In this issue:

Program spotlight: Family Relief Nursery
The Family Relief Nursery (FRN) is an intervention/prevention program for families with children six weeks to five years old. It works to strengthen fragile families at serious risk of abusing or neglecting their children or of permanently losing custody of their children.
This program offers a holistic, positive intervention with both children and parents. Services include therapeutic daycare, parenting education, medical and mental health treatment, home visits and more. All services are provided at no charge to families.

The FRN is also home to about 17% of all VOA Oregon volunteers. Their volunteer program continues to grow under the great support of Volunteer Coordinator, Crystal Ross. The Family Relief Nursery primarily engages volunteers as classroom assistants where volunteers get to play and be a kid again. 

Because of the work volunteers do, teachers are less stressed and able to provide more one-on-one attention to children. And, having volunteers in the classroom provides more positive adult figures in lives of our kids. Research on resiliency shows that having caring adults outside the family makes a positive impact on a child's life. Our volunteers and staff are those people, making a lasting impact and creating a brighter future. 

The FRN also hosts many corporate groups in days of service and in-kind donation drives. From crafting memory books to cleaning and painting, donating hygiene items and throwing parties, volunteer groups bring enthusiasm and are great ambassadors of our programs. 

What are volunteers saying about the Family Relief Nursery? 

"I have seen the early childhood intervention process happen right before my eyes! The teachers care deeply and the kids can feel it. This is a wonderful and necessary program!"

"I realize I can make a difference, even if it's just for one child. I have come to have an even greater respect for nonprofit agencies."

Volunteer impact
It's hard to measure the value of a volunteer, but we know that volunteers bring so much to our organization. Volunteers contribute new ideas and creativity, skills and knowledge to help us grow, and a passion for our mission. We are so fortunate to have you among our 1,000 volunteers.  Here are some ways you impacted VOA Oregon in Fiscal Year 2014-2015. Thank you for your service and support of our mission!
In the news
We know how your volunteering has impacted VOA Oregon, but how has it benefited you? As a volunteer myself, I know how meaningful volunteering has been in my own life. It has made me more empathetic and compassionate, and strengthened my own skills and confidence. I've always felt I gain more than I give while serving. And there's science to back that up in Forbes' article,  "5 Surprising Benefits of Volunteering" ! Although, these benefits probably aren't too surprising to you. How has volunteering changed your life?
Special project!
Are you (or someone you know) a skilled craftsman or wanting to improve your skills in woodworking/carpentry? If so, we'd love your support in building our bunny a new home.

Therapy animals are an important part of our safe and fun environment at the Family Relief Nursery a nd we are excited to adopt a bunny. But  first, we need a  bunny house!

We are looking for a volunteer to lend a hand in building a rabbit hutch. We can provide supplies, but it would be helpful for you to have your own tools.

Email Kelsey Stark at [email protected] to volunteer. We look forward to building with you!
VOA Oregon wish lists
In addition to volunteer time and financial contirbutions, VOA Oregon and our clients rely on generous in-kind donations. Gifts of hygiene items, gently used clothing (for all ages!), gift cards and more are so appreciated. These basic items can greatly reduce stress and provide comfort to our clients in their time of need. Please consider donating some of the items off our wish list. 

Call the number of the program listed on the website to make a donation drop off or contact Kelsey Stark at [email protected] to make arrangements.
Group volunteer opportunities
Having a great time volunteering and want to share your experience with others? Bring your friends, family or coworkers to serve with you! VOA Oregon has several ways for you to involve your group in a day (or a couple of hours) of service. 

Whether you want to get your hands dirty and help garden or clean, practice your crafting skills while making special memory books, or enjoy activities with seniors, we promise your group will have a memorable experience. 

We can accommodate groups of up to 15 volunteers and will try our best to work with your schedule. Learn more at voaor.org/one-time.

Have an idea for a project? Let us know at ([email protected])! 
One-time volunteer opportunities
With everyone's busy schedules, it can be difficult to volunteer on a regular basis. Or maybe you love your current volunteer role but would like to get to know our other programs at VOA Oregon. That's where one-time (or drop-in) volu nteer opportunities come in!

VOA Oregon has several events that volunteers can join just for the day/night. Some of these events occur monthly, like our community nights at 5 low-income housing sites in Portland, or our intergenerational projects with Lambert House and the Family Relief Nursery. There are also special events that typically happen annually. Volunteer at one of our fundraising events, join a holiday party, or serve food at the annual Men's Residential Center Block Party. 


One-time projects are great way to give back even with our busy lives. They're also a great way for your friends and family to join us and learn more about our programs. Invite your friends to drop by for a project. To learn more about these projects, click here. Or email [email protected] to learn more and/or RSVP. 
Kelsey Stark
Volunteer Services Manager
503-595-2009
Our Mission: To change lives by promoting self-determination, building strong communities and standing for social justice.