Dear Friend of Kerr,
April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month—a time to reflect on how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go. The recent tragic death of an Idaho teen with autism and cerebral palsy is deeply upsetting and underscores just how critical it is to build a more compassionate and informed society—one where all people are seen, supported, and valued. At Kerr, we’re working every day to make that vision a reality.
We’re wrapping up our Project SEARCH at Nike World Headquarters in June and this fall, we’re launching a new Project SEARCH partnership with Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center. While it’s hard to say goodbye to the participants at Nike, we’re so excited to introduce another cohort of young adults with I/DD to the opportunity to develop job skills and gain real-world experience in an inclusive, supportive environment. Applications will be available soon.
On April 16, our advocacy for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) continues—this time at a crucial Joint Committee on Ways and Means. We will once again join the Oregon Resource Association and providers from across the state to urge legislators to include funding for DSP wages in the state budget. Kerr and other providers can’t raise wages independently—state investment is essential. Help send a unified message to Value the Work. Raise DSP Wages by submitting written testimony. Here are talking points to help create your message.
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Kerr is hosting an important conversation about the mental health needs of youth with I/DD. Join us and an outstanding panel of leaders, including:
• Representative Rob Nosse, Chair, House Behavioral Health and Healthcare Committee
• Dr. Ajit Jetmalani, Director of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, OHSU
• Chelsea Holcomb, Child and Family Behavioral Health Director, Oregon Health Authority
• Dr. Robin Henderson, Chief Executive, Behavioral Health, Providence, Oregon, and Chief Clinical Officer, Work2BWell
• Stephanie Scovil, Director of Mental Health Services, Albertina Kerr
Space is limited—register here to reserve your spot.
Thanks to a generous donor, we’re replacing three aging hot water heaters at our Crisis Psychiatric Care facility, ensuring a safe, comfortable environment for youth in crisis.
Dr. Naomi Fishman, Medical Director of Kerr’s Subacute program, was recently invited to serve as a mentor through the prestigious Klingenstein Fellowship at OHSU. We’re excited about the connections and impact this opportunity brings.
Kerr Bikes is now open for the season. With a variety of cycling options—including adaptive bikes—your ride supports our mission. Proceeds benefit Kerr programs. Check out bike options, hours, and locations here.
Last week, I attended ANCOR Connect ’25, representing Oregon on the ANCOR Board of Representatives. As a national advocate for providers supporting individuals with I/DD, ANCOR plays a vital role in advancing inclusive policies and strengthening our collective impact.
Thank you for your continued support. Together, we’re creating a more compassionate, inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Warmly,
Allison Stark
CEO, Albertina Kerr
Pictured above: Kerr’s Inclusive Day Services participants tour KPTV Fox12; In collage: The people we support volunteering at the ReBuilding Center, cooking, touring, and enjoying the circus and Oregon Coast, Kerr Senior Leaders advocating for DSP wages at State Budget Hearing)