DonorNewsletter
Message to You from our President & CEO
As we enter a new season, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to you, our community of donors, partners, and advocates, who make Easterseals Oregon’s mission possible every day. Your generosity unlocks opportunities for children, adults, veterans, and seniors across Oregon.
Every day, we witness the ripple effect of your support. One of our Veterans recently received stable housing through our program, a milestone that completely restored his sense of security and purpose So moved by the care and support he received, he reached out to become a monthly donor himself There’s no greater proof of impact than when someone we’ve helped chooses to give back, paying forward the opportunity they received
This quarter, we’ve continued advancing our strategic plan developing talent, programs, optimizing systems, and strengthening the funding that sustains it a These efforts, combined with your belief in our mission, are creating lasting pa to independence and inclusion.
As we look ahead, I invite you to continue walking beside us. Together, w creating communities where everyone is valued, supported, and empowe to thrive.
Kristen Rantz President & CEO
Willamette Valley, OR
Donor Spotlight: Joanne Langley
How One Mom Chose
to Carry Her Son’s Light Forward
The day Christopher Langley was born, doctors told his mom, Jo, that her son “Would never live to be one month old.”
Cerebral Palsy left him quadriplegic at birth, “I made a promise that day to God,” she told us. “If you keep my child alive, I will do anything and everything I can to give him the best life possible.”
It worked. Chris lived for 43.3 years, and Jo kept her promise every single day. She was his round-theclock sole caregiver, managing tube feedings, oxygen, and even a backup generator to keep him safe during outages She got him through two other major health episodes, when he almost died both times, and helped him live with additional major complications in his physical health.
She helped him overcome profound disappointment, too, like when he was chosen from his High School Senior Class to serve as an intern in Washington, D C It was a huge honor, but he was not able to attend the summer-long event due to his medical fragility and the inaccessibility of the nation’s capital
Together, they decided to focus on finding the joy and humor of life at all times. One day, when he saw his mom on stage, opening for a comedian, he laughed hilariously and decided to become a stand-up comedian himself “He was so much like Alex P Keaton from the TV show, Family Ties, ” she says “He loved politics He volunteered on campaigns He had a brilliant mind, and he loved making people laugh He always had a smile on his face, despite the physical pain he was in. He was the greatest joy of my life.”
As an adult, Chris fell in love with Susan, who was also born with cerebral palsy. Susan often told Chris and Jo how attending Easterseals Oregon’s Summer Camp was one of the greatest experiences of her life, the first place she felt pure belonging, independence, and joy The stories she told about Camp Easterseals and what it meant to her left a deep impression on Chris and Jo.
When Chris passed away at 43.3 years, Jo wanted to honor her son in a way that would create joy for others. She made the extraordinary decision to include Easterseals Oregon in her will, designating a generous portion of her estate to establish camp scholarships for children with disabilities
“Chris taught me that joy is possible in every season,” Jo says. “I want other children with disabilities and families to know this is possible, and to feel that joy, too.”
Our profound gratitude to Jo Langley Her thoughtful planned gift will carry her son’s light forward, sending countless children with disabilities to camp, where they will be seen, included, and celebrated, and where the joy they experience will stay with them forever.
Evidence of Your Life-Changing Generosity and Impact
From Ana’s Story
Ana was born in rural Mexico with profound hearing loss that went undiagnosed. Because she couldn’t hear, she never learned to speak. Her parents, who had no formal education, didn’t know help existed. Out of fear and love, they kept her hidden from the world, believing it was the only way to protect her.
Years later, after legally immigrating to Oregon with her parents, Ana married and became a mother of two beautiful daughters But her disability left her vulnerable, and she endured years of abuse in silence. It wasn’t until her daughters grew older and their caring teacher noticed Ana’s bruises and asked questions that the truth came out. That teacher connected Ana with Easterseals Oregon because what Maria wanted most was the opportunity to work and experience independence After a medical evaluation, Ana received hearing aids, and for the first time in her life, was able to hear She could hear her daughters’ voices and began to form words of her own.
Through Easterseals Oregon, Ana was hired by a production company to install cabinets for RVs. She moved with her daughters into a safe home and began a new life filled with dignity and independence
When she returned to thank Easterseals Oregon, tears streaming down her face, she said she finally felt seen, heard, and free.
Thank you for what you made possible for Ana and so many others. Your generosity clearly provides life-changing support for adults living with disabilities and their children.
From Claudia’s Family
Claudia was referred to us by the Commission for the Blind after losing her vision due to a medical condition. When she first came, she was ashamed of herself and had very little self-esteem, but she told us she dreamed of working in an office environment.
After getting to know her and seeing how wonderful she was, we offered her a position as a receptionist. Together with the Commission for the Blind, we coordinated all necessary accommodations to enable her to succeed in her role
Claudia quickly became one of the most amazing receptionists we’ve ever worked with. She was fast, kind, and always willing to help everyone. She was grateful for the opportunity and expressed it every single day. Sadly, after a few months, Claudia passed away due to complications from diabetes
Soon after, her daughter came with a card signed by her family, thanking Easterseals Oregon and our donors for “giving life back to their mom.”
Her daughter told us, “My mother was the happiest in her life when she was at Easterseals. She died happy knowing there are beautiful people who care about others and give to make a difference in this world.”
Thankyou
Words of Gratitude to You from Those We Serve
From Veterans From Seniors
I never imagined I’d be homeless. But your support helped me land a job and a place to live. You gave me a second life. Thank you.
– Ronald, U S Navy Veteran
There were many days I didn’t want to go on. Easterseals Oregon helped me remember why I should. I thank all those who give to Easterseals Oregon, who care about helping Veterans who need help restarting their lives.
– Kayla, U S Marine Corps Veteran
You helped put a roof over my head But more than that, you gave me a reason to believe I mattered. Thank you.
– Zach, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran
People thank us for our service, but it’s donors like you who truly thank Veterans. Your support helped me survive the hardest year of my life I now have hope, a home, and a job again Thank you
– Karen, U S Army Veteran
Easterseals Oregon restored something in me that I thought was gone forever. It’s hard to say ‘thank you’ to your staff and donors in a way that feels big enough. From complete despair to dignity. That’s the journey you helped me take. So grateful to you
– Anonymous, Vietnam Veteran
I had been a successful high school teacher for years. Suddenly, I was old and not worthy of a job I had to give up my car I walked the streets of Portland alone, depressed, and in physical pain. Why was I still even on the planet? What good was my life?
Miraculously, I was connected to Easterseals Oregon. That SINGLE CONNECTION opened a whole new world for me I was no longer “just another old woman” with no purpose and no meaning Easterseals Oregon gave me a reason to get up in the morning, a job, and an income. Through its staff's kindness, patience, and support, I began to believe that my remaining life might still have value and that, despite my age, I am still a decent and good person worthy of respect.
Your support of Easterseals Oregon gives an important and almost forgotten segment of our population a real and significant chance to see a future, to have a future, to develop new relationships, to keep learning, and to stay alive. Thank you.
– Anonymous
I am 55. I have not been able to make ends meet for years. I ended up living in my car. I thought about ending my life, but somehow, I found Easterseals Oregon This organization gave me the training and confidence I needed to return to the workforce and earn a living I am thriving now because of the help I received and because of the people who give to make Easterseals Oregon possible. I am still here. I am thriving because of you. You saved my life. Thank you.
– Anonymous
Great News
U.S. Representatives Visit
On September 25, 2025, we proudly welcomed U S Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Ted Lieu (CA-36) to our Salem Center, where they spent the morning listening to Veterans share their stories of resilience, recovery, and renewed purpose Both Representatives commended the impact of Easterseals Oregon’s services, which help hundreds of unhoused Veterans rebuild their live and regain stability and independence each year
Easterseals Oregon Named One of 100 Best Nonprofits In Oregon
For the second year in a row, Easterseals Oregon has been named one of the “100 Best Nonprofits to Work for in Oregon” by Oregon Business magazine! The honor reflects Easterseals Oregon’s deep commitment to building a positive, heart-led workplace culture where employees feel valued, supported, and inspired to serve This recognition also reflects the contributions of donors and partners who help make a thriving, missiondriven workplace possible.
Easterseals Oregon Receives The Highest Level of Recognition
Easterseals Oregon has received a prestigious three-year accreditation from CARF International the highest level of recognition for health and human service organizations. This achievement affirms our commitment to excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement across every program we offer. For those we serve, CARF accreditation means quality and trust For our donors, it means confidence that your gifts support programs that meet the highest standards of care and impact Thank you for making this milestone possible. Your support helps Easterseals Oregon lead with compassion, integrity, and excellence.
Easterseals Oregon has been named a winner of the Portland Business Journal’s 2025 Impact Award, recognizing organizations that have made extraordinary contributions to the region’s economy and workforce over the past two years. This recognition honors our Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), which helps lowincome older adults across Oregon gain job training, digital skills, and confidence to thrive in today’s workforce. This award belongs to you, our donors, partners, and staff, who make this life-changing work possible every day.
Winner of the 2025 Impact Award
More Great News
A New Website Launched
Our new website is a more accessible, user-friendly hub for donors, partners, and participants. The site reflects our mission of inclusion and empowerment, offering easier access to services, ways to give, and stories that highlight the lives changed through your support. Visit oregon.easterseals.com to explore our renewed digital home.
You Can Now Make Gifts of Non-Cash Assets Directly and Easily to Easterseals Oregon
We can now directly accept gifts of Stock, DAF, Crypto, and Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from IRAs through our new website and secure online tools provided by FreeWiell.
Visit oregon easterseals com and under “Other Ways to Give,” find information on how to make these gifts online, directly and easily.
Or, scan this QR code with your smartphone.
Questions? Email Ellen Catania at ecatania@or.easterseals.com or call 503-686-9354
Thank you
Century 21 North Homes Realty Comes Through Once Again!
Under sunny Central Oregon skies, teams gathered for the 2nd Annual Century 21 Croquet Tournament benefiting Easterseals Oregon, a day filled with laughter, community spirit, and friendly competition. Hosted by our longtime partners at Century 21 North Homes Realty, the event raised vital support for programs that help children and adults with disabilities, Veterans, seniors, and families thrive across Central Oregon
“We’re deeply grateful to Century 21 for their incredible partnership and to everyone who came out to play for a purpose,” said Kristen Rantz, President & CEO of Easterseals Oregon.
A special thank-you to Gail Rogers (Coldwell Banker Bain), Patrick Smith, Michelle and Michael Kilmer (Century 21 North Homes Realty), and our generous sponsors: Cascade East Association of Realtors, The Greens Golf Course, and Coldwell Banker Bain, for making this year’s tournament a success Your participation turned a Fall day on the green into something even greater – hope and opportunity for those we serve throughout Central Oregon
Gail Rogers and Michael Kilmer
Christine Johnson, Patrick Smith and Chelsea Quinn from Century 21
Thanks to Everyone Who Supported Our Inaugural TopGolf Tournament
Easterseals Oregon’s first-ever TopGolf Tournament was a joyful first swing toward a new fall tradition of community, fun, and purpose! On October 16, 2025, supporters came together to raise vital funds for programs that help children and adults with disabilities, Veterans, seniors, and families thrive
Special thanks to Event Co-Chairs Levon McMullen and George Smeraglio, to our great sponsors, including Pacific Office Automation, The Standard, TopGolf Hillsboro, and Lytex Printing, and to all who formed teams, including Levon McMullen, Elizabeth Hutchison, Alan Crouch, Preisz Financial, the Nakajima Family, Benjamin Efran, Lori Conley, and Columbia Bank And, congratulations to the TopGolf Tournament Winner: Team CoorsTek!
Why I Give Why I Give
I give to Easterseals Oregon every month because I deeply believe in standing with families facing challenges that, by grace, mine have not had to face. My children and grandchildren are healthy. I don’t take that for granted. Supporting Easterseals is one of the ways I express my gratitude by helping make life a little easier, more joyful, and more full of opportunity for others. I know that the children and adults Easterseals Oregon serves are just as full of promise and potential as anyone, and I want to be part of a community that sees that and acts on it. Giving monthly to Easterseals Oregon is very meaningful to me. It’s a steady way to say: I see you, I care, and I want to help.
– Leianne Stinton
There are so many needs in the world. Some of these whisper to us while others speak more directly to our hearts. Easterseals Oregon's work really speaks to me. It's not just about offering help; it's about providing hope, dignity, and a real path forward for people who need it most. I'm particularly impressed by how their programs directly support individuals and by their team's dedication. Hearing about the waiting lists for Veterans' housing and scholarships for kids with disabilities is heartbreaking, but knowing my Donor-Advised Fund lets me respond immediately and make a tangible difference is incredibly rewarding It's such a smooth process, and it keeps me connected to the positive impact I’m making Easterseals Oregon is doing vital work, and I'm proud to be part of it.
– Elaine Lees
Please Be the Miracle Someone Needs This Holiday Season
Because of you, children and adults with disabilities, Veterans, and seniors across Oregon are finding hope, belonging, and the chance to thrive. You make it possible for someone to find meaningful work, a safe home, or the joy of inclusion that every child and adult deserves.
As the holidays approach, more Oregonians are struggling to stay afloat — Veterans seeking basic human needs like a safe place to live, seniors striving to re-enter the workforce to make ends meet, and families living on the edge of homelessness and hunger. Your gift, of any size, this season will open doors, transform lives, and remind someone that they are not forgotten and not alone.
Thank you for being the miracle someone needs, today and throughout the year.
Please read this message to you from our new
Board Chair
ed to introduce myself as the new Chair of the Easterseals Oregon Board of message to you is simple: thank you Your generosity is the steady hand hope we deliver to children and adults with disabilities, Veterans, seniors, served neighbors across Oregon.
Jennifer Sandberg Board Chair
s a pivotal one. Like many nonprofits, we’re rebuilding after significant nt funding cuts, even as needs continue to rise. I’ve seen our teams respond with grit and heart, helping Veterans find housing and employment, supporting older adults re-entering the workforce, and ensuring campers with disabilities experience the joy and confidence that come from being fully included Your gifts are the difference between ‘we wish we could’ and ‘we can.’
We’re also leaning into smart growth. In September, we launched our new website to make giving, volunteering, and finding services easier. We’re strengthening corporate partnerships and expanding monthly giving, because predictable support lets us plan boldly and serve consistently.
As we enter this season of gratitude, I invite you to deepen your impact and stand beside those we serve in one of these meaningful ways:
Join our President’s Council as a Founding Member by December 31, 2025, and help us rebuild the unrestricted funding that keeps hope alive and doors open for Oregonians in need.
Become a Monthly Donor, Your steady gift, even $10 a month, fuels life-changing services all year long, ensuring no one is left behind when help is needed most.
Champion a Corporate Partnership Connect Easterseals Oregon with your company, civic group, or network, and together we’ll multiply opportunity, inclusion, and hope across our communities.
Thank you for the trust you place in Easterseals Oregon. I’m excited for what we’ll achieve together this year, and grateful to partner with you to ensure that every Oregonian has the opportunity to thrive.
And from our new Board Vice Chair
Levon McMullen Board Vice Chair
I am deeply honored and excited to step into the role of Vice Chair on the Board of Directors for Easterseals of Oregon. My dedication to this organization is driven by a firm belief in its essential mission. I have seen firsthand the tangible, positive impact Easterseals has on the lives of people and their families across our state. We don't just provide services; we build more inclusive communities and empower individuals to achieve their goals.
Dedicating my time and resources is a privilege because I get to be part of that positive change. I look forward to supporting our leadership and advocating for the children, adults, and families who count on us. I am optimistic about our future and proud to be part of this vital work.
With Gratitude to You From Our Board of Directors
Jennifer Sandberg, Chair
Levon McMullen, Vice Chair CFP®, CPWA® Fidelity Investments
Jeff Ruby, Treasurer
Diane Rivera, Secretary Benchmade
Alan Crouch, Past Chair
Ryan Lunden The Standard
Meaghan Bradley-Bussell, CFA Becker Capital Management
LtCol Jim Cameron, USMC (Retired)
Rachel DeRosia Portland General Electric
Bryn Hokkanen
Melvin Mark Brokerage Co,
Elizabeth Hutchison PriceWaterhouseCoopers
Ardyce Moore, Emeritus Epsilon Sigma Alpha
Patrick Smith Century 21 North Homes Realty
Leianne Stinton Epsilon Sigma Alpha
Sharon Toncray Portland Public Schools
Bruce Whitaker, Emeritus Retired Easterseals CEO
Blake Whitson
Oregon Dept of Education and Oregon State Elks Association
Kristen Rantz, CMA, Ex Officio President & CEO, Easterseals Oregon
Danielle Gibson, Ex Officio Chief Financial Officer, Easterseals Oregon
237 NE Broadway, Suite 100
Portland, OR 97232
oregon.easterseals.com
Words of Gratitude to You from Parents of Campers
My son is nonverbal and uses a wheelchair We never thought he’d get to experience camp like other kids But Easterseals Oregon and your donors made it possible He came home beaming from his first time away from home, where he was 100% accepted, included, and celebrated. Please thank your donors for giving him a summer memory that he and I will cherish forever.
– Holly, mom of 12-year-old Michael*
We live paycheck to paycheck Summer camp was out of reach for us until several of your donors stepped up to provide a scholarship for him. My son got to go swimming and fishing, and to be surrounded by kids who didn’t judge him. That week changed his life. He came home more confident, happier, and full of stories about his new friends. I don’t know how to thank the donors who made this
– Rosa, mom of 14-year-old Julian*
After a year full of medical appointments and so much isolati camp gave my daughter joy again. She came home tired, hap That joy is thanks to Easterseals Oregon and your incredible so much about helping children with disabilities We are fore
– Hannah, mom of 14-year-old Rosie*
*Names changed to protect privacy
