Showing posts with label social services. Show all posts
Showing posts with label social services. Show all posts

NUHSA meeting Wednesday with speakers from ICHS and Seattle Indian Health Board

Sunday, November 21, 2021

Join us at our next NUHSA Member and Community Partner Meeting on Wednesday, November 24, 2021 from 9-10:30am where we will have representatives from ICHS Shoreline and Seattle Indian Health Board (SIHB) share about their COVID responses and impact on vulnerable populations. 

ICHS Shoreline provided additional outreach during the pandemic to connect with underrepresented communities - and SIHB is now operating in the McDermott Building in the former Rotacare space in Lake City. 

Join us as we learn more about how these two organizations provide care in our north end communities! Register Here



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ICHS President and CEO Teresita Batayola announces her December 2022 retirement

Thursday, November 18, 2021

ICHS CEO and President Teresita Batayola
Photo courtesy ICHS
Statement of the ICHS Board of Directors on the retirement announcement of President and CEO Teresita Batayola

SEATTLE, Washington, Nov. 17, 2021: International Community Health Services (ICHS) President and CEO Teresita Batayola has announced her intention to retire in December 2022. The ICHS Board of Directors accepts this news with gratitude for her 17 years of transformational leadership.

Batayola has served at ICHS since 2004 and oversaw its growth from two neighborhood clinics to a regional health care network of 11 service sites. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, she guided ICHS through the establishment of drive-through testing sites, implementation of telehealth, and advocated for vaccine equity and vaccinating diverse communities through its clinics, schools and public sites while addressing vaccine hesitancy. 

ICHS continued to provide care for its patients and participants as it pivoted to also provide lifeline services, distributing food and essential supplies to seniors, families and youth during this period.

“Leadership, especially in a nonprofit organization, is always a marathon,” Batayola said. “Every step matters. But leaders have to know when that marathon is over. My 26th mile is only a marker in ICHS’ history and long future. It is time to prepare to hand over the baton.”

Batayola’s departure at the end of 2022 allows the ICHS Board of Directors time to search for and acquire new leadership and implement a plan for succession. A search committee was convened and will appoint a community advisory group to provide input in the search.

“We are immensely proud and grateful to Teresita for her tireless work,” said ICHS Board President Gildas Cheung. “ICHS is fulfilling the vision of its founders and its mission of providing linguistically and culturally appropriate health care in large part because of her dynamic, innovative and effective leadership.”
ICHS clinic in Shoreline is open to all
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

ICHS is a nonprofit community health center providing culturally and linguistically appropriate health services to improve the wellness of King County’s diverse people and communities. Since its founding in 1973, ICHS has grown from a single storefront clinic in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District with deep roots in the Asian Pacific Islander community, to a regional health care provider employing nearly 600 people with over 27,000 patients speaking 70 languages at 11 clinic locations.



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NUHSA names recipients of 2021 Human Services Awards

Monday, November 8, 2021

The North Urban Human Services Alliance (NUHSA) is proud to announce its 2021 Human Services Award winners! 


Each award recipient has demonstrated a significant contribution to the health and welfare of our North King County community and has supported or advocated for a strong and accessible health and human services system, strengthening our community through their initiative and leadership.

Only in its second year, the Youth Human Services Leadership Award honors the young people in North King County who are taking action to support the well-being of our community.

Nominees and winners will be honored virtually at NUHSA's 2021 Human Services Awards celebration and annual meeting on Wednesday, December 1, 2021, 5:00 – 6:30pm. We are pleased to have King County Executive Dow Constantine provide introductory remarks.

To join in the event, please register in advance here

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Outstanding Human Services Program

Northwest Neighbors Network

NNN is an invaluable source of support for seniors who wish to age in place in their own homes, assisting its members with tasks that have become challenging (including home maintenance, transportation and tech support) and offering critical opportunities for social connection and activity.

Nominees

North King County Mobile Integrated Health

The MIH team accompanies firefighters on calls and provides a meaningful alternative response to low-acuity or non-emergent medical calls.

International Community Health Services (ICHS) Shoreline

ICHS Shoreline provides culturally responsive medical and dental care for North King County residents regardless of health, immigration status or ability to pay, and provided additional critical outreach during the pandemic.

Northshore Schools Foundation

The Foundation responded to the pandemic in creative, innovative ways by expanding its programs and developing innovative partnerships to more directly and effectively support its students, families, teachers, staff, and the community at large.

City of Kenmore

With affordable housing challenges throughout North King County, the City of Kenmore has led the way in ensuring tenant stability through mobile home park preservation and implementation of eviction prevention measures.

Human Services Champion of the Year

Beverly Hawkins, Board Chair; Camp United We Stand

With a tireless commitment to help those who are unhoused, Beverly oversees an itinerant camp of up to 35 individuals, coordinating funding and logistics while also working one-on-one with campers to provide assistance and a connection to resources.

Nominees

Rev. David Marshall, St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church

Through Rev. Marshall’s compassionate and steady leadership, St. Dunstan’s Church has dedicated itself to serving the community and partnering in innovative ways, including offering weekly meals, hosting other congregations, and hosting a severe weather shelter.

Kim Clasen and Barb Swan

Throughout the pandemic, local educators Kim and Barb have stocked the Little Free Pantries in Lake Forest Park and Shoreline 1-2 times each week, soliciting donations from the community and personally purchasing food items and supplies.

Dr. Hirayama Kimo, Assistant Medical Director, ICHS Shoreline

A longtime physician and member of the community, Dr. Kimo helped establish the first community health center in the Shoreline area and continues to lead by example by providing exceptional and culturally responsive medical care for North King County residents.

Isis Salgado, Early Childhood Program Coordinator, Center for Human Services

Isis has gone above and beyond in responding to the pandemic by engaging the Hispanic/Latinx, Spanish speaking community (and particularly families with children 0-6) in new and innovative ways that provides support, information and access.

Youth Human Services Leadership Award

Shorecrest High School Interact

As a Shorecrest service club sponsored by the Rotary Club of Lake Forest Club, Interact has created COVID-safe weekly service projects throughout the pandemic, serving the community through a broad range of activities and partnerships.

NUHSA’s Annual Human Services Awards

NUHSA’s Annual Human Services Awards have been celebrating the accomplishments of local individuals and organizations since 2008. 

NUHSA is an alliance of non-profit agencies, faith communities, city and county leadership, school districts and members of the community who advocate for a strong and accessible health and human services system in North King County, encompassing Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, Bothell and Woodinville. 

Through partnership and collaboration, NUHSA supports providers, funders and the community to enhance existing resources and build our capacity to effectively respond to community needs.



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Red Sky Gallery Holiday Gift Show with silent auction at reception to benefit Wonderland and Hope Rising

Friday, October 29, 2021


Red Sky Gallery will hold an opening reception on November 6, 2021 for its November - December holiday gift show.

The reception will be held Saturday, November 6, 2021 from 4pm to 7pm at the Gallery, located on the upper level of Lake Forest Park Town Center at the intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way NE.

Besides artwork and jewelry for your holiday gifts, it will feature a silent auction benefiting Wonderland and Hope Rising. Wonderland is the child development center which offers multiple services for children with developmental delays and their families.

The main office is located in the Richmond Beach neighborhood of Shoreline, but they serve five school districts.

Hope Rising is their new clinic in Bothell which treats children 0-13 who were exposed to drugs or alcohol prenatally, regardless of ability to pay. It is the only clinic in the country to provide these services, and has a waiting list of 50 kids.


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New Beginnings spreads community love through art - Saturday, October 30th at the Shoreline Farmers Market Harvest Festival

Thursday, October 28, 2021

By Donna Hawkey


New Beginnings will be attending the Shoreline Farmers Market Harvest Festival this Saturday, October 30, 2021 from 10:00am to 2:00pm to help spread community love for all.

One of the postcards created at a previous market

They will have blank postcards and art supplies for market attendees to illustrate an interpretation of their love for the community.

New Beginnings is a full-service resource for survivors of domestic violence. Their mission is to “Empower survivors and mobilize community awareness and action to end domestic violence.”

Love of ourselves and the community can help end abuse.

Services for domestic violence survivors include emotional support, counseling, shelter, housing search assistance, and legal advocacy. New Beginnings even has a portal for teens with info on how to have healthy relationships.

Neba Zaidi, New Beginnings Community
Engagement and Outreach Manager.

They define abuse as "A pattern of behavior in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner." If you are experiencing abuse, please call their confidential 24/7 crisis hotline at 206-522-9472.

"Everyone deserves a community that seeks to prevent harm and to stabilize a life after domestic violence," said Neba Zaidi, New Beginnings Community Engagement and Outreach Manager.

Come and spread your love this Saturday:
Shoreline Farmers Market in Shoreline Place
15415 Westminster Way N

For further information: New Beginnings https://newbegin.org/

If you need help, 24/7 Crisis Hotline - 206-522.9472 – Confidential, with language access and highly trained advocates for victims of domestic violence.



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Nominate a 2021 NUHSA Human Services Champion today

Tuesday, October 19, 2021


Do you know of an individual, organization or business in North King County (Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Bothell, Kenmore and Woodinville) that has made a significant contribution to the health and welfare of our community? 

Have they in some way supported or advocated for strong and accessible health and human services, and strengthened our community through their initiative and leadership? 

If so, please give the recognition these individuals and organizations deserve!

The North Urban Human Services Alliance (NUHSA) is seeking nominations for its 2021 Human Services Awards in two categories: Human Services Champion of the Year and Outstanding Human Services Program.

During this extraordinary time, it is more important than ever to recognize and honor those who have gone above and beyond to help ensure that everyone in our community has the opportunity to reach their full potential. 
Our human service providers, community leaders and advocates have played a critical role in supporting our residents and strengthening our communities.

Nominations are due Friday, October 22, 2021. Don't delay! Nominees and winners will be announced and honored at NUHSA's 2021 Human Services Awards Celebration and Annual Meeting via Zoom on Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at 5:30pm. For more information, please email staff@nuhsa.org.

NUHSA's Annual Human Services Awards ceremony has been celebrating the accomplishments of local individuals and organizations since 2008. 

NUHSA is an alliance of non-profit agencies, faith communities, city and county leadership, school districts and members of the community who advocate for a strong and accessible health and human services system in North King County, encompassing Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, Bothell and Woodinville. 

Through partnership and collaboration, NUHSA supports providers, funders and the community to enhance existing resources and build our capacity to effectively respond to community needs.



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Honoring Those Who Make a Difference

Friday, October 8, 2021

Do you know an individual, organization or business in North King County (Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Bothell, Kenmore and Woodinville) that has made a significant contribution to the health and welfare of our community?

Have they in some way supported or advocated for strong and accessible health and human services and strengthened our community through their initiative and leadership? 

 If so, please give them the recognition they deserve!

Submit your nomination TODAY for the 2021 NUHSA Human Services Awards!

NUHSA is seeking nominations for its 2021 Human Services Awards in two categories: Human Services Champion of the Year and Outstanding Human Services Program.

During this extraordinary time, it is more important than ever to recognize and honor those who have gone above and beyond to help ensure that everyone in our community has the opportunity to reach their full potential. 

Our human service providers, community leaders and advocates have played a critical role in supporting our residents and strengthening our communities.

Nominations are due Friday, October 22, 2021.

Nominees and winners will be announced and honored at NUHSA's 2021 Human Services Awards Celebration and Annual Meeting via Zoom on Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at 5:30pm. 

For more information, email staff@nuhsa.org



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Randall Morris hosts Gala Auction and Celebrity Golf Tournament which gifted $10,000 to Vision House

Sunday, October 3, 2021

At the tournament, the iconic Beast Bus, with DJ Fraser Loveman (r)
Photo courtesy Vision House

Randall Morris hosted a Gala Auction and Celebrity Golf tournament to benefit Vision House and Empower Youth Network. Two hundred guests enjoyed a great evening at the Southport Hyatt, hosted by Jesse Jones, KING5 Investigative Reporter.

$10,000 from the combined events was gifted to Vision House, providing four entire families a month of safe housing and supportive services each.

Melissa Gehrig, Executive Director of Vision House, said “This was the most amazing event – we are so grateful to Mr. Morris and his team for including the children and parents at Vision House in his generosity.”
 
Randall Morris presents Vision House CEO Melissa Gehrig a check for $10,000
and receives photos of some of the children and families at a Vision House transitional
housing facility. Photo courtesy Vision House.

Morris is very passionate about helping kids in his community, and was thrilled to learn about Vision House and their mission to have “No Homeless Kids.” The event occurred on September 12 and 13, 2021 from 10:30am to 5:30pm. At the golf tournament, 36 teams of fivesomes golfed the shotgun-style event.

Morris started the Randall Morris Foundation in 2005. The Randall Morris Foundation supports the youth and families of our community by partnering with numerous charities in the Pacific Northwest.

The foundation hosts an annual Celebrity Golf Tournament every September where it’s joined by many of Randall’s friends from the NFL, NBA, MLB, entertainment and music world. At this year’s event, a couple of the invited celebrity guests were Jim Zorn, Walter Jones, Mark Lee, and Ron Fellows.


Jacob's Well in Shoreline
About Vision House

Vision House is a nonprofit organization providing transitional housing, childcare and supportive services to families experiencing homelessness.

Since its beginning in 1990, the faith-based organization has served more than 2,000 children, women and men experiencing homelessness, each receiving the support they need for achieving independence and self-sufficiency. 

Headquartered in Renton, the agency currently owns and operates 46 units of debt-free housing and two child care facilities in Renton and Shoreline (Jacob's Well).



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Lake City Partners welcomes new Executive Director

Friday, October 1, 2021

Walter Washington,
Executive Director
of The Oaks
By Diane Hettrick

Lake City Partners Ending Homelessness has welcomed its new Executive Director, Walter Washington.

Lake City Partners provides services to unhoused citizens in the Lake City area, extending up into Shoreline. 

They are the managing agency for the new King County housing facility on Aurora in Shoreline, The Oaks.

The former director, Melanie Neufeld, returned to her home in Canada this summer.

Of his new position, Washington says,

My first month as Executive Director has been a wonderful mix of learning opportunities, healthy challenges, and smiles a plenty. 
Among the highlights has been the first-hand witness of the care and thoughtfulness of our Staff and Board Members. 
Our Lake City Partners team is truly up for the challenge!

The shelter has been in operation for exactly six months and is at full capacity now. 

Shelter residents cleaning up around the facility.
Photo courtesy The Oaks
Washington reports that "People are making progress with their health, some folks are getting their ID’s, and a few are enthusiastically undertaking regular neighborhood cleanups in and around the shelter vicinity."

During August 2021, they hosted two expectant couples and were able to find the resources to get both couples into stable housing before the birth of the children.

The Oaks welcomes community volunteers. 

In its first days, LFP Artist Billy King headed a successful effort to get art throughout the facility. Diggin' Shoreline created raised garden beds for vegetables, and other organizations provided food for the residents.



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Nominate a 2021 NUHSA Human Services Champion today

Saturday, September 25, 2021

Do you know of an individual, organization or business in North King County (Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Bothell, Kenmore and Woodinville) that has made a significant contribution to the health and welfare of our community? 

Have they in some way supported or advocated for strong and accessible health and human services, and strengthened our community through their initiative and leadership? 

If so, please give the recognition these individuals and organizations deserve!

The North Urban Human Services Alliance (NUHSA) is seeking nominations for its 2021 Human Services Awards in two categories: 
  • Human Services Champion of the Year and 
  • Outstanding Human Services Program

During this extraordinary time, it is more important than ever to recognize and honor those who have gone above and beyond to help ensure that everyone in our community has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Our human service providers, community leaders and advocates have played a critical role in supporting our residents and strengthening our communities.

Nominations are due Friday, October 15, 2021. 

Nominees and winners will be announced and honored at NUHSA's 2021 Human Services Awards Celebration and Annual Meeting via Zoom on Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at 5:30pm. For more information, please email staff@nuhsa.org

NUHSA's Annual Human Services Awards ceremony has been celebrating the accomplishments of local individuals and organizations since 2008. 

NUHSA is an alliance of non-profit agencies, faith communities, city and county leadership, school districts and members of the community who advocate for a strong and accessible health and human services system in North King County, encompassing Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, Bothell and Woodinville.

Through partnership and collaboration, NUHSA supports providers, funders and the community to enhance existing resources and build our capacity to effectively respond to community needs.

Submit your nomination today!



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US Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program receives award for campaign

Friday, September 24, 2021

Everett, WA -  US Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program – serving ALL Snohomish County and Shoreline – received the coveted LCO Campaign of the Year Region 6 for 2020.

Their coordinator Mary Butler also received the coveted LCO Coordinator of the Year Region 6 2020, in an awards ceremony September 17, 2021. 

Mary thanks our sponsors/partners and communities for their generosity, and TFT volunteers for their tireless support. The mission of US Marine Corps Toys for Tots – Snohomish County and Shoreline – to deliver symbols of hope to underserved children/youth continues in 2021.

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The Little Lemon Drops Junior Guild Outdoor Movie Night fundraiser brought in over $26,000 for uncompensated care at Children's Hospital

Wednesday, September 15, 2021

2021 Little Lemon Drops. 3rd and 5th from left are Co-Presidents Lindsay Rand and Emily Lin.
Center is Parent Advisor Shauna Eckhardt.

The Little Lemon Drops Junior Guild hosted their Annual Outdoor Movie Night benefiting Seattle Children’s Hospital on September 11, 2021 at the Innis Arden Clubhouse.

Outdoor Movie Night is an annual fundraiser for the Guild

The fundraiser raised over $26,000 for uncompensated care, helping patients and families in need of financial support to get the care they require. Thank you to Mercy Haub for being the special guest patient and for sharing her story of Hodgkin lymphoma and her treatment journey. 

Learn more about her story of resilience, kindness and inspiration HERE

All set up and ready to go

The Little Lemon Drops Junior Guild is led by Guild Co-Presidents Lindsay Rand and Emily Lin, as well as Shauna Eckhardt as the Parent Advisor. With the hard work and commitment from 17 other junior members and their families, this event was once again a success because of the overwhelming and generous support from the community.

Activities were both indoor and outdoor. They had a silent auction and sold raffle tickets.

So many loyal constituents have been supportive of this group since inception in 2007. Gratitude and appreciation was felt at the event and throughout the year for the service commitment from these young philanthropists. To learn more about the Little Lemon Drops, visit http://www.thelittlelemondropsjuniorguild.org/.

Photos courtesy Little Lemon Drops Junior Guild



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REMINDER: Community Vaccine Clinic Tuesday at Center for Human Services in North City

Monday, August 30, 2021


REMINDER: Community Vaccine Clinic Tuesday August 31, 2021 from 1-7pm at Center for Human Services 17018 15th Ave NE Shoreline, WA 98155

Walk ups welcome and the first 50 attendees will receive a $10 gift card to Fred Meyer/QFC. 

Any youth 12-17 year olds will receive a gift card as well. If they are part of the first 50 they get 2 !!




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Community Resource Center online and available to all

Thursday, August 26, 2021

Pre-COVID, the resource center was held in
conjunction with the Community Court and 
volunteers helped people find services.
Photo by Jamie Holter
Community Resource Center

In collaboration with The City of Shoreline, The City of Redmond, The City of Auburn, and King County District Court.

We are living in stressful times and you may find yourself in need of support.

ALL ARE WELCOME! GET THE HELP YOU NEED AT THE VIRTUAL RESOURCE CENTER
  • Tuesdays, 1:30-3pm
  • Wednesdays, 2-4:30pm
  • Thursdays, 1:30-3:30pm

http://bit.ly/KCLS_Resource_Center

Log-in or call for free information and access to:
  • Cash assistance
  • Employment and training
  • Education
  • Housing
  • Food assistance
  • Health / medical care
  • Legal assistance
  • Dispute resolution
  • Mental health treatment
  • Substance use treatment
  • Transportation / ORCA Lift

Online Access: Log in via Zoom anytime during the listed open hours. Use - https://tinyurl.com/virtualresourcecenter

Meeting ID: 930-683-3892, Password: 459890

Telephone Access: If you do not have computer access, contact the Virtual Resource Center at one of the following phone numbers during open hours.253.215.8782

669.900.9128
346.248.7799
312.626.6799
646.558.8652
301.715.8592



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Rotary project at Talita Cumi Children's Home in Mexico

Monday, August 23, 2021

Michele and Harley O'Neil in Zihuatanejo Mexico

By Harley O'Neil, Jr.

On January 24, 2021, my wife, Michele, and I took our first trip to Zihuatanejo, MX with friends from Quincy, WA. 

While we were there I learned that another close friend of mine, Paul Blauert, was also there and he had been coming there for over twenty years. I asked him if there was a project my Shoreline Rotary Club could get involved. He called the assistant pastor of Four Square Church and scheduled a breakfast meeting the following day.

At the breakfast meeting, I learned that there was a Children's Home in Zihuatanejo that could use some help. The Assistant Pastor, Cristian Cruz, asked if I wanted to go out the following day? 

I asked, "What about now?" So, my friend, Paul, and another friend Jim Hoersch jumped into Cristian's car and drove to visit the Children's Home and see what needs they had. While heading over to the Children's Home the Assistant Pastor told me that support for the Children's Home was hot and cold. 

Sometimes they get support and sometimes no support. With the Pandemic, tourism was way down and the whole town was hurting.

When we arrived at the Children's Home, the first thing that impressed me was that the children were receiving a very good education. There were actually three classes going on and the printing that the kids were doing was unbelievable. I remarked to several of the children how impressed I was.

The head of the Children's Home showed us around and I noticed that there were rooms that needed painting and the Administrator told me that although they had a six burner stove, only one burner worked and although they had two blenders, neither blender worked. 

I asked where a stove could be purchased in town. Cristian mentioned that there was a Sam's Club nearby and they sold gas stoves. A few minutes later we were in Sam's Club and not only was there a six burner stove but also an assortment of blenders. The three of us agreed to purchase the stove and one Oster Blender. 

We asked Cristian if he knew anyone who could pick up the range and get it installed. He said that for $10 he had a person who would take the new range to the Children's Home, remove the old range, and install the new range. 

Before we left the store, Cristian's friend showed up with a truck to pick up the new range. Before the end of the day, we were told that the new stove had been installed and three of the six burners were being used.

The Children's Home only houses between 8 -15 children at a time. Social Services learns about parents with drug, alcohol, and/or abuse issues and they take the children away and place them here.The government believes that children should be with their parents, so after the children are taken away the government provides help to the parents to see if they can stop their addiction and improve their lives. The goal is to get the children back with their parents at home.

I was very impressed with the schooling these children were receiving and the love the staff showed toward them. It was easy to see that they were happy and as a teacher myself, I could see that these kids were getting as good, if not a better education than the children in the local public schools.

I have provided an outline of the work that needs to be done at this Children's Home and the tasks the Shoreline Rotary Club members and the South Everett-Mukilteo Rotary Club members hope to complete while there from January 15-29, 2022. 

Much of the work will be contracted out before we arrive, but there will be hands on experience at the Children's Home. 

At this time I have 12 Rotarians going on this Project with us and I have two additional Rotarians who want to go if I can get two more units reserved for them. I have also provided a picture of the beach and my wife and I next to the beach where we will be staying. I have reserved eight rooms at Hotel Villa Mexicana for the two weeks and I am offering rooms to those who might like to join us. 

My wife and I will be there both weeks and we have friends who will be staying in other accommodations because they have extended family members with them. I believe that the cost for these ocean front units will be about $175 per night. The units are studio units and although there is fairly good Wifi, there is no refrigerator in the units. The food here is great and you will fall in love with the people. It is a very nice fishing village.

We are looking for clubs to join us in this International Service Project as we are trying to raise $28,000-$30,000. If you are interested in attending or your club is interested in partnering with Shoreline Rotary Club, please call me at 206-353-5516 or email me at harley@isomedia.com. The Shoreline Rotary Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit organization. Thank you.

Harley D. O'Neil, Jr.
Shoreline Rotary Club Treasurer



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Zoom Rotary meeting Wednesday welcomes Srijan Chakroborty, Executive Director of the Hunger Intervention Program

Sunday, August 22, 2021

By Victoria E. Stiles


Join in for a Zoom Rotary meeting Wednesday morning, August 25, 2021. Our meeting starts at 7:30 am with President Debbie Tarry and our cow-bell-ringing greeter and Zoom host, Clarita Bhat! E-mail contact@shorelinerotary.com for instructions.

Srijan Chakroborty, Executive Director of HIP.
In Washington State, 1 in 10 individuals struggle with hunger. 1 in 6 Washington kids live in a household that faces challenges in putting enough food on the table. 

These grim statistics drive the passion behind the Hunger Intervention Program (HIP) and that of our our guest speaker, Srijan Chakroborty, Executive Director of HIP.

At HIP, they believe that healthy, culturally appropriate food is a human right and it is unacceptable that in the richest country on earth anyone should have to go hungry.

Their mission is to increase food security for underserved populations in North King County through nutritious meals, educational programs, and advocacy. 

Their meal programs include weekend backpack programs, summer eats, senior meals, afterschool meal program and shelter meals. They provide classes and workshops on nutrition, cooking, gardening, and food justice.

Srijan holds a Master’s degree in Social Work. Before joining HIP, he was the Development and Communications Manager at The Sophia Way, an agency serving women experiencing homelessness. 

He also has an MS in Computer Science and worked as a software engineer at Microsoft for nine years before deciding to switch completely to the social service sector. 

When not at work, he enjoys spending time with his children, hiking in the mountains, listening to music, or reading a good book. Please give Srijan a warm Shoreline Rotary welcome!



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Roger Bouck RotaCare Free Health Clinic in Lake City turning over operations to Seattle Indian Health Board

Monday, August 2, 2021

Roger and Lovell Bouck
By Karen and Greg Schaeffer

RotaCare’s History

Rotarian Roger Bouck lived the Rotarian motto, service above self, every chance he got throughout his long and active life. After being in a life-threatening auto accident in his mid-twenties, he resolved to devote the rest of his life to service, and he did so with energy and enthusiasm.
 
He was a mediator at Boeing who, after he retired, participated in the Boeing Bluebills (retired Boeing Employees who donate their time to the community) and among other activities, he volunteered at the Lake City Food Bank. While there, he observed that many who needed food also needed medical care but were unable to afford it.
 
At that point, he decided to start a free medical clinic and, in 2006, persuaded North Helpline food bank to provide RotaCare with 480 square feet of space in the old Lake City Firehouse. In 2010, RotaCare moved into a 2,400 square ft. space within the new McDermott Place Low Income Housing Building, where North Helpline Food Bank and Emergency Services are currently located.

Rotary Clubs of Lake Forest Park and Shoreline, along with many other community collaborators, agreed to fund the project annually. Rotarian and architect Marlin Gabbert designed the space and other Rotarians helped put up walls, painted the entire clinic and moved in furniture. 

RotaCare has always been a work of the hands of many, including hundreds of volunteer medical professionals and registrars and included the participation of U.W. medical students and preceptors, who practiced twice a month at RotaCare for more than 10 years.

RotaCare has also been a work of the hearts of those many volunteers, in fact the motto was “healthcare with a heart.” The dream of Roger’s heart was to provide medical care for homeless, uninsured and underinsured patients. He initially invited several doctors, nurses and a pharmacist to volunteer their skilled services at the clinic every Saturday. 

He negotiated with Northwest Hospital to provide labs and imaging at no charge to patients. He also obtained donated medical equipment and supplies. Roger accomplished all of this while battling lung cancer. By 2008, knowing his time was limited, he recruited Rotarian Greg Schaeffer, a specialist in healthcare IT, as Board President. His wife, Karen Schaeffer, with experience managing non-profits, was also recruited by Roger and served as board President, with Greg serving as VP/Treasurer since 2010.

RotaCare Transfers Space and Assets to Seattle Indian Health Board as they begin a New Chapter Providing Low-Cost Healthcare in Lake City

For the past 15 years, RotaCare has served the North end every Saturday, providing free health care and prescriptions to those in need. However, an amazing opportunity arose where it became clear to the RotaCare Board that it was in the best interests of the community to transfer their assets to a new organization, Seattle Indian Health Board (SIHB) who will provide medical care in Lake City Monday through Saturday.
 
Seattle Indian Health Board has agreed to lease the space from North Helpline beginning this fall, offering a broad set of patient services, including an in-house pharmacy. Celebrating this transition, 40+ volunteers gathered at the Schaeffer home to say farewell to RotaCare and welcome SIHB to the neighborhood.

To the right are North Helpline Executive Director, Kelly Brown; SIHB President and CEO, Esther Lucero; COO of SIHB, Ryan Gilbert; and Karen Schaeffer (RotaCare).


Seattle Indian Health Board is a community health organization that provides health and human services to all of its patients, while specializing in the care of Native people. Their highest priority is to provide culturally appropriate, high quality, and accessible health and human services – regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. For this reason, SIHB offers Sliding Fee Scale Discounts for a variety of services.

SIHB Services include:
  • Exams, immunizations, screening tests for children and adults
  • Care for minor and acute illnesses
  • Well-child exams, immunizations, and screening tests
  • School, camp and sports physical exams
  • Chronic disease diagnosis and treatment
  • Family planning care and counseling
  • Laboratory tests
  • Pharmacy and low-cost prescriptions

Seattle Indian Health Board celebrated their 50th anniversary doing what they do best, which is mobilizing to address the needs of the community. They serve approximately 6,000 patients annually in King County, and more than 4,000 of those identify as American Indian and/or Alaska Native, and they employ more than 180 people. 

SIHB is a non-profit and accepts donations on their website. If you are interested in knowing more about SIHB or donating to them, please contact them at: Seattle Indian Health Board - For the Love of Native People (sihb.org)

The clinic is located at 12736 33rd Ave NE #200, Seattle, WA 98125 in the North Helpline building.



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Wednesday's meeting of LFP Rotary to hear about the philanthropic arm of Seattle Kraken and Climate Pledge Arena - One Roof Foundation

Monday, July 19, 2021


Visit Lake Forest Park Rotary Club to hear a variety of community speakers, and to find out about our service projects.

We meet in person at Lake Forest Park Presbyterian on Wednesday mornings at 7:00am for breakfast, and speakers start at 7:30am. 
You can also join via Zoom.

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 225 797 7384


Wednesday, July 21, 2021 7:30am

Speaker: Mari Horita, Executive Director, One Roof Foundation

The Seattle Kraken is the NHL’s 32nd franchise, the first professional hockey team in Seattle since the Seattle Totems finished their 1974-75 season in the then-pro-Western Hockey League. 

The Kraken will play at Climate Pledge Arena, which is undergoing a transformation to develop the arena originally constructed for the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair (saving the landmark roof) into a state-of-the-art facility, which will bring the best of live sport, music, and entertainment to the city.

The Seattle Kraken and Climate Pledge Arena are joining forces to create One Roof Foundation, which will serve as the philanthropic arm of both organizations. The foundation will be specific about how to generate social change in a trio of ‘primary impact’ areas: youth homelessness, access and opportunities in youth hockey and environmental justice.


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Seattle Veterinary Outreach at Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center July 21 - not just for pets

Sunday, July 18, 2021

Look for the big red mobile parked in front of the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center on July 21st from 11:00am to 2:00pm

Story and photos by Donna Hawkey

"We're a portal to better health," says Dr. Hanna Ekström, founder of the mobile Seattle Veterinary Outreach, SVO, which provides free veterinary care for the pets of owners who are homeless, and pay-what-you-can for people living low-income and having difficulty paying for veterinary services.

The SVO mobile will be parked in front of the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center on July 21, 2021 from 11:00am to 2:00pm. Depending on how many veterinarians volunteer, the mobile clinic can provide service for between 20 and 35 pets, so come early if your pet has an urgent need.

Since starting the organization in 2019, they have treated over 1,000 pets. People travel from all over, sometimes as far as Tacoma, to receive these essential services.

Dr. Hanna Ekström, founder of Seattle Veterinary Outreach.
"Everyone Deserves Kindness"

Dr. Ekström extended her outreach services to pet owner needs in 2020 because when caring for people’s pets, she saw firsthand the needs of the pet owner, too. She also realized that she could build on the trust shared between veterinarian and pet owner to help people find better health for themselves.

"I see it in their faces, the struggle and the hardships that would seem insurmountable to most of us. It shows the power of human resilience, and the lengths people will go to keep their beloved pet healthy and happy."

The pet owner was both thrilled that her puppies got check-ups, and that “ I signed up for health care too – and right here!”

In early 2021, she hired a social worker, Scott Beck, to help better connect people to human-need resources. In four months, he has provided over 400 referrals to local human service providers. 

 

"Many referrals are for things like gas cards, bus passes, and food assistance, but lots of people don't know that they qualify for these benefits or don't know how to access them. Also, many of our clients don’t own a cell phone or computer, which is a huge obstacle to filling out applications. 
"So, we can get the ball rolling for them by helping fill in applications, teaming with Access Wireless to provide a free phone, or with Molina Healthcare to get them connected to healthcare and a caseworker who can continue to assist them as they navigate the many barriers to finding housing and health.”


This pet owner plays with a donated toy for his best buddy.  He said “I could not afford to own a pet if it were not for all the services here, I’m very thankful.”

Recently Mr. Beck was able to help get a man housed who has been homeless for 15 years. He suffers from severe PTSD from his active-duty time in the Marines. He had been living in a tent while battling cancer, managing his diabetes, and caring for his two beloved cats. Very few shelters allow pets.


“When you consider the power of that only friend or family member - think about it - would you leave your child or best friend on the street so that you could go into a shelter?” says Dr. Ekström. 
“Most people could not imagine such a choice, and when your life is torn apart, a relationship with a beloved pet can sustain you until you can the help needed to put your life back together again. 
"And from the pet’s point of view, cats and dogs don't need buildings to live in, but they do need the unconditional love of their owners. Getting people housed is a win-win-win for the person, the pet, and our community.”

The pet owners she sees are there for their pets no matter their financial circumstances, especially when their pet is sick. 

"Pets can be a person's only family member. Someone told me he would skip meals and his medicine so that he could buy glaucoma drops for his beloved dog. I would do the same if I were in a similar position."

Researchers have observed that the pet bond is so close for a person who has become homeless that they become a pack of two. Anxiety is naturally eased because they spend all their time together in such a close bond. A strong feeling of safety is created that’s healthy for both humans and pets.

Waiting and being patient is easy when you have your best friend on your lap.

Dr. Eckström said that "While meeting so many different people such as a woman that could have been my grandmother, every day this work opens up my heart even more than the day before. There are so many unfortunate stigmas associated with unhoused people. 

"I can tell you that people who are homeless are not all drug addicts, and it is not personal failing that puts so many in this dire situation, it is the effect of childhood adverse experiences, trauma, and structural racism. 
"The complex and tragic stories behind many of those living homeless require new tools in our toolbelt, along with empathy and the ability to provide hope."

Another way she provides hope is through her work with her Robert Wood Johnson Clinical Scholar team, made up of herself, Dr. Catherine Wheeler, Jessica Lowery, RN, and Cholette Ness, LVT. This team works to bring primary care, harm reduction, and wound care to folks living in tents and RVs throughout the city of Seattle. 

Dr. Wheeler says, “by meeting people where they are, we can work together with our clients, and hopefully transition them to regular care either with the King County Med Van, or a regular primary care provider.” Dr. Ekström adds, “our outreach work is just one more doorway through which people can get connected to the resources they need to live healthier lives, for themselves, and for their pets.”

Pet homelessness

On average, there are five homeless dogs or cats per one homeless person in America. According to Shelter Animals Count, shelters are so overrun with dogs and cats that approximately 1.5 million dogs and cats are euthanized per year. If you are considering adoption, please take a look at shelter pets first. Dr. Ekström herself loves her three rescued pets fiercely and gratefully!


Donated pet items from beds to treats to personalized name tags can all be found right here!

Here are further thoughts and insights from Dr. Ekström:

How do you receive funding?

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation provided a three-year grant totaling almost $500,000, which helped us expand our team to include a primary care physician and a nurse who can see people while we are seeing pets. 

In addition, we have received a sustaining grant from the Jacobi Foundation which has truly been our organizations life-blood as we worked to establish this program. We have also received funds from the Seattle Foundation, the ASPCA, Petsmart, and Banfield, as well as from many private individuals who believe in our mission. Last but not least, we are blessed with a strong team of passionate volunteers who work side by side to improve the culture of health for the people and pets we serve.

Having Molina Healthcare on site helps people get answers to their questions first hand rather than having to experience the frustrations of trying to apply online. Enrollees get the option of signing up for a caseworker to help them navigate through the oftentimes complicated process of obtaining housing. Molina also teams with a wireless phone provider so enrollees have a way to stay in touch with their doctors. 

What are your greatest strengths as an organization?


Partnerships have been one of our best strengths. We partner with medical doctors, nurses, and technicians. We develop working relationships with social service providers such as Real Change News, Recovery Café, and local Food Banks. In addition, we partner with Molina Healthcare to help connect folks with healthcare, and Access wireless to get free phones into the hands of those who need them.

What was one big surprise for you?

I had no idea that this project would grow so quickly. When I started, we just had four volunteers working one day a month! The need is so much bigger than I anticipated, we are now offering eight clinics a month and would love to do more!

A pet loving Subaru driving and hiking club raised $2,200 cleaning up back road trails. The event was supported by a Subaru dealer who printed t-shirts for everyone.   

Describe your most significant return on this work
.

This work builds trust among people who have lost faith in others by building on the human-animal bond as a great uniter. By providing loving care to people’s pets, we aspire to bring hope and health to “both ends of the leash.” Finally, our work helps keep our community healthy by potentially limiting the spread of disease from pets to people, for example, Rabies, Leptospirosis, and Typhus.

It is very rewarding work-connecting to people through their pets brings us joy, as well as pride that we are making a difference in our community. It is great to see how SVO is providing a portal to better health for both pets and their owners.

What are some of the most significant challenges?

Sadly, there are not enough social and mental health services to keep up with the increasing demand-we just don’t have enough spaces to send people to for treatment.

What are your greatest needs as a young organization?

Our organization desperately needs more veterinarians and licensed vet techs to help provide service to clients in need. Having experienced volunteer social workers would improve our effectiveness, and we also need volunteers to help with marketing, grant writing, etc.

Sometime in the near future, we hope to be able to open a clinic so we can provide spay and neuter services for pets, we currently have over 180 pets waiting for this essential service! We would also provide dental services for pets in need. Anyone want to run a capital campaign?!?

For more information, to donate, or to run a capital campaign! Visit Seattle Veterinary Outreach, a 501c3 non-profit https://www.seattlevet.org/

The Senior Center is located in the southernmost building on the Shoreline Center campus, 18560 1st Ave NE, facing NE 185th.



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Op-Ed: NUHSA - Join us in voting YES to RENEW the Best Starts for Kids Levy!

This election we have an important opportunity to give every child across King County the best start in life and the opportunity to reach their full potential!

Join organizations serving kids and families like ours, childcare workers, community leaders, and neighbors in voting YES to renew Prop 1, the Best Starts for Kids Levy, on your Aug. 3rd ballot.

Best Starts for Kids will not only maintain, but expand current programs that support kids through homelessness prevention, access to school-based healthcare, counseling, social and emotional youth development programs, and so much more. The renewal also provides families with access to high quality childcare, and ensures that child care workers earn a living wage – essential for pandemic recovery.

The Seattle Times endorsed Prop 1 saying that, “Best Starts has made the difference in the lives of hundreds of thousands of children, young adults and families. It deserves to be renewed.”

Ballots are arriving now. Be sure to vote YES on Prop 1 – it’s the top priority at the top of your ballot -- and be sure to return your ballot by Tuesday, August 3rd. Remember, you can use a Ballot Drop Box or return your ballot in a postage paid envelope.

Heidi Shepherd, Board Chair
North Urban Human Services Alliance (NUHSA)

P.S. Want to do more to support Best Starts for Kids? Attend our Rally for Best Starts for Kids on July 28th at 5:30 p.m. and check out the website to sign up to volunteer, get a yard sign, and more!



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