ANNE 2024: A Gathering of Community Heroes in Albany

Last Thursday, Albany’s heart and soul were on full display at the Albany Non-Profit Networking Event (ANNE) 2024, held at the Boys and Girls Club on Hill St. This remarkable gathering brought together over 40 non-profit organizations, each dedicated to enriching our community and supporting our residents in various meaningful ways.

From 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, the Boys and Girls Club buzzed with energy and enthusiasm as community members had the unique opportunity to interact directly with representatives from a wide array of local non-profits. Whether visitors were drawn to a specific cause or were exploring the diverse range of services offered in our community, there was something for everyone.

From providing support to those facing difficult times to enriching our cultural landscape, the event highlighted the diverse ways these organizations make Albany a better place to live. As we delve into a short summary of each participating non-profit below, we invite you to discover how you can be a part of this vibrant community effort, whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word. Together, we can ensure the continued growth and well-being of our local Albany community.

First Christian Church

The First Christian Church in Albany emphasizes a community-focused approach, deeply rooted in spirituality and a strong commitment to justice. They offer a variety of community activities and services, including a book group and a community meal & care cupboard, where hot meals and personal care packs are served every Thursday. This reflects their dedication to addressing both spiritual and physical needs in the community.

For more detailed information, you can visit their website at First Christian Church Albany.

211 Info

211info is a vital resource for individuals in Oregon and Southwest Washington, offering connections to a wide range of services. They provide assistance in areas such as health, housing, food, and other essential services. By offering reliable and up-to-date information, 211info plays a key role in empowering and informing the community, ensuring easy access to necessary support.

For more information, you can visit their website at 211info.

ABC House

ABC House serves as a Children’s Advocacy Center for Benton and Linn Counties. They focus on providing assessments and support services for children and youth in situations of abuse and neglect. ABC House emphasizes the importance of prevention education to end child abuse, offering various free training sessions in both English and Spanish to the public, groups, organizations, and businesses. They also encourage community involvement and support through various programs and initiatives.

For more detailed information, you can visit their website at ABC House.

Albany Historic Carousel

The Albany Historic Carousel is a unique attraction in Albany, Oregon. It features a diverse menagerie of carousel animals, including a seven-foot tall giraffe, dogs, cats, zebras, unicorns, dragons, and more, totaling 52 animals. Housed in a restored 1909 Dentzel Carousel Corporation mechanism, the carousel has been meticulously brought back to life by a team of dedicated volunteers. The Carousel also encourages community involvement in various roles, including carving and painting the carousel animals, with training provided for volunteers. Additionally, the Carousel houses a museum and gift shop, further enriching the visitor experience.

For more information, visit their website at Albany Historic Carousel.

Albany Public Schools Foundation (APSF)

The Albany Public Schools Foundation (APSF) is dedicated to supporting education in Albany through various initiatives. They offer Big Impact Grants to fund collaborative and innovative projects involving two or more schools. These grants have been used for diverse purposes, such as purchasing musical instruments for elementary schools, providing Chromebooks and iPads for students, and initiating a Farm to School program. The APSF works closely with the Greater Albany Public School District to provide classroom grants, enrichment grants, scholarships, and student assistance programs.

For more detailed information, you can visit their website at Albany Public Schools Foundation.

Albany Police Dept

The Albany Police Department’s presence at the ANNE 2024 event is part of its ongoing commitment to community engagement and safety. The Albany Police Department, through various initiatives and collaborations, works towards ensuring a secure and supportive environment for the residents of Albany. Their involvement in community events like ANNE 2024 signifies their dedication to being an integral part of the local community, fostering trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the public.

For more information, you can visit the Albany Public Safety Foundation’s website at Albany Public Safety Foundation.

Albany Regional Museum

The Albany Regional Museum, established in 1980, is housed in a building constructed in 1887 and relocated to its current location at 2nd and Lyon, the former “Chinatown” area, in 1912. The museum’s inception was inspired by a slide show in 1978, leading to a concerted effort to preserve Albany’s history. Its establishment as a nonprofit was officially recognized in December 1980, with a board of directors formed shortly thereafter. The museum plays a crucial role in preserving and showcasing Albany’s rich history.

For more details, visit the Albany Regional Museum’s website.

Altrusa International of Albany

Altrusa International of Albany, Oregon, is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving local communities through leadership, partnership, and service. They focus on inspiring hope in youth for their future success and engage in a variety of service, literacy, fundraising, and international projects annually. The organization welcomes volunteers from different occupations and lifestyles, united by a common goal of community service and the fulfillment that comes from collaborative efforts.

For more information, visit their website at Altrusa International of Albany Oregon.

Boys & Girls Club of Albany

The Boys & Girls Club of Albany has a rich history dating back to the 1950s, with a focus on providing a supportive environment for youth in the community. Over the years, the club has expanded its facilities and programs to accommodate the growing needs of children and teenagers in Albany. They offer various programs, including after-school activities, athletics, and specialized programs for teens, all aimed at fostering development and providing safe, enriching experiences for young people.

For more detailed information, visit their website at Boys & Girls Club of Albany.

Calapooia Watershed Council

The Calapooia Watershed Council is dedicated to improving the health of the Calapooia River and its tributaries. They focus on various environmental initiatives, including habitat restoration, invasive species control, and promoting fish populations. Additionally, the council acknowledges the historical significance of the area as the traditional homeland of the Kalapuya people. Their work includes significant stakeholder engagement and educational programs to foster a better understanding of watershed management and its importance in the community.

For more information, visit Calapooia Watershed Council.

CARDV

The Center Against Rape and Domestic Violence (CARDV) provides critical support and resources to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. They operate a 24-hour crisis and support line, offer legal advocacy, emergency shelter, and crisis response. CARDV also conducts support groups for survivors and emphasizes the importance of community education to prevent violence. Their services are free, confidential, and focused on addressing the needs of survivors and their families in a safe and supportive environment.

For more information, visit CARDV.

CASA of Linn County

CASA of Linn County is dedicated to advocating for the best interests of abused and neglected children in the foster care system. Their mission involves providing professional training, support, and supervision to volunteer advocates. These Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) are essential in ensuring that each child’s individual needs remain a priority within the child welfare system. The organization emphasizes the importance of a stable and consistent adult presence in the lives of these children, working towards finding them safe and permanent homes.

For more information, visit their website at CASA of Linn County.

Christmas Storybook Land

Christmas Storybook Land in Albany, Oregon, is a non-profit organization that offers a unique Christmas experience. Their mission is to provide a festive, non-commercial environment that’s free for people of all ages to enjoy during the holiday season. They create an indoor Christmas forest wonderland featuring over 130 scenes from Mother Goose rhymes, children’s fairy tales, and family movies, including model train displays, a Victorian Village, and the North Pole with Santa Claus. While admission is free, they welcome donations of canned foods for the local food pantry, Fish of Albany.

For more information, visit Christmas Storybook Land.

Community After-school Program (CAP)

The Community After-school Program (CAP) serves all 14 elementary schools in the Greater Albany Public School District, providing child care before and after school, as well as full-day care during school vacation days, in-service days, and winter, spring, and summer breaks. CAP is a state-certified child care facility, ensuring safety and quality standards are met. The program offers nutritious snacks, educational activities, STEAM curriculum, and homework assistance for children, while providing parents with affordable, quality childcare in convenient locations.

For more details, visit CAP’s website.

Community Services Consortium – Linn Benton Food Share

Linn Benton Food Share, part of the Community Services Consortium, plays a vital role in addressing food insecurity in the Linn and Benton counties. They distribute millions of pounds of food annually through a network of 68 nonprofit partners, including food pantries, meal sites, and gleaning groups. Their programs are diverse, offering emergency meal site locations, a Fresh Alliance Program, and a Food Rescue Program. They focus on not only providing food but also fostering hope and dignity within the community. Their approach emphasizes the importance of volunteer involvement and monetary donations to sustain their efforts in combating hunger.

For more detailed information, you can visit their website at Linn Benton Food Share.

Cumberland Community Events Center

The Cumberland Community Events Center in Albany, Oregon, is focused on preserving Albany’s heritage through the restoration of the historic Cumberland church building. Their mission extends to promoting community well-being by repurposing this historic site as a community events center. The center represents a significant cultural and historical restoration effort, supported by the local community, including a dedicated board, sponsors, and volunteers. The project exemplifies a commitment to maintaining and celebrating local heritage while fostering social connections within the community.

For more detailed information, visit Cumberland Community Events Center.

Every Child LB

Every Child LB, serving Linn and Benton Counties, focuses on supporting children in foster care and the families that care for them. The organization partners with Oregon’s Department of Human Services to provide resources and support to foster children and foster families. They highlight the need for community involvement in addressing the crisis of children in foster care, emphasizing that everyone can contribute, whether through fostering, volunteering, or donating. Every Child LB aims to bring love, care, and support to children in foster care and to families who need assistance during challenging times.

For more detailed information, visit Every Child LB.

Family and Community Together (FACT)

Family and Community Together (FACT) is a program of the Greater Albany Public School District. It serves as a vital link between schools, students, and families, connecting them with community resources and services in the Albany area. FACT also assists families in understanding and navigating the school system. The team’s goal is to support families in accessing educational, health, and community services, thereby tackling barriers to student success. They provide a variety of services, including crisis support, education resources, food services, and health services, among others.

For more detailed information, visit their website at FACT – Greater Albany Public Schools.

Family Tree Relief Nursery

Family Tree Relief Nursery in Albany, Oregon, is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping children and families in Linn County. They offer a range of services including a therapeutic classroom and nursery for toddlers and preschoolers, home visitation and outreach, respite care, crisis intervention, parent education and support, and assistance with alcohol and drug recovery. The organization focuses on keeping families together and helping parents succeed, thereby fostering future generations of responsible community members.

For more detailed information, visit their website at Family Tree Relief Nursery.

Fish of Albany, Inc.

Fish of Albany, Inc., founded in 1973, is a volunteer-driven organization that offers various forms of assistance to those in need in the greater Albany area. Their services have expanded over the years to include clothing, transportation, medicine, food, and shelter. The organization is supported by local churches, United Way of Linn County, private donations, and foundation grants. They encourage community involvement and offer opportunities for volunteering and speaking engagements to share their mission and impact.

For more detailed information, you can visit their website at Fish of Albany, Inc..

Furniture Share

Furniture Share, established in 1998, is a unique non-profit organization in Corvallis serving the greater Willamette Valley. They collect and distribute donated furniture and household items to residents in need, ensuring all donations meet health and safety standards. Their services are extended to a wide range of clients, including veterans and families, referred by over 100 local agencies. Furniture Share plays a crucial role in the community by not only meeting essential household needs but also by diverting items from landfills, contributing to environmental sustainability.

For more information, visit their website at Furniture Share.

Greater Albany Public Schools

Greater Albany Public Schools, one of Oregon’s largest districts, serves over 9,300 students across various grade levels. The district stands out for its strong character education, self-discipline, and peer mentoring programs. It boasts high academic performance, with students consistently outscoring national averages in SATs. Additionally, graduates from Albany have been successful in securing substantial scholarships and attend prestigious universities. The district’s experienced faculty, comprising mostly educators with over five years of experience, many holding master’s degrees, are committed to supporting student learning. The district encompasses 21 schools across Linn and Benton counties.

For more detailed information, visit Greater Albany Public Schools.

Giving A Hoot

Giving a Hoot is dedicated to enhancing the beauty of the City of Albany, Oregon. Founded on the belief that an attractive city boosts livability and economic viability, the organization is committed to improving the city’s appearance. Their efforts reflect a strong community spirit aimed at creating a more pleasant and thriving environment for all residents.

For more detailed information, you can visit their page on JustServe.

Inter-Community Health Network

Inter-Community Health Network CCO is the coordinated care organization serving Oregon Health Plan members in Benton, Lincoln, and Linn Counties. They are committed to improving the health of the communities they serve while managing or lowering the cost of care. As a coordinated care organization, they focus on unifying health services and systems for their members, providing comprehensive care that encompasses physical, mental, and dental health.

For more detailed information, visit their website at Inter-Community Health Network.

Jackson Street Youth Services

Jackson Street Youth Services offers a safe haven and supportive resources for youth, focusing on crisis management and building a brighter, more stable future. Founded to address the gap in housing for homeless youth, they now operate in Linn, Benton, and Lincoln Counties. Their services include 24/7 shelters, outreach programs, and mentoring, all aimed at ending youth homelessness. They emphasize the importance of donations and partnerships in their mission.

For more detailed information, visit Jackson Street Youth Services.

Just Serve

Just Serve is a platform that connects volunteers with opportunities to help in their communities. It’s a service provided by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints but is open to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation. The website allows organizations to post projects that need support, and volunteers can search for places where they can contribute their time and talents locally.

For more details, visit Just Serve.

Linn County Family Treatment Court

The Linn County Family Treatment Court is a specialized program designed to assist families affected by substance abuse. This court aims to improve child welfare outcomes through intensive judicial oversight, coordinated services, and treatment for parents struggling with addiction. The program emphasizes rehabilitation and family reunification, providing a structured environment for participants to achieve sobriety and stability.

For more details, visit Linn County Family Treatment Court.

Linn County Juvenile Department

The Linn County Juvenile Department focuses on the safety and well-being of youth, working towards preventing juvenile delinquency through various programs and services. They aim to provide interventions and supports that guide youth towards positive life choices, emphasizing accountability and community safety. This department plays a crucial role in the juvenile justice system, ensuring that young individuals receive the guidance and support needed for rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.

For more details, visit Linn County Juvenile Department.

Lumina Hospice & Pallative Care

Lumina Hospice & Palliative Care offers compassionate end-of-life care and support to individuals and their families, focusing on enhancing the quality of life for those facing serious illness or the end of life. Their services are designed to provide comfort, dignity, and peace to patients, while also offering emotional, spiritual, and practical support to families and caregivers.

For more details, visit Lumina Hospice & Palliative Care.

Mercy House International

Mercy House International, operating through its storefront, 1st Hand Seconds Unique Boutique in Albany, Oregon, is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence. They provide resources, support, and empowerment programs for survivors, aiming to offer a path to independence and healing. The boutique itself serves as a funding mechanism for these vital services, selling donated goods and using the proceeds to assist those in need.

For more details, visit Mercy House International.

Mid-Willamette Valley YMCA

The Mid-Willamette Valley YMCA, located in Albany, Oregon, is a community-centered nonprofit organization committed to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living, and fostering a sense of social responsibility. They offer a wide range of programs designed to support the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of community members of all ages, including fitness classes, youth sports, childcare, and community outreach programs.

For more details, visit Mid-Willamette Valley YMCA.

OCWCOG Americorp

The OCWCOG’s AmeriCorps Senior Companion Program is focused on engaging volunteers aged 55 and older to provide companionship and friendship to adults who have difficulty with daily living tasks, helping them remain independent in their homes. This program not only offers vital support to seniors and adults with disabilities but also enriches the lives of the volunteers through meaningful community service.

For more details, visit OCWCOG Americorp Senior Companion Program.

OCWCOG Meals on Wheels

The OCWCOG Meals on Wheels program is dedicated to providing nutritious meals to seniors and individuals with disabilities in the community, ensuring they have access to healthy food. This service is crucial for those who are homebound or unable to prepare meals for themselves, supporting their independence and well-being.

For more details, visit OCWCOG Meals on Wheels.

OCWCOG Rideline

The OCWCOG Rideline service, known as Cascades West Ride Line, offers transportation options for seniors and individuals with disabilities in the region. It aims to provide accessible and reliable transport solutions to enhance mobility and independence for those who may not have other means of transportation, facilitating access to essential services and activities.

For more details, visit OCWCOG Rideline.

Old Mill Center for Children

The Old Mill Center for Children is a comprehensive service provider for children and their families, offering a range of programs aimed at supporting mental health, early learning, and family support services. This center focuses on fostering development, healing, and learning through tailored interventions that meet the unique needs of each child and family they serve.

For more details, visit Old Mill Center for Children.

One2Another

One2Another is an organization that focuses on creating connections and providing support to individuals and families facing challenges. They are dedicated to fostering a community of care and assistance through various programs and initiatives designed to uplift and aid those in need.

For more details, visit One2Another.

Ophelia’s Place

Ophelia’s Place is dedicated to supporting and empowering young women through education, therapy, and advocacy. They offer a safe space and resources for girls and young women to address their mental, emotional, and physical well-being, fostering a community that encourages growth, healing, and empowerment.

For more details, visit Ophelia’s Place.

Optimists of Albany

The Optimists of Albany is a service organization committed to bringing out the best in children and their communities. Through various projects and events, they aim to foster an environment of optimism and positivity, supporting the developmental and educational needs of local youth.

For more details, visit Optimists of Albany.

Options Pregnancy Resource Center

Options Pregnancy Resource Centers provide support and resources to individuals facing unplanned pregnancies. They offer a range of services including pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and counseling, with a focus on providing information and support for various options, including parenting, adoption, and understanding abortion risks and procedures.

For more details, visit Options Pregnancy Resource Center.

Pollywog

Pollywog is a collaborative program designed to connect families with young children in Linn, Benton, and Lincoln counties to local resources and services. It aims to support the healthy development of children by providing access to education and support services for parents and caregivers, ensuring a strong start for the youngest members of the community.

For more details, visit Pollywog.

SafeHaven Humane Society

SafeHaven Humane Society is dedicated to providing care and rehabilitation for abandoned or surrendered pets to ensure they find loving, permanent homes. They offer a variety of services, including adoption, education, and spay/neuter programs, aimed at improving the lives of animals and promoting responsible pet ownership within the community.

For more details, visit SafeHaven Humane Society.

Samaritan Evergreen Hospice

Samaritan Evergreen Hospice provides compassionate, comprehensive care for individuals facing life-limiting illnesses. Their services focus on enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families through physical, emotional, and spiritual support, ensuring comfort and dignity in the final stages of life.

For more details, visit Samaritan Evergreen Hospice.

Sarah’s Place

Sarah’s Place is a specialized facility offering compassionate care and support for sexual assault survivors. It provides a safe and respectful environment where survivors can receive medical examinations and support services. The goal is to ensure that individuals affected by sexual violence receive the care and assistance they need in a setting that prioritizes their dignity and well-being.

For more details, visit Sarah’s Place.

Soroptimist International Of Albany

Soroptimist International of Albany is a global volunteer organization working to improve the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment. The Albany chapter focuses on community projects and awards that support education, end domestic violence, and provide health care to improve the quality of life for women and girls in the local community.

For more details, visit Soroptimist International of Albany.

United Way of Linn, Benton, and Lincoln Counties

The United Way of Linn, Benton, and Lincoln Counties focuses on addressing critical community needs by supporting local programs aimed at improving education, financial stability, and health. They work collaboratively with various organizations to fund initiatives that have a significant impact on the community, emphasizing the importance of volunteerism and collective action to create positive change.

For more details, visit United Way of Linn, Benton, and Lincoln Counties.

Volunteer Caregivers

Volunteer Caregivers is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support and assistance to the elderly, disabled, and those with chronic conditions within the community. They focus on enabling individuals to maintain their independence and quality of life through the help of volunteer services, including transportation, companionship, and minor home repairs.

For more details, visit Volunteer Caregivers.

Chance

Chance Recovery offers supportive and recovery services for individuals dealing with substance abuse and addiction. Their programs are designed to foster a supportive community environment, providing the tools and resources necessary for individuals to achieve long-term recovery and build a foundation for a healthier lifestyle.

For more details, visit Chance Recovery.

The ANNE 2024 event spotlighted the heart and dedication of over 40 non-profits striving to enhance the Albany community. Each organization, with its unique mission and services, plays a pivotal role in enriching lives and addressing diverse needs. We encourage everyone to explore these organizations further. Whether through volunteering your time, offering financial support, or sharing their stories, your involvement can help our entire community thrive. Let’s come together to make a lasting impact and ensure a brighter future for all.

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