Giving Back & Making A Difference in the Siuslaw Region

Giving Back & Making A Difference in the Siuslaw Region A celebration of some of the area’s nonprofits

Spring 2021 A Special Publication of the Siuslaw News

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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: $8.9 million, comprising DONATION more than 60 permanent funds OPPORTUNITIES: Grants and scholarships: Who should create a community $140,340 awarded in 2019 legacy?

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

541-997-1274 | wlcfonline.org Anyone who has benefited financially 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 Karen Skulley, President Karen Earnshaw Sheldon Meyer, Vice President Cindy Forsythe Sandy Kuhlman, Treasurer Robert Orr Bonnie Rose Allen, Secretary Susan Tive

Giving Back to Area Nonprofits 3

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

We are extremely fortunate in Florence to have such a wide variety of nonprofit organizations that help raise the quality of life in our wonderful community. In this pandemic year, many community members have increasingly turned to our local nonprofits for help — to provide food, to care for our elderly, and support the distressed.

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 in 2020. Nearly all have seen revenues drop, while

their services have seen increases in demand.

As you look through this guide, you may find an organization or cause that will benefit from your time or resources that are critical at this time. If you choose to donate or volunteer, you will be helping build a better community, enriching your life and the lives of others.

Thank you. From all of us.

Jenna Bartlett Publisher, Siuslaw News

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

Support the area’s nonprofits

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 Florence area is wellknown for its community spirit and the giving volunteers who keep many of the

Siuslaw Region’s nonprofits thriving and active. In addition, the area has deep pockets, with people coming forth to support their neighbors with donations, grants, gifts and physical assets.

In this time of increased need during the COVID-19 pandemic, people can still give to support their favorite nonprofits, including the ones in this guide. Consider giving a monetary donation, asking about ways to volunteer and being ready to help in other ways.

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.

2021. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Helping Hands was limited to handing out sack lunches.

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 4590 Highway 101, inside the church PO Box 1296 Florence, OR 97439 2021 GOALS: 541-997-5057 Our goal is to start serving hot helpinghandsflorence.org meals every third Saturday in April helpinghands1269@gmail.com

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FACE — Florence Arts, Culture & Entertainment

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MISSION STATEMENT To support Florence’s Arts, Culture & Entertainment at the Florence Events Center

ransforming over the past forming arts groups to help them year, FACE (Florence Arts, 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 2021 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 per- 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

director’s committee, volunteer on our grants committee, serve on our fundraising committee, or be part of our speakers bureau to tell others about the great work of FACE in our community. You can also sponsor our many public events.

CONTACT US: — FACE — Florence Events Center 715 Quince St. Florence, OR 97439 541-997-1994 | eventcenter.org Look for our website this spring!

WHO IS THAT NEW FACE IN TOWN? Florence Arts, Culture & Entertainment (FACE)—formerly The Friends of the Florence Events Center—is the freshly rebranded nonprofit that supports the Florence Events Center’s staging of musical, theatrical, educa�onal, cultural, and mee�ng events; provides for capital improvements; provides grants to performing arts groups that use the venue; and serves as a vital source of volunteers.

WHAT WE DO: During our 2019-2020 fiscal year, FACE… Provided local arts groups—Siuslaw Schools Bands and Choirs, CROW, and others—with performance grants to make their use of the theater more affordable.

Purchased more than $20,000 of equipment for the FEC including a video security system, upright Yamaha piano, professional quality wireless mics, and audio equipment. Previously, we also funded the new sound and lighting systems. This helps offset capital costs that would otherwise be paid by taxpayers.

Produced fun Arts, Cultural & Entertainment events.

HOW CAN WE AFFORD ALL THIS? Fundraising through memberships, event sponsors, grants, and hos�ng fes�vals and sales. Proceeds go directly to the needs of the FEC and its users.

WHY THE CHANGE? Despite decades of hard work, the Friends of the Florence Events Center was prac�cally invisible. “Faceless” you might say. We were o�en confused with other local “Friends” groups. This year we gave ourselves a badly needed “FACE li�.”

The newly revitalized Florence Arts, Culture & Entertainment is ready to roll as soon as the FEC can safely reopen to events.

For membership informa�on, contact the main office at 541-997-1994.

Thank you. We can’t wait to see your FACE at the FEC!

JOIN US! Join us and put on a happy FACE! We’re looking for more leaders, doers, organizers, and supporters for the Florence Events Center (and those who use it)— like-minded people to share their gi�s of �me, talent, and funding in suppor�ng the coast’s best venue for Arts, Culture & Entertainment.

Giving Back to Area Nonprofits 5

Children’s Repertory of Oregon Workshops

CROW (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.

MISSION STATEMENT — The arts really do matter 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, whenever and however we can.

In everything CROW does, we encourage our kids to reach for the stars. Our educational philosophy is: “The Sky’s The Limit.

summer camps, productions, to PO Box 184. and more for the children and We desperately need ongoing families of our region. donations to operate, since we provide so many free and lowANNUAL EVENTS: cost opportunities for children.

Mainstage musicals, ScareThank you, donors! We are CROW Haunted Maze, Wine very grateful for the amazing Tour, Holiday Tour of Homes, support of those who know Holly Jolly Follies, Theatre that “The Arts Really Do MatCamps and more! ter!”

GET INVOLVED: A Volunteer Interest Form is available on our website.

DONATION OPPORTUNITIES: 2021 GOALS: Support us online at www.

To safely re-open, and to once again provide creative classes, crowkids.com/donate or mail

CONTACT US: — CROW — Center for Performing Arts, 3120 Highway 101 PO Box 184, Florence OR 97439 541-999-8641 | crowkids.com crowtheatrekids@yahoo.com

6 Giving Back to Area Nonprofits

Rods ‘N’ Rhodies, Inc. Transportation Solutions

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MISSION STATEMENT To support community projects and provide automotive assistance to those in need

ods ‘N’ Rhodies, Inc.’s mis- to the car show. sion is to not only organize CONTACT US: a great car show but to raise funds for the members of our Rods ‘N’ Rhodies, Inc. community who struggle to 541-999-6513 www.rodsnrhodies.org make ends meet with support rodsnrhodies@gmail.com for transportation related issues, like oil changes, registraANNUAL EVENT: tion and new tires.

In most normal years, the GET INVOLVED: Rods ‘N’ Rhodies Car Show How can you help? Give and Benefit brings together more than a hundred classic where you live!

Volunteer, make a monetary cars for a show-and-shine in donation, donate your unused Historic Old Town Florence. vehicle, join the board or come The show features a pre-show

stand-around — an early sample of the cars to come — and a weekend of hot rods and cool music.

Rods ‘N’ Rhodies Board of Directors Gary Cargil, President Ross Kroenert, Vice President Dee Osborne, Treasurer Jenna Bartlett, Secretary Terry Hankins, Member George Henry, 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.

Rods N Rhodies, Inc., an 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. This past year we have been able to help families with repairs!

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

Rods N Rhodies Car Show TOP HOT RODS & CLASSIC CARS TO SHINE

SEPTEMBER

rodsnrhodies.org

Check online for details for upcoming shows.

How can you help?

Give Where You Live!

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

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

Giving Back to Area Nonprofits 7

Kiwanis Club of Florence Officers Terry Van Ballegooijen, President

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Megan Messmer, President Elect Jealica Bomberger, Vice President Jean Murphey, Secretary Sandy Stecklair, Treasurer Bob Sneddon, Past President Kevin Groves George Henry Ryan Hitchcock Justin King Cheri Payne Dawnell Spencer Gene Stroud

Kiwanis Club of Florence

MISSION STATEMENT — Serving the Children of the World

iwanis helps kids around the world. as a member or volunteer of Florence Kiwanis.

The Kiwanis Club of Florence Local clubs look out for Oregon is a service organizaour communities and the tion comprised of caring men and women from international organization takes on largeall walks of life. Our scale challenges, such objective is to improve as fighting disease and the lives of children poverty. and youth in our comWe are generous with munity, by focusing on our time. We are creative their health, education and welfare. with our ideas. We are passionate about making a differWe conduct several funence. And we have fun along the way. draising projects annually, which provide monetary support for children’s AREAS WE SERVE: programs throughout our community.

Greater Florence Community and Our personal commitment of time and West Lane County skill is what makes this possible.

Anyone interested in helping our FUNDRAISING EVENTS: youth succeed, will feel very rewarded

• Kiwanis Annual Golf Tournament • Kiwanis Flag Program CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS: • Kiwanis Flag Program • Community Thanksgiving Dinner • Firewood Project • Sweet Dreams Pillowcase Project • Fall Harvest Festival • Eighth Grade Game of Life DONATION OPPORTUNITIES: • Florence Kiwanis Foundation • Kiwanis Club of Florence CONTACT US: Kiwanis Club of Florence PO Box 1667, Florence, OR 97439 florencekiwanis.org info@florencekiwanis.net

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Community Thanksgiving Dinner at the Elks

Boys & Girls Club of Western Lane County

Firewood Program

Florence Food Share

Flag Program

Food Backpacks for Kids

Game of Life – A Reality Check for 8th Graders

Kiwanis Doernbecher Children¶s Cancer Program

Head Start Harvest Celebration

Kiwanis Scholarships

National Night Out Kids Games

Mapleton Food Share

Rhody Days Kids Games

Mapleton School Supplies

Siuslaw High School & Middle School Pantries

Siuslaw School Supplies

Sweet Dreams Pillowcase Project

Winter Music Festival Kids Concert

8 Giving Back to Area Nonprofits

*PROSTATE CANCER SPOKEN HERE* Florence, Oregon

Us TOO Florence

Prostate Cancer Education/Support on the Oregon Coast www.ustooflorence.org BOB HORNEY, CHAPTER LEADER/FACILITATOR BOTH MEETINGS ARE CURRENTLY ON HOLD. WATCH SIUSLAW NEWS FOR RESUMPTION

• Tuesday Evening Group (2nd Tuesday) 5-7 p.m. - Ichiban Chinese/Japanese Restaurant Urologist Dr. Bryan Mehlhaff attends.

• Tuesday Lunch Group (3rd Tuesday)

12 noon – 1:00 p.m. – Ichiban Chinese/Japanese Restaurant Urologist Dr. Roger McKimmy attends.

Contact Bob for more information: (H) 541-997-6626 (C) 541-999-4239 maribob@oregonfast.net • Check out our Personal Prostate Cancer Journeys, slideshows and other information on our website.

• A prostate cancer diagnosis is not needed to attend.

• Spouses/family members are encouraged to attend.

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

Donations Stay Local Us TOO Florence 924 Island Drive South Florence, OR 97439

*SEPTEMBER* PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

Giving Back to Area Nonprofits 9

Prostate Information

Us Florence a chapter of Us TOO non-profi International Prostate UsTOO TOO Florence is aislocal tax-exempt 501(c)3 t organization Cancer Education/Support Network with over 325 chapters bringing prostate cancer education and support to the Oregon worldwide. Us TOO Florence provides two opportunities each Coast. We are a chapter of Us TOO International Prostate Cancer month to meet with urologists and prostate cancer survivors/ Education/Support a on Charity Navigator 3-Star 501(c)3 spouses.

Come joinNetwork, us, 5 p.m. the second Tuesday of the organization. need to have prostate to attend. Two great month at the No Presbyterian Church ofcancer the Siuslaw chances discuss pros consthird of screening.

Dr. BryantoMehlhaff) or and on the Tuesday of the month at Ichiban Restaurant (Dr. Roger McKimmy).

Check usus out online Check out at: at: www.ustooflorence.org www.ustooflorence.org for prostate forinformation prostate cancer information cancer and the personal prostate cancer journeys of many Us and our personal journeys.

TOO Florence participants.

For information: For Information: Bob Horney 541-997-6626 Bob Horney 541-997-6626 maribob@oregonfast.net maribob@oregonfast.net

10 Giving Back to Area Nonprofits

Soroptimist International of Florence

Ask Me Why I’m A Soroptimist

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.

DONATION OPPORTUNITIES:

Because of the unique membership structure of Soroptimist, while dues pay for member services, governance and administration, your charitable contributions are used for fundraising and program expenses.

Consider contributing today to help fund our lifechanging global Dream Programs. Your generos- or & memorial gifts and ity empowers women and planned giving. girls throughout the world to achieve their dreams of a CONTACT US: better life.

Soroptimist We provide a variety of International of Florence giving options to help you PO Box 1209, make Soroptimist your Florence, OR 97439 cause of choice! These insoroptimist.florence@ clude monthly giving, hongmail.com

“I want to contribute to my local community”

“We enable girls to reach their full potential”

“We are Global with UN status” “Investing in Dreams”

“I’m helping women and girls all over the world”

“I want to make friends and have fun”

For More Information about joining,

“I want to make life better for women and girls”

siflorence@soroptimist.net • Facebook: Soroptimist of Florence Oregon

Safe Shelter for Siuslaw Students MISSION STATEMENT

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Making a difference — by providing students with safe shelter!

afe Shelter for Siuslaw Students is committed to providing emergency temporary housing for insufficiently housed K-12 students currently enrolled in the Siuslaw Schools, and for their families as needed.

We are developing collaborative partnerships with a growing network of other likeminded community agencies while also working closely with the Siuslaw School District. Our children are our most precious treasure!

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS:

Many roles for volunteers are a huge part of our efforts. Would you be a Host Home?

Help support a Host Family with your time or your resources? Recruit Host Home teams at your church or organization?

Find affordable housing? Are you a Fun-

draiser? Be a champion for Safe Shelter?

Let us know!

MORE WAYS TO HELP

A nonprofit is as strong as the community that holds it up. Together, we can do more than we can do alone. Let’s bring our abilities and passions together to affect real change in the quality of life for these students.

Donations can be made through our website or via check.

CONTACT US:

Safe Shelter for Siuslaw Students 541-590-0779 PO Box 1402, Florence, OR 97439 safeshelterforsiuslawstudents.org suzanne@safeshelterforsiuslawstudents.org

WE CARE ABOUT STUDENTS!

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

BY PROVIDING STUDENTS WITH SAFE SHELTER! suzanne@safeshelterforsiuslawstudents.org Volunteers Needed • 541-590-0779

Giving Back to Area Nonprofits 11

Oregon Coast Humane Society

You Make It Paw-ssible!

MISSION STATEMENT

Your friends at the Oregon Coast Humane Society want you to know how grateful we are for your support! OCHS is a no-kill community that promotes a lifetime commitment to pets. We provide loving care to lost, abandoned, and unwanted pets in Florence 365 days a year. Please support the lifesaving, life-changing work of OCHS with your time, talents, and funding.

In 2020 OCHS… • Saved more than 1000 animals • Distributed more than 3500 pounds of pet food through our community pet food bank • Provided more than 400 spay/neuter surgeries • Found new fur-ever homes for 600 dogs and cats What gifts help the most?

• Your time! Join OCHS and volunteer at the shelter or thrift shop • Dog and cat food for our residents and for our community pet food bank • Bedding, toys, cleaning supplies, kitty litter

• Cash contributions to our low-cost spay/neuter and microchipping programs • Funds to cover pre-adoption costs including checkups, spay/neuter costs, vaccines, and microchipping • Support the SARAH Fund for emergency medical treatment for pets of low-income households • Corporate sponsorships! Gain great community exposure for your business!

On behalf of our residents, dedicated and hardworking staff, and our incredibly valuable volunteers…thank you!

CONTACT US TODAY! SHELTER Rhododendron Dr., Florence, OR 97439 (541) 997-4277 Open 11am-4pm 7 days a week by appointment only.

OCHS Oregon Coast Humane Society

PAWS BOUTIQUE THRIFT SHOP 1193 Bay St., Old Town Florence, OR 97439 • (541) 997-5705 Open Monday through Saturday 11am-3pm.

Closed on Sundays

Join! Donate! Volunteer! Support! info@oregoncoasthumanesociety.org OCHS is a local 501(c)3 nonprofit. Your heroic gifts are tax deductible.

Receipts and thank-you letters are mailed on the next business day.

To rescue, care for, and find responsible, loving, permanent homes for homeless and at-risk dogs and cats; to advance the goal of a no-kill community; to promote the principal of a lifetime commitment to our pets; and to provide for spay-neuter and educational programs to the public.

A

t Oregon Coast Humane Society (OCHS), our 2021 Goals include: A continued small-scale remodel to improve facility flow and function, a capital campaign for an important building addition to house a veterinary clinic, more low-cost spay/neuter clinics, more low-cost microchip clinics, even better and more immediate care for animals brought to the shelter, and more care for other pets in the region.

AREAS WE SERVE: Florence, Central Oregon Coast, and Western Lane County FUNDRAISING EVENTS: Fundraising for OCHS is an ongoing effort. Events are in the planning stages and will depend, in part, on the lifting of pandemic restrictions.

DONATION OPPORTUNITIES: The Oregon Coast Humane Society is a local nonprofit, dependent on direct contributions of pet food, bedding, toys, kitty litter, cleaning supplies and cash.

Through our Paws Boutique Thrift Shop at Bay and Kingwood streets in Historic Old Town Florence, people can shop great bargains and donate new and used clothing, household goods, tools, furniture, appliances and more. All proceeds from the shop help fund the shelter at 2840 Rhododendron Dr.

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS: Join our members, supporters and volunteers — special people with a love and compassion for animals. Pet the kitties. Walk the dogs. Clean the kennels and litter boxes. Share your love with these adorably deserving friends.

You can volunteer at our thrift store too!

Please contact us today.

CONTACT US: Oregon Coast Humane Society Animal Shelter: 2840 Rhododendron Dr. | 541997-4277 Paws Boutique Thrift Shop: 1193 Bay St. | 541-997-5705 Florence, Ore.

oregoncoasthumanesociety.org info@oregoncoasthumanesociety.org

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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 lead- Youth play an important part in ers.

Rotary. They are our future leaders and will help shape the way AREAS OF SERVICE: the world works. The Florence The work of Rotary begins in Rotary Club is proud to support the community, and every com- the youth in our community munity has its own unique needs through scholarships that help and concerns. While we serve them achieve their goals. in countless ways, we’ve focused In Mapleton School District, our efforts in six key areas to students can apply for the Flormaximize impact: ence Rotary Mapleton Scholar1. Peace and Conflict Preven- ship, Florence Rotary Club Comtion/Resolution munity Service Scholarships and 2. Disease Prevention and the Florence Rotary Club Arts Scholarship.

Treatment In Siuslaw School District, stu3. Water and Sanitation 4. Maternal and Child Health dents can apply for the Found5. Basic Education and Literacy ers /Arthur Coit Past Presidents’ 6. Economic and Community Scholarships Florence Rotary President’s Scholarships, FlorDevelopment ence Rotary Club Community Service Scholarships, Sneddon ANNUAL FUNDRAISERS:

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

Learn more at www. theflorencerotar y.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 over the Zoom video meeting app and 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 — Kim D. Erickson, President Karen Skulley, President-Elect Jimmie Hart, Treasurer

Ronald Caputo, Service Projects Chair Janet Huston, Membership Chair

Meg Spencer, Past President Robert Steele, Community Service Chair

Jenna Bartlett, Club Executive Secretary

Kevin McMullen, Club Service Chair John Moore, Sergeant-at-Arms

Robert Teter, Interact Rotary Adviser

Stephen C. Skidmore, Attendance Secretary

Graham Ross, Club Communications Officer

Gayle Vinchesi, Club Admin Chair and Dictionary/Literacy

Sally Wantz, Club Programs Chair Lisa Walter-Sedlacek, Membership Chair

Bethany Webb, Youth Services Chair Steven Wisman, Rotary Foundation Chair Richard Yecny, Service Projects Chair

Giving Back to Area Nonprofits 13

PEOPLE OF ACTION For 115 years 1.2 million Rotarians in 35,000 clubs have invested hundreds of millions of dollars, and countless volunteer hours, to:

PROMOTE HEALTH, PEACE AND PROSPERITY IN COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE GLOBE. PROVIDE CLEAN WATER & SANITATION, BASIC EDUCATION & LITERACY, AND MATERNAL & CHILD HEALTHCARE SUPPORT ECONOMIC & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT. PREVENT & TREAT DISEASES ROTARY, ALONG WITH THE GLOBAL POLIO ERADICATION, HAVE WORKED TIRELESSLY FOR 30 YEARS TO END POLIO WORLDWIDE AND HAVE ACHIEVED A 99.9% REDUCTION IN POLIO CASES.

Since 1960 the Rotary Club of Florence has actively worked within our community to improve education, literacy, healthcare, and Community & Economic Development.

Many people you know in Florence are Rotarians. As members of the Rotary Club of Florence, did you know each year they:

SPONSOR SIUSLAW HIGH SCHOOL & MIDDLE SCHOOL INTERACT CLUBS THAT ENGAGE IN LOCAL SERVICE PROJECTS SEND SELECTED HIGH SCHOOL SOPH. & JR STUDENTS TO A 1-WEEK ROTARY DISTRICT YOUTH LEADERSHIP CAMP AWARD HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS IN SCHOLARSHIPS TO SIUSLAW AND MAPLETON HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS CONDUCT A ROTARY 4-WAY TEST SPEECH CONTEST FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WITH PRIZES EQUALING $1,500 SEND THE WINNER OF THE FLORENCE ROTARY 4-WAY SPEECH CONTEST TO THE ROTARY DISTRICT FINALS PROVIDE MONEY TO THE SCHOOLS FOR EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES HELP STUDENTS WITH SCHOOL SUPPLIES SPONSOR THE ANNUAL FLORENCE EASTER EGG HUNT PROVIDE FOOD & DRINK FOR THE BAND MEMBERS OF THE RHODY DAYS PARADE DONATE TURKEY’S TO THE SOROPTIMIST CHRISTMAS BASKET PROGRAM HOLD ANNUAL FUNDRAISERS AND DONATE MONEY TO MANY LOCAL WORTHY CAUSES

FLORENCE ROTARIANS ARE PEOPLE OF ACTION

VOLUNTEER AT FOOD SHARE

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB CHECK

GOLF TOURNAMENT

ANNUAL AUCTION

READING TO CHILDREN

SHS STUDENT OF THE QUARTER

MOBILE DENTAL CLINIC

EASTER EGG HUNT

14 Giving Back to Area Nonprofits

Florence Food Share

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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 grassroots 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 Florence Food Share gardens. The garden has gradually grown into the current 15,000 square

feet and 52 raised garden beds.

2021 GOALS:

Reopen our Food Pantry to clients and restore many of the functions we used to hold pre-COVID. We will also emerge stronger from COVID-19.

FUNDRAISING EVENTS:

Empty Bowls, Crab Crack, Pounding for Florence Food Share

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS:

Florence Food Share is blessed to have the help of the most dedicated long-term volunteers, who give of their time selflessly, every day, week

after week.

We love our volunteers!

If you would like to become a member of this special group of people, please come in to the pantry and fill out a volunteer application. It’s a great way to make friends while giving back.

We also accept food donations and Right now, we have need for people keep an updated list of most-needed willing to be on call and who are will- items online. ing to work in our warehouse. Call 541-997-9110 for more information.

CONTACT US: Florence Food Share DONATION OPPORTUNITIES: 2190 Spruce St., Florence, OR 97439 We accept cash, check, credit/debit 541-997-9110 and PayPal through our website, florflorencefoodshare.org encefoodshare.org. info@florencefoodshare.org

F L O R E N C E F O O D S H A R E JOIN US IN ALLEVIATING HUNGER AND ENHANCING HEALTH AND DIGNITY IN WESTERN LANE COUNTY

The communities generosity in the forms of time, money, and food is so greatly appreciated. A single dollar stretches a long way. Thanks to this support and the support of Food For Lane County, our pantry can distribute over 50,000 pounds of food to over 900 hungry households every month. Heartfelt gratitude is continually expressed and does not stop with a “Thank you” and a content family. It is amazing how often last month’s recipient becomes this month’s donor or volunteer. This consistent communication and interaction with community members help solidify one of the fundamentals of serving as a food bank. Need is a personal thing. Many use our services only once a year.

For others it may be more frequent. Family needs are different than travelers’ needs. Short term needs differ from long term needs. Most often, our needed items are cheese, milk, mac & cheese and peanut butter.

Canned fruit & vegetables, refried beans, and canned soup are also staples that everyone appreciates.

Please cut out this message and place it on your refrigerator, because

hunger doesn’t take a day off

CONTACT US:

ADDRESS: 2190 Spruce Street, Florence, OR, 97439 PHONE: (541) 997-9110 EMAIL: info@florencefoodshare.org WEBSITE: www.florencefoodshare.org

Giving Back to Area Nonprofits 15

Boys and Girls Clubs 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

E

stablished in 1997, the Boys and Girls Clubs 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.

Fraudville Lip-Sync Contest – February 2022

DONATION OPPORTUNITIES: 2020 was challenging for us all, especially the kids. As jobs were cut and schools closed, many families had difficulty buying groceries, finding childcare, and accessing Wi-Fi and devices for kids to continue their education.

The COVID-19 crisis devastated many families in our community. Over 65% of our Club kids’ families are at or well below poverty level. That will not change anytime soon.

In the last five months, we gave out over $40,000 in program scholarships to families with a AREAS WE SERVE: proven financial need, and we Florence, Mapleton, know the need is greater now Dunes City and Reedsport than ever. In 2020 we prepared and served to kids over 7,800 hot FUNDRAISING EVENTS: Fore! Kids Golf Classic meals and snacks. Since June, we pivoted from 4 hours of proTournament – June 5, 2021 Whatever It Takes For The Kids grams a day to 9 hours a day to provide internet access to the Gala – Oct. 2, 2021

Virtual Classroom while schools were closed.

The simple things mean everything to kids who are facing overwhelming life circumstances right now: A hot meal, a safe place to be while parents are at work, a device to participate in school, help with homework, art supplies to stay creative, and an adult who will be there no matter what. While so much in our world feels complicated, your support makes it possible to help kids through the challenges they’re facing today to ensure great futures are still possible tomorrow. “Giving is not just about making a donation, it’s about making a difference.”

CONTACT US: Boys and Girls Clubs of Western Lane County 1501 Airport Road Florence, OR 97439 541-902-0304 www.bgcwlc.org exec@bgcwlc.org

— Boys and Girls Clubs of Western Lane County Officers and Directors: — Josiah Pleasant, Chief Executive Officer

Laurie Green, President

Patrick Bennett, Treasurer

Pixie Center, Vice President

Michael Pearson, Secretary

Eddie Osorio, Director Chuck Trent, Director

Maggie Wisniewski, Director Jimmie Zinn, Director

Most of 2020 was dark and discouraging. But, we were reminded along the way what is most valuable to us. dŚĞ ďĞƐƚ ŐŝŌƐ ĂƌĞ ƚŚĞ ƉĞŽƉůĞ ŝŶ ŽƵƌ ůŝĨĞ. We learned to not dwell on what we don’t have or what we have lost ďƵƚ ƚŽ ŐƌŽǁ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŐƌĂĐĞ ŽĨ ŐƌĂƟƚƵĚĞ͘ zŽƵ ƐĞĞ͕ ŐƌĂƟƚƵĚĞ strengthens the heart and encourages us to serve. Light is ŶĞǀĞƌ ďƌŝŐŚƚĞƌ ƚŚĂŶ ǁŚĞŶ ŝƚ ŝƐ ĚĂƌŬ͘ ^ŝŶĐĞ :ƵŶĞ͕ ǁĞ ŚĂǀĞ ďĞĞŶ ŽƉĞƌĂƟŶŐ ĂƐ ĂŶ ŵĞƌŐĞŶĐLJ ŚŝůĚ ĂƌĞ ĞŶƚĞƌ ƉŝǀŽƟŶŐ overnight from four hours of Out-ofSchool-Time care to ten hours a day.

Each morning at 7:45 a.m., 50 kids came to the Club so First ReƐƉŽŶĚĞƌƐ ĂŶĚ ƐƐĞŶƟĂů tŽƌŬĞƌƐ had a safe place for their kids while they were serving our community.

While schools were closed ƚŽ ŝŶͲƉĞƌƐŽŶ ŝŶƐƚƌƵĐƟŽŶ͕ ǁĞ were open. tŚĞŶ ƐĐŚŽŽů ƚƌĂŶƐŝƟŽŶĞĚ ƚŽ Distance Learning, we were open, providing access to the Virtual Classroom and help with homework and tutoring. Ƶƚ ŶŽŶĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĂƚ ǁŽƵůĚ ŚĂǀĞ ďĞĞŶ ƉŽƐƐŝďůĞ ǁŝƚŚŽƵƚ LJŽƵ͘ From a heart of gratitude, thank you for supporting the kids in Florence. ŽLJƐ ĂŶĚ 'ŝƌůƐ ůƵď ŽĨ tĞƐƚĞƌŶ >ĂŶĞ ŽƵŶƚLJ is so much more than just a fun place to hang out after school and during the summer. We are a safe haven for the bullied; a place where mentors and tutors help kids understand and complete homework; and we make sure each of our kids has a hot nutritious meal before they leave.

dŚƌŽƵŐŚ ŶĂƟŽŶĂůůLJ ƉƌŽǀĞŶ ƉƌŽŐƌĂŵƐ ůŝŬĞ ^D Zd 'ŝƌůƐ͕ WĂƐƐƉŽƌƚ ƚŽ DĂŶŚŽŽĚ͕ ĂŶĚ DŽŶĞLJ DĂƩĞƌƐ &ŝŶĂŶĐŝĂů Literacy, we help our young members understand the ďĞŶĞĮƚƐ ŽĨ ŚĞĂůƚŚLJ ůŝĨĞƐƚLJůĞƐ ĂŶĚ ĂƫƚƵĚĞƐ͘ KƵƌ ƐƚĂī ĂŶĚ volunteers believe in kids and know that no one is born a failure. tĞ ĂƌĞ ĐŽŵŵŝƩĞĚ ƚŽ ŚĞůƉŝŶŐ ĞǀĞƌLJ ŽŶĞ ŽĨ ŽƵƌ ŵĞŵďĞƌƐ ƌĞĂůŝnjĞ ƚŚĞŝƌ ĨƵůů ƉŽƚĞŶƟĂů ĂƐ Ă ŚĂƉƉLJ͕ ŚĞĂůƚŚLJ͕ ĨƵůĮůůĞĚ͕ ƉƌŽĚƵĐƟǀĞ ŵĞŵďĞƌ ŽĨ our community.

When it comes to ŐŝǀŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ 'ŝŌ ŽĨ Ă 'ƌĞĂƚ &ƵƚƵƌĞ ĨŽƌ ŽƵƌ ŬŝĚƐ, there is no silver bullet.

EŽ ŵĂŐŝĐ ǁĂŶĚ͘ zŽƵ ĐĂŶ͛ƚ ũƵƐƚ ƐŶĂƉ LJŽƵƌ ĮŶŐĞƌƐ Žƌ ǁŝŐŐůĞ your nose to make it happen.

It doesn’t just take a village; it takes an army of people, a safe environment, high-quality programs, and unique experiĞŶĐĞƐ ƚŽ ůĞǀĞů ƚŚĞ ƉůĂLJŝŶŐ ĮĞůĚ for all kids. We don’t do just one thing — we do whatever it takes to build great futures for our kids. Every ĚĂLJ ŝƐ ĚŝīĞƌĞŶƚ͕ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ŬŝĚƐ͛ ŶĞĞĚƐ ĂƌĞ ĚŝīĞƌĞŶƚ ĞǀĞƌLJ ĚĂLJ͘

“To the world, you may be one person, but to a child, you may be the world.”

16 Giving Back to Area Nonprofits