July/August 2017 Newsletter: Community Events for Summer
A NOTE FROM EMILY
Hi Everyone,
For a bunch of us, summer in the Pacific Northwest means a ton of time spent being active outdoors, soaking up the fleeting sun while we can. But Oregon women aren't just fair-weather activity enthusiasts -- despite our many months of soggy rain, we are the most physically active women in the nation (check out the stat of the month below). How impressive is that?
Our collective level of physical activity yields a lot more than bragging rights. It's tied to a number of positive health outcomes, like Oregon women's relatively low rates of heart attack, diabetes, and stroke compared to most other states. Oregon's legacy of strong, physically active women also includes the leadership of the legendary Gert Boyle at Columbia Sportswear, and the journeys of the intrepid Stacy Allison, the first American woman to summit Mt. Everest.
This month's stat makes me incredibly proud of our fair state. I hope that you're making the most of your summer, whatever yours might hold.
Forward together,
Emily
STAT OF THE MONTH
Oregon women and girls lead the nation in some key health indicators—like having the highest rates of daily physical activity in the country.
FOUNDATION UPDATES
INVESTMENT UPDATE
In 2016, our members selected Adelante Mujeres for a $30,000 grant to support their incredible work in Washington County. We stay in touch with our partners at Adelante, and they recently shared some of the exciting outcomes that came from the Women's Foundation's 2016 investment.
Over the past year, their Adult Education Program served 74 Latina women through GED preparation. They also hosted a 9-hour workshop on financial literacy, weekly parenting classes, a comprehensive Child Development Associate (CDA) orientation, and two family service learning projects. Are you as inspired as we are? Volunteer with Adelante! Find out more below in this month's "Make a Difference" section.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Name: Debra Dunn
Age: 62
Occupation: Business Consultant
Member of the Women's Foundation since: When the two forerunner Foundations merged to form the Women's Foundation of Oregon in 2015, I became a founding member of the new Foundation.
What’s your favorite spot in Oregon?
The Oregon Coast – Lincoln City / Gleneden Beach area. Over the last 30 years, I’ve spent many weekends there with my daughters and their families.
What quality do you most admire in others?
Self-confidence demonstrated through leadership.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Musical talent. I love music of many genres. I would love to play the piano.
What was your first volunteer experience?
Working on Jimmy Carter’s presidential campaign in Omaha, Nebraska.
What’s the best place to eat in our great state?
Navarre–it’s where my husband and I had our first date.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Rather than a single achievement, I’m most proud of the success I’ve achieved over 30 years in providing leadership and building bridges within industries in which the executives were traditionally men. From the veterinary field to trucking industries, automotive aftermarket, and more. In each instance, I created a new leadership dynamic.
Which woman (living or dead) do you most admire?
I admire so many women; however, if I had to choose, it would be all the assertive women who provided the leadership that made it possible for women to be politically active, hold executive leadership positions, and to obtain access to health services.
What’s your most treasured possession?
In 2011, I was given a copy of my ancestry where the first entry is in the year 1215 in Bedfordshire, England. It traces my family line from England to my seventh great-grandfather arriving in Virginia Colony to my immediate family. The information has enriched my life through connections in Virginia and I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the many generations that came before me.
What is your personal motto?
“You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” –Jane Goodall
What’s your idea of perfect happiness?
My day-to-day life. My consulting business is doing well, my daughters and their families are healthy and happy, and my husband is a feminist. I’m fortunate to have a wonderful network of colleagues and friends and regularly enjoy musical concerts, theater productions, and travel.
What makes you laugh uncontrollably?
The inspired comedy of Bill Murray and Kate McKinnon.
Why are you a member of the Women’s Foundation?
There are several reasons I joined and continue to be a member:
The fact that two women’s organizations came together to form the Foundation was the first reason. I admired the leadership that it takes to make that decision.
I appreciate the work the Foundation does to improve the lives of women and girls in Oregon.
Giving members the opportunity to participate in the annual grant selection really impressed me. I enjoy learning about the organizations and placing my vote.
After 20 years, the Foundation accepted the responsibility of updating the state’s status of women and girls report. The Foundation exceeded my expectations in the approach to the project as well as the result, a phenomenal report–“Count Her In”–that will continue to be the basis for conversation and change over the next several years.
Thanks so much, Debra!
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Adelante Mujeres' Produce Rx initiative benefits Latina women who have been advised by their doctors to change their way of eating by incorporating more fruits and vegetables.
During the Monday night cooking class in Cornelius, Oregon, they need 2+ volunteers to lead a separate kids activity for 2-6 kids ranging from 4-12 years old. Activities, supplies, and snacks are planned in advance. Learn more here.
Have a volunteer opportunity you'd like us to share? Email us at info@w-for.org.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Aug. 12: Free Girls' and Women's Self-Defense Workshop, Medford
Ages 13 and up: Come learn ways to stay safe and defend against common attacks. Hosted by Krav Maga Force Oregon and Chip Wright's Champion Karate.
Aug. 19: Reel Feminism Movie Night, Portland
Feminist bookstore In Other Words hosts a movie night and discussion after. $5 suggested donation, but no one turned away for lack of funds.
Sept. 8: Build With Us, Portland
Oregon Tradeswomen is having a party! Build With Us is their inaugural celebration and fundraising event to support their work in the community.
If you would like your event added to our calendar, please email info@w-for.org.
OREGON NEWS TO KNOW
PBS: How States Are Fighting Over Women’s Access to Health Care
Oregon is expanding access to contraception, in stark contrast to Iowa and other states limiting access to abortion and other forms of family planning.
NPR: At Summer Camp, Girls Build Sandboxes & Confidence In Their Own Abilities
"At Girls Build summer camp in in both Portland and Southern Oregon, girls as young as 8 are learning how to use power tools."
DJC Oregon: Firms Emerge as Leaders in Efforts to Attract, Retain Women Lawyers
Four national law firms with Oregon offices recently earned spots on Working Mother magazine’s list of Best Law Firms for Women 2017.
Bend Bulletin: Prize Money Again Equal for Pro Men and Women in Cycling Race
Bend residents and businesses found out that men would win thousands of dollars more than women competing in a major cycling race, so they banded together.
MEMBERSHIP MATTERS
Our members support us in so many ways: from your membership donations to your time volunteering in the office and at our events.
Now there are even more ways you can support us! As you make your will and estate plans, please consider adding the Women's Foundation of Oregon. For more information on Planned Giving, please contact us at membership@w-for.org.
Also, your employer may match your gift to the Women's Foundation! Check with your human resources department to see if your company will match your charitable donations. If you have any questions regarding your membership please contact membership@w-for.org and we'll be happy to help.
If you're not yet a member, join us by clicking here!