Dear Friend of Kerr,
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month—a time to uplift the voices, rights, and contributions of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. While this month brings attention to inclusion, at Kerr it reflects a year‑round commitment: everyone deserves to be heard, respected, and included. This year’s theme, “Nothing About Us Without Us,” underscores the importance of ensuring people with I/DD are at the center of decisions that shape their lives—something we strive to honor every day by supporting choice, recognizing strengths, and creating opportunities for people to live, work, learn, and participate fully in their communities.
Earlier this week, Kerr team members joined the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities (OCDD) for an unforgettable DD Awareness celebration at the Capitol. It was an inspiring day in Salem—great speakers, powerful stories, and a shared commitment to inclusion. Huge thanks to OCDD, the Oregon Self Advocacy Coalition, Oregon Department of Human Services, and The Arc Oregon for hosting such a strong event. And a big shout‑out to Kerr’s own Lenni Rodman, Self-Advocacy Specialist, and Kate Darnell, Advocacy Manager, for representing us so well.
We’re excited to share that Albertina Kerr has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Portland Business Journal Social Impact Award. This recognition reflects nearly 120 years of programs and supports that strengthen Oregon communities through workforce development, housing access, disability supports, and mental health care.
I was grateful for the recent opportunity to participate on a panel hosted by the Nonprofit Association of Oregon, with support from the MJ Murdock Charitable Trust, exploring “Strategic Restructuring: Nonprofit Consolidations.” It was a timely and thoughtful conversation about how nonprofits can partner more effectively to strengthen impact. Thank you to NAO and the Murdock Trust for bringing us together.
Our Governing Board recently gathered with Kerr’s Senior Leadership Team for a two-day retreat focused on Kerr’s future. I’m grateful for their leadership and commitment to a strong, person-centered path forward. We identified three priorities to guide our work:
- Transforming Quality: Delivering innovative, person-centered services grounded in strong data and high standards.
- Elevating Staff: Attracting and retaining talented people while fostering a positive, mission-driven culture.
- Expanding Impact: Pursuing thoughtful growth and diversified revenue to serve more Oregonians.
The Oregon Legislature wrapped up its short session on March 6 with a budget plan that protects core I/DD services. The major cuts that were anticipated did not proceed based on a revised, more positive, revenue forecast and a partial disconnect from the federal tax code that will bring in more dollars than originally anticipated. While this is excellent news for the upcoming fiscal year we anticipate significant challenges moving into 2027 through 2029. Thank you to everyone who advocated for the people Kerr supports.
February was full of meaningful connections. At Lazy Days Brewing Co., guests heard from Dean, who is part of Kerr’s Supported Employment program and now works at the brewery. He shared his story, spoke about the value of meaningful work, and introduced Dean’s List, the beer he helped create. Co-owner Ryan Still also spoke about the importance of inclusive hiring. We appreciate Cutting Edge Credit Union for underwriting this event.
We also felt deeply touched by the former Albertina’s Place volunteers who hosted their Second Annual Galentine’s Tea Party. Their joyful celebration with friends raised nearly $2,000 for Kerr’s mission. Their continued generosity—rooted in years of service at Albertina’s Place—speaks to the lasting connections and community that surround Kerr.
Please join us on May 27. As part of our A Conversation series, we’ll host A Conversation: When Neurodiversity and Mental Health Converge—an evening with child and adolescent psychiatrists and developmental pediatricians exploring the unique insights, questions, and care approaches that emerge at this important intersection for young people. Reserve your spot here.
Thank you for standing with Kerr. Your support strengthens voices, creates opportunities, and expands what’s possible every day.
Warmly,
Allison Stark
Chief Executive Officer
Albertina Kerr
**PHOTOS:** Cover photo: Kerr’s Inclusive Day Services participants enjoy a day of bowling
**Collage:** First row (left to right): Kerr staff celebrate DD Awareness at the Capitol in Salem
Second row (left to right): Kerr’s Governing Board and Senior Leadership Team gather for a retreat focused on Kerr’s future
Third row (left to right): Former Albertina Place volunteers attend Galentine’s Tea Party benefiting Kerr; A toast to Dean by Lazy Days Brewing Co-Owner Ryan Still and guests
Fourth row (left to right): Kerr’s Inclusive Day Services participants tour the Beaverton Police Department; An individual supported by Kerr visits the Oregon Zoo
Fifth row (left to right): An individual supported by Kerr visits Highland cows at a farm in La Center, WA; Kerr CEO Allison Stark presents at Nonprofit Association of Oregon Forum
Sixth row (left to right): Kerr team with individuals supported by Kerr share stories of impact at the Kerr Governing Board retreat