholarships and service. Inspiring the next genera�on – That’s how we Serve to Change Lives

Rotary believes healthy communi�es are strong communi�es. That’s one reason why we’ve worked �relessly to help 2.5 billion children against polio. Bringing the world closer to eradica�ng a deadly disease – That’s how we Serve to Change Lives

Poten�al shines brighter when it’s inspired. That’s why the Rotary Club of Florence invests �me and exper�se in encouraging others to be the best they can be. Empowering those who have big dreams to achieve great things – That’s how we Serve to Change Lives

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Rhody Court ‘Back in Bloom’ Celebrating Tradition, Community & Thankfulness

Coronation is 6:30pm on May 19, 2022 @ Florence Events Center Tickets are $13, plus FEC service fees.

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Introducing the 2022 Rhodode ndron Court For 115 years, our area has celebrated each other, our connections, our heritage, new friends and blossoming community with Rhody Days!

The Rhododendron Festival, presented by the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce, is a weekend to never forget and kicks off with the Rhody Coronation!

Junior Court; 1st grader Princess Katelynn Riddle, 2nd grader Princess Myla Streck, 3rd grader Princess Chanel Chatham, 4th grader Princess Giavanna Flosi, 5th grader Princess Lily Lewis Senior Court; Princess Cameron Kentta, Princess Haylee Cole, Princess Alex Fuller, Princess Alexia Clark, Princess Alizabeth Norton, Prince Camp Lacouture, Prince Chad Hughes, Prince Joseph Shepard, Prince James Smith, Prince Jason Garcia.

Spe cial thanks to our Diamond Sponsors:

Jean Koning

Christina Voogd - Principal Broker

Thank Your To All Of Our Sponsors Burn’s Riverside Chapel Coastal Fitness Delta Gamma Goodman’s Floor Covering John’s Painting and Construction Kitchen Klutter

Ray Wells, Inc. Sue Gilday, State Farm Insurance Torex ATV rentals PeaceHarbor Peace Health Burch’s Roofing Coldwell Banker Coast Real Estate

Darlings Marina and RV Resort Evergreen Concrete Florence Heating and Sheet Metal Rotary Club of Florence Scott Ryland Plubming Sea Lion Caves

For more information visit: www.florencechamber.com

Coast Road Construction Stitch & Sole Shervin’s Tire and Automotive The Siuslaw News Word of Mouth Nosh Eatery

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Rhododendron Court Committee 2022

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Celebrating Tradition, Community & Thankfulness

or 115 years, our area has celebrated each other, our connections, our heritage, new friends and blossoming community with Rhody Days!

The Rhododendron Festival — May 18 to 22, 2022 — is a weekend to never forget. It kicks off with the Rhody Coronation!

The Rhody Court Leadership Team, a committee of the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce, consists of a dynamic group of dedicated community members including; Kay King, Jennifer Waggoner, Vanessa Buss, Tamara Cole, Jenna Bartlett, Wendy Krause, Jo Beaudreau, Al

Rojas and Kim Erickson. nities to outstanding young womTeam members have en and men in a program been working since that perpetuates an October 2021 appreciation for to make sure Rhododentheir and the dron Festival community history and vision of the tradition and Rhododenis made posdron Court sible by the is brought to support of reality. the Florence The mission Area Chamber of the Rhododenof Commerce. dron Court program The Rhododendron is to provide scholarships Festival High School Court for higher education, to offer net- is comprised of five outstanding working and mentoring opportu- ladies and five outstanding men

who are selected from Siuslaw and Mapleton High Schools.

The Junior Court is comprised of one student from grades 1-5.

Queen Rhododendra and her Junior and Senior Princess Courts as well as the King of the Coast and his Senior Prince Court will reign over the 2022 Rhododendron Festival. They act as the goodwill ambassadors for this event and make many promotional appearances between the start of the year and the annual Rhody Festival in May. Learn more at florencechamber. com/annual-events/rhody-festi val-2/.

18 | Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits

Community service projects for kids

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he importance of giving back to one’s community is a value that parents can instill in their children at an early age. Learning about worthy causes in local communities can help develop empathy in children and give them insight into those who live outside of their social and economic spheres. In addition, encouraging children to take part in community service can teach them skills they would not necessarily learn in the classroom.

Getting involved in community service as a child may lead to a lifelong commitment to giving back.

The following are some ways children can get involved in community service projects.

include repairing play equipment, planting trees, adding a vegetable or flower garden, or installing buddy benches where friends can find each other and hang out.

Send care packages

Kids can reward first responders and military personnel who live in their communities by putting together care packages for them and their families.

Collect food for the needy

Volunteering with a local soup kitchen can teach children about the plight of the less fortunate. Kids also can collect canned or boxed food and deliver it to food pantries so that no needy family has to go are cleared with the home’s staff. Kids can work hungry.

Donate eyeglasses Kids can gather used eyeglasses and donate to an alongside seniors on craft projects or participate in games like bingo. organization that recycles them for the needy.

Pick up litter

Children can gather like-minded friends and participate in a beach or park cleanup.

Working with the principal of a local school, chilChildren can visit seniors in nursing homes or Service projects are great ways for kids to get inassisted living facilities, provided that the visits dren can make plans to improve the grounds Ideas volved and give back to their communities.

Spend time with seniors

Improve school grounds

Boys & Girls Club of Western Lane County MISSION STATEMENT To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens

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stablished in 1997, the Boys and Girls Club of Western Lane County provides a safe, positive place to learn and grow, life enhancing programs staffed by caring adult professionals, character development experiences that promote responsibility, compassion and service to others, goals to instill confidence & hope through opportunity.

Our Club provides diverse activities that meet the interests of all youth.

The Boys & Girls Club of Western Lane County is the most widely sought-after, self-sustaining nonprofit on the Oregon Coast. It is a vibrant place, attracting all youth ages 6 – 18 and focusing on those who need additional support and care.

Our facilities promote a sense of safety and security. The children who walk through our doors feel loved and part of our family. They ask to join the Club, prospective employees want to work for us,

dedicated staff members stay connected to the organization, and community partners reach out to us.

We are an asset to the community by teaching vital life skills and coping skills at the Club. We teach children to give back, creating a culture of generational legacy.

The Board of Directors considers it their highest honor to serve the youth in our area. Simply put, there is no other place that any child would rather be than our Club.

AREAS WE SERVE: Florence, Mapleton, Dunes City & Reedsport CONTACT US: Boys and Girls Club of Western Lane County 1501 Airport Road, Florence, OR 97439 541-902-0304 | www.bgcwlc.org exec@bgcwlc.org

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Maxmize Your Impact With A Life Income Plan

Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits |19

The Salvation Army

®

In the immediate aftermath of a fire and in the everyday crises of life The Salvation Army is here to serve.

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Features of a Life Income Plan: Income For Life Partially Tax-Free Income Income Tax Deduction Asset Diversification Q

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503-880-0680

Call or return the coupon today for more information.

ONE-LIFE RATES

Age

Rate

65 70 75 80 85 90+

4.2% 4.7% 5.4% 6.5% 7.6% 8.6%

Two-life rates available.

Rates subject to change.

Name(s) Address City, State & Zip Phone ( ) Age(s) E-mail Mail to: The Salvation Army William A. Olson, Director of Gift Planning 8495 SE Monterey Avenue • Happy Valley, OR 97086 E-mail: bill.olson@usw.salvationarmy.org Visit: salwest.org ©2021 The Salvation Army

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he Salvation Army exists to do the most good possible in the worldly realm of providing humanitarian and social services while advocating that our government and economic structures be committed to the relief of suffering and achieving social justice in our world.

The main activities of The Salvation Army are as follows: • To continue the advancement of the Christian religion through evangelistic outreach • To continue to provide financial assistance to The Salvation Army where needed • To provide effective leadership and share knowledge and expertise through the strategic deployment of personnel • To respond to and help meet the needs arising from major crises • To strengthen The Salvation Army’s capacity to support poor and marginalized people who need access to quality primary health care services as close to the family as possible • To take action to combat the massive and growing evil of sexual trafficking and to

create awareness of social injustice in the world.

All these activities are to be rendered without discrimination to those with need.

While we remain committed to the provision of resources and outreach to every zip code in the USA, we also share the tremendous opportunity to enjoin others in our mission.

We now serve every zip code in the USA and serve others in over 130 countries. The challenge of ‘doing the most good’ is best met by the strategic deployment of personnel guided by volunteer boards and councils throughout the world and locally.

Learn more at www. facebook.com/salarmywest ernlanecounty.

20 | Giving Back Guide for Area Nonprofits

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Florence Food Share MISSION STATEMENT To alleviate hunger and help restore dignity in Western Lane County

lorence Food Share is a private, nonprofit, emergency food box serving western Lane County, Ore. We provide emergency food, free of charge, to low income, disabled, senior, unemployed and underemployed individuals and households in the areas of Florence and the Dunes City/Westlake areas of coastal Oregon.

The food share started out as a grass-roots effort to help provide emergency food to Florence area residents in 1980. It moved to its permanent home at 2190 Spruce St. in 1994, where volunteers created the Flor-

ence Food Share gardens. The garden If you would like to become a has gradually grown into the current member of this special group of peo15,000 square feet and 52 raised gar- ple, please come in to the pantry and den beds. fill out a volunteer application. It’s a great way to make friends while givFUNDRAISING EVENTS: ing back.

Empty Bowls, Crab Crack, Pound- Right now, we have need for people ing for Florence Food Share willing to be on call and who are will- keep an updated list of most-needed ing to work in our warehouse. Call items online.

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS: 541-997-9110 for more information.

CONTACT US: Florence Food Share is blessed to Florence Food Share have the help of the most dedicated DONATION OPPORTUNITIES: 2190 Spruce St., Florence, OR long-term volunteers, who give of We accept cash, check, credit/debit 97439 | 541-997-9110 their time selflessly, every day, week and PayPal through our website, florflorencefoodshare.org after week. encefoodshare.org. info@florencefoodshare.org We love our volunteers!

We also accept food donations and