The NWBuzz Newsletter | September 2023

Back 2 School

Empowering Education: HOST Paves the Way for Young Adults’ Returning to School with Vital Resources

KayLynn Gesner

In a world where every act of kindness and support counts, the dedicated team the CoC’s Youth & Young Adult subcommittee, comprised of community agencies in Marion & Polk County who serve vulnerable youth and young adults experiencing homelessness. This group is going above and beyond to make a lasting impact on the lives of our community’s youth experiencing homelessness.

Imagine the power of a simple pencil pouch—a small, seemingly ordinary item that has the potential to hold something much more valuable than just writing tools. The team recognized this potential and embarked on a mission to provide youth in need with not only the tools for education but also a lifeline of local resource information.

In a remarkable display of teamwork and dedication, the team gathered pencil pouches with essential local resource information. These pouches, brimming with valuable details about shelters, food services, healthcare, education, and more, are now ready to be distributed to youth experiencing homelessness/ couch surfers throughout Salem.

The impact of this initiative extends

far beyond the immediate Each pouch becomes a symbol of hope and a tangible reminder that they are not alone—there is a caring community ready to stand beside them, every step of the way.

We’re thrilled to introduce KayLynn Gesner as our new Homeless Services Program Manager at HOAP. With a remarkable blend of passions and experiences, she brings a fresh perspective to our team. We asked a few question to get to know her better:

•If you could master any skill instantly, what would it be and why? 100% the ability to learn a new language.

•If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be and why? Lost Again - I am notorious for getting extremely lost and just driving or wandering around until I figure it out.

•How do you like to spend your time outside of work? I enjoy traveling and going on mini road trips. I also love food, so I like to find new restaurants or cook new dishes.

•What book, movie, music, etc. changed your outlook on life? The short story “The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas” by Ursula K. Le Guin

Let’s extend a warm welcome to KayLynn Gesner!

Smart Strategies for School Safety

Gotta Catch ‘Em All and Stay Protected!

It’s that time of year again where the weather turns cooler in the mornings, the days begin to get shorter, and the kiddos go back to school. Soon we’ll be seeing the bright yellow buses on the roads, parents walking their children to school, and kids/teens riding their bikes to school. No matter the mode of transportation, it is best to be always aware of our surroundings and be safe in our daily commutes, especially throughout the school year and it’s never too late to start these good safety habits for the whole family.

Walking Tips:

• Walk on sidewalks, if available; on the street facing the traffic if one is not available.

• Before crossing streets, stop and look to the left, then right, and then to the left again to see if it is clear of cars to cross.

• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing to ensure they acknowledge you are crossing and stop.

• Always cross at crosswalks and intersections.

• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings and avoid distracted walking.

Bike Ride Tips

• Always ride on the right side of the road, with the flow of traffic and in a single file line.

• Come to a complete stop before crossing the street and walk the bikes across the street.

• Stay alert, aware of the surroundings always and avoid distracted riding.

• Make sure that the child’s helmet is properly fitted and always worn while riding.

• Bright colored clothing is best to be seen day or night while on public streets and roadways.

Back to School Facts:

4- to 7-year-old children are at greater risk of losing their lives in bus related accidents when walking. They are hit by the bus, or by an inpatient motorist illegally passing a stopped bus. (National Safety Council)

Teens are at the greatest risk of being hit while walking largely due to distractions from cellphones. (National

Safety Council)

Bus Riding Tips:

• Go to the bus stop with your child and prac tice with them the proper way to get on and off the bus.

• Teach your child to stand 3 big steps away from the curb.

• If your child must cross the street to get to the bus stop, help them learn to walk on the side of the road until they are about 10 feet ahead of the bus so the driver and child can always see each other when they cross the road.

In 2015, more than 1 in 4 crashes in school zones involved teens 15 - 19 years old. And car crashes are the No. 1 cause of death for teens. (Oregon Dept. of Transportation & National Safety Council)

Bicycling is a common mode of transportation for students, but many do not wear helmets. Wearing a helmet

reduces the risk of head injury by 45% and the risk of brain injury by 33%. (Safe Kids Worldwide)

School zones are designed to ensure the safety of students, yet many drivers exceed speed limits in these areas. A study found that during school zone hours, 14% of vehicles exceeded the speed limit by at least 10 mph. (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)

Welcome

New Board Member

Ana Lopez is a remarkable individual who has transformed her life’s challenges into a source of strength and inspiration. Her journey from homelessness and addiction to becoming a dedicated advocate for the unsheltered community showcases her resilience and determination to make a positive impact.

Ana’s encounter with HOAP proved to be a turning point in her life. During her difficult times of homelessness and battling addiction, HOAP extended a helping hand that ultimately changed the course of her life. Finding solace and support within the organization, Ana made the decision to volunteer with HOAP, with the goal of rebuilding her life and giving back to those facing similar struggles.

Through her unwavering commitment, Ana achieved a remarkable milestone, celebrating her sobriety since March 2021. Currently serving as an Outreach Case Manager at Church at the Park, Ana dedicates herself to aiding the unsheltered community. She embodies the concept of meeting people where they are at, assisting them with fundamental needs, detoxification, housing solutions, and beyond.

Ana’s role extends beyond the boundaries of a single organization. Collaborating with entities such as the NWHS nurse outreach team and various other organizations, she exemplifies the power of partnerships in addressing complex societal issues. By uniting different resources and expertise, Ana ensures that the unsheltered community receives holistic support that comprehensively addresses their needs.

Recognizing Ana’s profound dedication and influence, she was appointed to the board of directors in July 2023. This new role allows her to serve as a representative of the unsheltered population, ensuring their voices are heard and their unique challenges are addressed at the strategic level.

Ana Lopez’s journey is a testament to the transformative potential of hope, resilience, and community support. Her life story inspires individuals from all walks of life to overcome obstacles, foster compassion, and work towards positive change. Welcome to the Board of Directors!

Jacob Johnston at the West Salem Clinic Open House

HOST Summer Party (Patrick McDermott - kneeling, Amanda Foster and Amy Rodriguez)

Patient Appreciation Day during National Healthcare Center Week

NW Wellness

Wellness Enthusiasts! September unfolds with a powerful message of adaptation and transformation. In a world that has seen its fair share of shifts—both within organizations and communities—this month calls us to reflect on our responses to change. Buckle up, because it’s time for some wellness exploration!

From leadership transitions to novel programs, evolving community dynamics, and a charged political landscape, we’ve experienced a whirlwind of change. So, let’s take a breather and ponder: How have we weathered these storms of change? What’s been our toolkit for adaptation?

As we embark on this month’s wellness journey, our mission is clear: to equip you with the tools to not just navigate, but embrace change. We’re diving into the realms of resilience, effective communication, patience, and finding the silver lining in transformation. Expect a treasure trove of tips and insights every week—because change is everywhere, and we’re in it together!

September is the month to embrace change and steer our wellness ship towards calmer waters. We’re diving headfirst into the dimensions that matter. Stay tuned for a month of empowerment, resilience, and growth!

NWHS Dental

Providing Comprehensive & Inclusive Dental Care

Challenge Alert!

In the spirit of adaptation, we have a challenge that focus on the aspects you can control. Amidst the chaos of change, take a moment to complete one of the “8 Dimensions of Wellness Cards” (located on the NWHS intranet under Wellness). Let’s channel our energies into what empowers us.

Send in your completed cards by month’s end to join our monthly drawing! Email your completed card to kkuenz-barber@nwhumanservices.org Get ready to showcase your wellness in these dimensions:

Emotional Wellness: How are you nurturing your emotional self?

Financial Wellness: What strides are you making to secure your financial health?

Social Wellness : How are your connections and relationships flourishing?

Spiritual Wellness: What feeds your spiritual growth and contentment?

Occupational Wellness: How are you balancing work satisfaction and personal growth?

Physical Wellness: What steps are you taking for your physical well-being?

Intellectual Wellness: How do you engage and stimulate your mind?

Environmental Wellness: How are you contributing to a healthier environment?

The dental department located within the West Salem Clinic is making waves in the community with its commitment to delivering exceptional dental care that goes beyond boundaries. From offering services to both registered patients and non-patients, to reserving time for unhoused individuals and emergencies, the dental department is setting a new standard for accessible and compassionate oral health services.

Breaking Down Barriers to Care

One of the hallmarks of the dental department is its dedication to inclusivity. Breaking away from the conventional model, the clinic extends its services to individuals (even if you are not patients of the West Salem Clinic/THCC), proving that quality dental care is within reach for everyone. This forward-thinking approach highlights the department’s belief in the importance of oral health for the overall well-being of the community.

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Helping Hand for the Unhoused

Our dental department is not only focused on traditional patient care but also recognizes the needs of the unhoused population. The department allocates specific time slots twice a week to ensure that unhoused individuals can receive essential dental care. This initiative not only addresses the oral health needs of this vulnerable group but also underscores the department’s dedication to fostering a more equitable healthcare landscape.

Rapid Response to Emergencies

Dental emergencies can strike unexpectedly, causing discomfort and distress. The dental department understands the urgency of these situations and allocates time on its daily schedule for emergency cases. This swift response ensures that patients in pain or facing urgent oral health issues can receive immediate attention from the skilled dental team.

Meet the Dedicated Team

At the heart of the NWHS dental department is a team of professionals who are passionate about delivering exceptional care. Leading the way are Dr. Manabe and Dr. Soriano, along with Wendy Riggi, RDH, who bring a wealth of expertise to the clinic. Supporting them are dental assistants April Payseno, Heather Aerni, Alondra Arellano, Jessica Coronado Sternot, and Adrienne Renn, who play a crucial role in ensuring a seamless patient experience. Michael Herzberg, the Dental Manager, keeps the department’s operations running smoothly.

Dr. Soriano

988 | Spotlight on Hotline

Northwest Human Services (NWHS) has provided Marion and Polk counties comprehensive and integrated medical, dental, mental health and social services for 50 years. Its Crisis & Information Hotline, which is now a part of the nationwide 988 system, provides 24-hour crisis support and suicide intervention as well as limited emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities and prescription medications.

NWHS used a grant from Cambia Health Foundation to support, develop and grow its Hotline team ahead of the launch of the 988 system in July 2022. In addition to hiring and training new staff members, NWHS invested in training and self-care opportunities for its current staff, including:

Six crisis line staff members attended the 56th annual American Association of Suicidology conference in Portland to connect with other suicide and crisis line professionals and bring back inspiration and knowledge to the rest of the NWHS team. The conference focused on various aspects of suicide prevention including advancing culturally appropriate prevention efforts, strength-based prevention through the Sources of Strength model, healing after suicide loss, the future of suicide prevention technology and other highlights related to crisis services including 988 updates and opportunities.

NWHS bought new laptops and monitors to offer its staff workplace flexibility. The option to work remotely is a draw for recruiting staff and allows current employees to keep the crisis line open through weather-related restrictions. In the office, a space within the hotline department has been designated as a Zen and decompression area. The room was designed with direct input from the staff and made possible by Cambia Health Foundation funding. Hotline staff members now have a place to relax and re-group after difficult or intense calls. The support of NWHS was among more than $300,000 in

investments the Cambia Health Foundation made a year ago to support the launch of the national 988 dial code, which helps address the need for mental health support.

Previously known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline system, 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers an easy-to-remember number that directs callers to local nonprofits with extensive experience in suicide and crisis helpline work. The Foundation’s support of 988 is part of a broader commitment to expanding access to mental health services across its four-state footprint of Idaho, Oregon, Utah and Washington.

“This funding from Cambia Health Foundation allowed us to invest in our staff and we anticipate the dividends will pay for years to come as the Hotline Team continues to develop and grow,” said Arielle Schultz, director of compliance and grants management with Northwest Human Services.

Often, our colleagues humbly attribute their exceptional efforts to merely fulfilling their responsibilities. But we know better—it’s about the compassion, dedication, and empathy they infuse into their work, leaving a lasting impact. The new staff Kudo’s email is your chance to turn the spotlight onto those who consistently exceed expectations. Have you witnessed a coworker going above and beyond? Perhaps it’s a nurse who eases patients’ worries with an extra touch, a receptionist whose warm smile brightens everyone’s day, or a therapist providing unwavering support, or amazing workers in facilities. Now, you have an email to submit your words to acknowledge and appreciate these exceptional contributions.

If you notice a peer who deserves recognition, send an email to kudos@nwhumanservices.org. Share your experience and why you believe they deserve appreciation. These nominations will be celebrated alongside the Applause Cards at our all-staff meetings!

Community Awards

Cultivating a Culture of Care: Triumphs of Dedication and Recognition

Our Northwest Human Services team stands out in a league of its own, driven by a unique sense of camaraderie and compassion. Among this group of exceptional individuals, a community of caring humans, it’s important to recognize that our actions do not go unnoticed, even when we may not realize it. This truth became even more evident as two of our outstanding staff members were not only nominated but also emerged victorious, securing

2023 MAPS Community Award

Let’s give a warm round of applause to Kat Lee, the proud recipient of the 2023 MAPS Community Award! Kat’s unwavering dedication to serving our community has earned her this prestigious recognition, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to celebrate her well-deserved achievement. The award is an inspiration of how you give back to our community through their volunteerism or work.

With her $1,000 grant award, Kat is making an incredible impact by directing her generosity towards purchasing new “Jeans for HOAP Clients”. Her choice exemplifies the true essence of giving back—offering tangible support and empowerment to those in need.

Kat, your dedication is an inspiration to us all, and your commitment to uplifting others serves as a guiding light in our community. Thank you for embodying the spirit of NWHS and for showing us the true power of kindness and generosity.

Let’s join in congratulating Kat Lee for her remarkable achievement and for using her award to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of others.

2023 OPCA Advocacy Award

Shanta’ Frisbee’s advocacy is firmly rooted in her dedicated service to underserved communities. Her proactive stance in tailoring services to address the unique needs to our vulnerable populations has earned her significant recognition. Through her advocacy, Frisbee has effectively heightened awareness about the disparities faced by young adults These accomplishments are key factors contributing to her well-deserved selection for the prestigious OPCA CHC Advocacy Award.

Each year, the Oregon Primary Care Association (OPCA) takes the opportunity to honor one individual within the community health centers who have exhibited exceptional dedication in providing services to communities that often lack access to essential care. This year, the spotlight falls on Shanta’ Frisbee, who is set to receive the CHC Advocacy Award. The recognition underscores her outstanding contributions and resonates with her commitment to creating a positive impact. Shanta’ Frisbee will be present at the upcoming OPCA Annual Meeting in September, where her remarkable achievements will be celebrated and acknowledged. Let’s join in congratulting Shanta’ Frisbee for her remarkable achievements and for making a lasting positive impact on the lives of others.

Sponsorship Events

Upcoming Events:

September 13th, YMCA Veteran’s Stand Down

September 16th, Marion Square Skate Park Punx in the Park

October 14th, Chemeketa Community College | Binational Health Fair

October 14th, Riverfront Park American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Out of the Darkness Walk

October 24th, Willamette Heritage Center, The Mill, NWHS Annual Meeting

October TBA, West Salem Clinic Trunk or Treat

Be Part of the Buzz!

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Let’s create together – one story, one idea, one picture, and one event at a time. Submit to NW Buzz Newsletter today!

Salem Pride Sponsorship, August 26, 2023 Riley Crowder and Koua Cha

NWHS is a proud Prevention Sponsor of the Out of the Darkness Walk