Hello, Friends of Kerr,
This summer, my family and I explored the shores of the Oregon Coast and the vibrant heart of Seattle. From crashing waves at the beach to the towering silhouette of the Space Needle, it was a reminder of the diverse beauty that surrounds us.
Now, as the back-to-school season unfolds and my sons embark on another school year brimming with curiosity and determination, I reflect on a familiar sentiment. Their journey mirrors what I see in our teams at Kerr: pursuit of excellence, growth, and innovation.
Introducing New Board Members
I am thrilled to welcome four remarkable community members to our Board of Directors: Shouka Darvishi, Principal Consultant—Director of Decarbonization Partnerships, DNV Energy Insights USA, Inc.; Krista Farnham, CEO, Providence Portland Medical Center; Dr. Jenny Tsai, Medical Director, Multnomah County Behavioral Department, and Meghan Valley, Assistant Vice President—Community Affairs, US Bank.
Their insights, leadership, and unique blend of experience, vision, and passion will help propel Kerr forward. Together, we will collectively embrace Kerr’s mission, ensuring the clients we serve lead self-determined lives in their communities.
Gratitude for Generous Support
It is with overwhelming gratitude that I share some of the recent generosity extended to Kerr. These gifts signify not just financial support but a deep belief in our mission and the people we serve. My sincerest thanks to all!
• Walen Construction has graciously become Kerr’s Planned Giving sponsor.
• Bank of America has kindly pledged to match the first $5,000 in donations for first-time donors and those who have not contributed in over a year, amplifying the impact of each contribution. To donate, click here.
• Juan Young Trust has generously donated funds to support Kerr’s Crisis Psychiatric Care for Youth.
Landmark Achievement for Kerr
On July 27, the Portland Business Journal honored Kerr’s Wynne Watts Commons with the prestigious Landmark Award. We celebrated this remarkable achievement with our partners from Edlen & Co., Pence Construction, Ankrom Moisan Architects, and Green Hammer Design Build. This sustainable and inclusive housing development is changing lives for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities for the better. (Pictured: Kerr Chief Financial Officer Kevin McAdams holds award and joins Kerr Chief Development Officer Scott Shlaes and our Wynne Watts Commons partners)
Celebrating Psych Tech Impact
August 9th was National Psychiatric Technician Appreciation Day. I want to express my profound gratitude for the invaluable contributions of Kerr’s Psych Techs. These dedicated professionals are pivotal in supporting the day-to-day mental health and wellness of the kids in our psychiatric inpatient care facility.
Kerr’s Fun Zone Keeps Rolling
August delivered another Kerr Fun Zone gathering at Kerr Bikes & Boats. These moments, where we blend work and play, reinforce the close-knit bond that defines Kerr. I have enjoyed these summertime activities and look forward to more joyous occasions where our organization can unite and celebrate as one community.
Project SEARCH Signing Day
On September 6th, another Project SEARCH internship cohort at Multnomah County’s Department of County Services will kick off with an official “Signing Day.” This exciting event marks the start of a transformative journey for our interns and underscores our continued collaboration with Multnomah County in fostering opportunities and championing potential.
Among our recent successes is Molly Murphy, a Project SEARCH graduate from July, who will utilize her newly acquired skills in her role as a companion-level caregiver at Cedar Sinai Park in Raleigh Hills this September. She, along with several other graduates, is forging a path forward to lead a self-determined life.
Housing Oregon: Exploring Kerr’s Visionary Project
September 26th, I will be a panelist and presenter at the Housing Oregon Annual Conference, sharing the impact of Kerr’s universally accessible, affordable, and sustainable housing project, Wynne Watts Commons. A huge thanks to the Kuni Foundation for putting together the panel and for my co-panelists from ECONorthwest, Community Vision and Peace NW (People Empowered & Communities Enhanced). Housing Oregon ensures all Oregonians have a healthy and stable place to live. This incredible organization advocates for programs and policies to expand affordable housing on the local and state levels.
Join Me! PBJ’s October Power Breakfast
I’m excited to share that I will represent Kerr on the nonprofit panel at the Portland Business Journal’s Power Breakfast on October 12th. Join us as we discuss the social impact landscape and the future of community engagement. Hope to see you there! For tickets, click here.
Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to our shared vision. Let’s continue to drive Kerr’s mission forward, inspired by the boundless potential I see in our dedicated team and the communities we serve.
Sincerely,
Allison Stark
CEO, Albertina Kerr