Northwest Family Services

My husband, Joe, and I became part of NWFS's Mentoring Program in June 2022. I work at a local elementary school and was introduced to Children of Incarcerated Parents, where I learned about the mentoring program. The chance to support my students as they navigated middle school and beyond was a calling I couldn't resist.

Joe was paired with a boy, and I was matched with two girls who are best friends. This journey, alongside our role as foster parents, has been incredibly valuable. We've seen them graduate from middle school, settle into high school, and even join sports teams – experiences that have shaped them positively.

From pottery painting to visits to the Bigfoot Museum, our monthly activities have been full of joy. One summer day at the beach, while boogie boarding, Joe's mentee yelled from the water, 'This is literally the funnest thing I have ever done! Thank you so much for bringing me!!'

This group's work supporting our more at-risk kids through positive role models and unique experiences has been life-changing for us all.

When we first met Susie, she was living in her van with her disabled son and their furry companion, desperately searching for a way out of homelessness. She had recently exited a temporary housing program and was struggling to find a stable place to call home.

A housing specialist met with Susie to understand her situation better. Together, they developed a plan to get the family into a stable home. It was challenging, but we found a good fit and guided her through the application process.

The joy and relief that Susie felt when she finally received the keys to her own home were immeasurable. For the first time in years, she had a safe and secure place to raise her son. She was grateful for the support she received from NWFS staff, who made her dream of stable housing a reality.

When Daisy joined our Foster Youth 2 Independence (FY2I) program, she was living in a hotel with her boyfriend. Recognizing the warning signs of an abusive relationship, our Youth Peer Support Specialists stepped in.

In a moment of vulnerability, Daisy shared, "I don't have anybody except for you guys." Our team offered unwavering reassurance, promising to be there for her every step of the way.

With NWFS support, Daisy found the strength to leave the abusive relationship. She secured a new job, obtained her own apartment, and started reconnecting with her family. Today, she lives a happy and healthy life.

The staff at Casa Esperanza, NWFS' DV shelter and the ONLY culturally and linguistically specific domestic violence shelter in Oregon for Latinas and their children, aided a mother and child in relocating from another state as they fled their abuser. The family arrived at the shelter, and NWFS staff provided support getting new identification, as well as with enrolling them in health insurance, helping them become stably housing, and assisting with other basic needs.

The survivor shared that she was grateful for NWFS staff's support and for giving her back her dignity after overcoming all that she had experienced with her abuser. The survivor has been referred to another program within NWFS to empower her in returning to school to pursue her higher education goals.

NWFS is the bee's knees! Everyone across the board is incredible. Management is prompt and kind and it's nice to know people are looking out for your best interests. I feel my managers and counselors really fight for their employees because they know how much passion everyone puts into this field of work. Maybe it's the nature of working with a bunch of counselors but NWFS is the antithesis of corporate culture, they really make you feel valued. It will be a sad day when my time at NWFS comes to a natural conclusion.

In November 2024 I will be with Northwest Family Services for one year, one thing I can confidently say is this work has exceeded my expectations. My position is a Youth Peer Mentor, which consists of meeting youth where they are in their journey, helping them develop healthy relationships, and expand their knowledge in multiple areas including coping skills, mental health, and substance use. One of my highlights from this year was working with a youth to get her permit. We were working towards this goal for several months. We tried multiple study strategies from taking practice tests, to flash cards, to designating 5-10 Minutes of reading the manual daily. After several attempts of taking the test, I could see the youth getting discouraged failing each time. So, we shifted our plan of action and dedicated a good two weeks of studying the manual, setting a date, and prepping day and night. As we stepped foot into the DMV nerves were high. The youth had gone back to take the test, and about 20 minutes had passed she turns the corner with the biggest smile on her face. In this moment I knew all of her hard work and dedication had paid off. The feeling of helping a youth not only pass her permit but guide her to see her worth was one of my favorite moments of all time. This is why this work is so amazing, and more importantly that Northwest Family Services was able to make all this happen for youth across Clackamas County.

One of our adolescent clients had been regularly engaging in risky behavior associated with her substance use. This was one of the ways her trauma manifested itself into her daily existence. For her, it was a coping mechanism, how she demonstrated her pain, and a way to ask for help.

She had ended up in the hospital on multiple occasions, participated in In-Patient Treatment in the past, and attempted suicide multiple times. She was doubtful anything would change with treatment this time around. After three months of consistent Outpatient Services, she completed services.

By the end of treatment, she was re-inventing herself, listening to new music, trying out new clothing styles, got a job, became a bookworm with an interest in Theology and dark romance novels, pulled herself away from drama at school, and significantly decreased her substance use; as well as the risky behaviors associated with it.

Her story is demonstrative that extra support can make a big impact, and I am so glad we could be a part of that support for her.

I am a CADC II and clinical supervision at NWFS, primarily working with youth who are struggling with substance use. NWFS provides treatment services to youth in schools and out in the community. Not only does NWFS provide youth with excellent SUD services, working with community partners, they also support youth with other needs like clothing and food. Northwest Family Services is an outstanding agency that provides exceptional service for the community.

They have done a great job providing resources and extra support in the schools.

One of my clients quit vaping shortly after the school year. She used nicotine patches to achieve her goal and is now completely nicotine free. This youth has struggled with intense cravings all summer yet she has still been firm in her decision to quit. When asked the question, “do you think you are strong enough right now to say no when you are offered a vape once school starts?” This youth had enough self-awareness to say “no” and ask for help with this. With my support, this youth sat down and set detailed boundaries for herself. She created a pros and cons list and made commitments to what she would do if she did decide to say yes, including meeting with a counselor again. This youth is impressive because she knows she is going to be faced with opportunities that could impede her sobriety yet has decided to take steps to prevent that from happening.

My name is Elda, and I have a friend who received a free mammogram through the ScreenWise Program at NWFS. She worked with Darina Sanchez and gave me her number, encouraging me to call. Darina helped set up the Dr. visit and mammogram, also scheduled a taxi for me. She came to both of my visits to help me with everything. I have trouble walking and Darina made sure the clinic had a wheelchair waiting for me, then she pushed me around everywhere I needed to go. It was kind of overwhelming and I don’t know how I would have managed it without her. The clinic told me I should have a follow-up visit in 6 months. Darina has checked in with me several times and will be helping to set up my next appointment at the end of this year. I want everyone at NWFS and the ScreenWise Program to know how much I appreciate the help and support. Que Dios te bendiga – May God bless you.

There are many stories to tell. Unfortunately, due to the recent stabilization, not all the participants who have been helped are ready to share their stories. I have been helping youth obtain stable housing, get back on their feet, find jobs, and pursue their goals.

Among all of them, I will share some stories:

She participated in the Youth housing program as a single mom to one child. She had no housing, no mental health support, and no job. She has a long history of depression, anxiety, and PTSD (diagnosed) that has immensely impacted her quality of life and ability to maintain stability. I thank the case staff for their dedication and willingness to succeed from the participant. Her daughter just started preschool this September. She does receive mental health treatment and is currently interviewing for a part-time job while her daughter is in school. She has stable housing and is very excited to keep going."

" Thank you, NWFS. I couldn't do it by myself."

Jane Doe.

My name is Nenetzi Yañez.
Last April I was diagnosed with breast cancer. The process was not easy, but thanks to Olga Rodríguez and NWFS everything has been easier.
In February, during a self-examination, I detected a lump in my breast. I was on my period and thought it would go away, but after a few weeks, one day I woke up with pain at night. That made me panic and I had to check myself again. I didn't know where to go, to get care. Searching on the Internet, I found the phone number of my angel Olga for my "Olguita." without her, I don't know what I would have done. From the first call, she gave me the peace of mind of knowing that I could have care and she guided me through the process from the initial consultation with the doctor, mammogram, biopsy, and ultrasound. At the same time, she referred me to a person to get insurance for my care. When the diagnosis finally arrived that changed my life... I was very scared since the beginning they told me that my tumor was growing quickly and I didn't have the resources for my care, but Olga always helped me. When I got the diagnosis, I was approved for insurance, which gave me peace of mind to focus on my health and not on how I was going to pay for it. I arrived at my first chemotherapy with doubts and a lot of uncertainty, but the support group meeting that Olguita invited me to join virtually opened my horizon. I learned about several associations like NWFS and Pink Lemonade, they motivated me to fight and to continue since I had the opportunity to meet and receive advice from many women who, like me, are going through a similar process that is not easy, but we always have hope that this too will pass.
Today I had my third chemotherapy. The doctor gave me good news. My tumor shrank by 3 cm. Every time I can, I will tell all the women in my community that there are programs and associations like Northwest Family Service and Pink Lemonade. Thank you for all the support!

Nenetzi Yañez

Sent from my iPhone

“The Recovery Support Team would like to share a success story that is pretty fresh for one of our A&D client’s. This individual has worked with the RST over the last few years off and on. He has been institutionalized and houseless for a majority of his life but has never been given the opportunity to go to residential treatment for his substance use disorder. The client and the RST team worked diligently to remove barriers and increase his access to treatment. A few weeks ago, the client was able to transition into residential treatment and has since stabilized continuing to participate in treatment. His ODHS caseworker recently reported that she has never seen him look so happy. We are so excited for this individual as we have been a part of his journey over the last few years. This serves as a reminder that we never give up on our client’s no matter where they are at in their life! We do recover!!”

In the last month, I have had the joy of taking youth in the CIP program to go shopping for school supplies, school clothes, and hygiene items. This is one way we like to alleviate the burden of having an incarcerated parent on the family. On one of these school shopping excursions, I picked up a mother and son to go shopping. The mother and son had almost never been apart due to the youth's medical needs and so it was important to go together. The family has now worked with NWFS for many years and faced numerous battles from health to severe anxiety, to injuries, to great stigma coming from being mistreated particularly in the school system. After a full morning of stocking up on the needed clothes and enjoying coffee, we were on our way back. As I casually chatted with the mother, she brought up on her own accord, her observations about NWFS staff. She commented on the number of NWFS representatives she has worked with, and how touched she was by how genuine they have been. She said that you can just tell when people genuinely care. It was a simple yet profound moment, when the conversation breaks from the weather and normal small talk, to acknowledge the deeper human emotion happening underneath; a moment marked with a subtle yet palpable sincerity. We were on the way to drop her and her son off with new clothes (with which her son was positively beaming), but her soft thank you was evidently about more than clothes or a new backpack. Tucked into her tone was a gentle "thank you for seeing me," "thank you for listening," "thank you for caring." While being sure to maintain focus on the road I quietly digested her words. I turned to her and in the words I could, reiterated, that it was truly an honor.

As I witness the brave souls I work with gratefully receive, it humbles me and teaches me to receive. As I pour into these people, they in turn, find ways to pour into me. As I see them grow, I see myself grow.

The first client I housed moved in to her apartment in November 2023. She was only 23 years old and had been homeless the entirety of her adulthood years. That spring before I met her, she had detoxed off fentanyl and left an abusive relationship. The day I moved her in, she could easily fit all her belongings into my small Toyota corolla with her two dogs. We bought furniture for her, and I helped her get food stamps and a bus pass. The first few months of living in her apartment, she got complaints because of her dogs barking and her abusive ex trying to visit often. She struggled with depression and would sleep through the day, and when I’d visit her apartment was often a mess.
Through coaching and meeting her where she’s at, she started building strong boundaries with people in her life. I supported her in setting routines with her dogs and for cleaning her apartment. I visited her this summer and she was smiling, vibrant, and excited to share she got a job as a receptionist and showed me that her apartment was clean – and well decorated! Her dogs were excited to see me but also tired from the walk she took them on earlier. She is in a happy, healthy relationship and has not heard from her ex in months. She has not gotten complaints from neighbors or property management in months. We are so proud of her and her growth since starting our program!

As a Youth Alcohol and Drug Counselor with Northwest Family Services, I am privileged with the opportunity to affect change that will carry over for youth into their adult lives. One such experience that stays with me is the time I was able to work with a youth that reported he was never able to trust an adult or feel he could open up. Over the course of our time working together, I was successful at building the rapport I needed to get him to open up. This is because I always showed up and was a voice for him when he couldn’t find his. When we finished up services, he let me help him find a counselor and move forward with building up his mental health. His mom let me know that she never saw him more excited to meet with someone ever in his life, and I gave him the self-assurance to reach out for more help when he needed it, and that it was okay to do it. In the end of services, he was clear of all substances, learned how to advocate for himself, and built new self-confidence. It's so powerful to be a part of change like that. I am so proud of the work we do at this organization and so glad that I get to be a part of it.

I am very grateful with Northwest Family Services for all of the support that I have received from them. I am very thankful for the free air conditioner that I received; It was very unexpected for me. The lady named Olga advocated for me in different ways and I wanted to also thank her for all of the services that are offered to the community. Specially for the senior Latinx people because everything gets harder to obtain when your income is very low. From deep in my heart, God bless you.

For the program Abriendo Puertas/Openning Doors
Provided by Northwest Family Services by Olga Rodriguez
I want to thank for the opportunity to participate in the “Chalas Abriendo Puertas” For me it was a great teaching about the development of children. Now I feel more empower in order to help my children in their development in each area or their growth.
I really liked in how the educator Olga provided the Charlas. Everyone participated and learned one to another. Also the resources and videos she showed us helped me to see the need to inform us in how to help and guide our children. Thank you Educadora, Olga Rodriguez.

My team member was able to help an elderly Milwaukie resident who lives by herself, and she is not able to walk much due to various illnesses. He was first connected with her after someone from another organization (Ant Farm) reached out asking if he knew of any food pantries in the area that did free food deliveries for seniors. After some investigation, he learned about the Clackamas Service Center who provides free food box deliveries for certain zip codes around Clackamas County. They operate through an online form where participants can request specific food items up to twice a month per family. The Milwaukie resident expressed that she was not very tech savvy and preferred to speak to someone in person. The team member decided to schedule a house visit so that he could assist the client in person and show her how the application works. The client was very thankful that our team member was able to assist her in person since she does not have any family nearby and moved recently to her apartment community. After a little under two weeks, she finally received her food box and was very happy.

This was expressed from a participant who attended one of Olga Rodriguez's parenting classes:

I learned a lot from the topics Olguita covered in her parenting classes. It was a great opportunity to hear the perspectives of other parents and hear any advice or wisdom they might have. We learned a lot about the development of children and this has made me more confident as a parent to raise my children. The topics she covered are stuck in my head now and I am really thankful.

I serve as the principal of a charter high school in Clackamas County, serving primarily non-traditional learners who have faced high levels of trauma and barriers to accessing school. NWFS has been a partner for several years, providing school based drug and alcohol counseling during the school day to students who are struggling with substance use. This year we began to suspect fentanyl use among our student body, and this was quickly confirmed by law enforcement alerting us to two students who were battling fentanyl addiction. Additionally, local and national statistics highlight the growing danger to youth of fentanyl poisoning.

We knew we needed to address the need for shame free education and knew it should come from relatable, supportive experts. The NWFS team were the right people to collaborate with us. They put together a fantastic assembly, blending information with stories of survivors of addiction. More than 10 representatives from NWFS and other local organizations working with youth who are dealing with substance use showed up to be on hand to answer questions and show the student body the support they have in the community. Students were highly engaged, asking questions, and later shared their gratitude with school staff for bringing in NWFS to put on the assembly. We are so thankful for their ongoing partnership!

I started working as a NWFS tutor about a year ago. I am a licensed teacher with a bilingual endorsement (ELD) and I spent the past 30 years teaching ELD/ESL to adults and students K-8. I was also a classroom teacher for several years. The new NWFS tutoring job presented new and exciting challenges: tutoring students that are mostly HS age.
I came to the U.S.A. as a refugee at the age of 19 and still remember all the difficulties I had to face, including learning English and supporting myself while studying. Understanding the academic language, analyzing literary and scientific texts and writing essays and papers presented the biggest challenge during my studies.
My very first NWFS student was Rebecca, a bright 18-year-old HS girl who spoke 3 languages at home (Romanian, Spanish, and English). Rebecca's English academic language (C.A.L.P.) was well developed, but due to missing almost a year of school during COVID, she was far behind... We talked and made a great connection. She showed me the missing assignments and we worked hard to complete them. I noticed that she was able to work independently once she knew what to do and how to approach a problem. With a little bit of guidance and newly found confidence and structure, she completed all the assignments and was ready to graduate! During our last meeting she left me the following note:
"Dear Julia, thank you so much for your help and support! I appreciate you as a person. I only met you a few times, but you are DEFINITELY my fav tutor!!! I hope the best for you in life. Have a safe trip to your homeland. Love, Rebecca"
This illustrates one of the many great services NWFS offers. Rachel is now a college student.
Success!!

A Sandy Vista resident heard from a neighbor that we could provide PPE. She specifically requested masks and gloves, and asked if we had other resources. We managed to put together a food box for her family, and once delivered she asked if we planned on putting together another vaccine event for the Sandy Vista Apartment Complex. I let her know we do not currently have any plans to do so, but I did manage to give her information about a clinic the county was putting on down the street. She thanked me and was grateful for the help we were able to provide. It felt great having somewhere to point this participant to and being able to answer questions to help with the vaccine hesitancy she was facing a while ago.

I was first diagnosed with breast cancer 15 years ago. I underwent treatment and was fine for five years. 10 years later, I was diagnosed with breast cancer again. At the beginning of my second diagnosis, the clinic I went to helped me apply for emergency medical assistance (CAWEM). Unfortunately, I was only able to get medical help when I was extremely sick because CAWEM does not cover cancer treatment.

A Northwest Family Services (NWFS) community health worker attended one of our breast cancer support group meetings at the hospital and talked to us about one of their programs, Project Access Network (PAN) and all the great benefits they offer. I enrolled into PAN and when Kaiser Permanente (KP) opened up their Community Health Coverage Program (KPCHCP), I was transferred from PAN to KPCHCP.

To be honest, I am extremely grateful for all of the support that has been given to me by the NWFS staff.

I want to say 'Thank you' for all the help and support I have received.

Thanks to the fabulous staff at Northwest Family Services Darin and Joey can now compete safely on the New Urban Basketball team!

Both students were excited to play basketball afterschool this year but were nervous about getting injured due to not having proper shoes for the sport. After receiving 75 dollar scholarships from NWFS both students have been able participate in every practice and scrimmage.

"Please let them know how thankful I am" Noted Darin.
"My feet don't hurt any more!" added Joey.

Although the team is small, the impact of having positive activities for our students is huge. Thank you Jayne. Thank you Northwest family Services. Because of your grant two students are participating safely and having fun!

I cannot even highly express my gratitude towards all of you amazing people. It was such a blessing to receive all of the gifts for college you all provided for me. It’s crazy how big hearts you all have for a individual you don’t know, I’m so grateful to know there’s people like you guys in this world. I have so much love for you all you guys make me feel so loved and special , thank you so much you’ve really supported me and my family, I feel so much love from all of this. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to grow and feel good about my future I have a lot of love for all of you. Thank you for your guy’s hospitality and generosity thank you for everything!!!! Xoxo, Sarah

Rachel has been served by NWFS since she was in the 8th grade by first being in a middle school prevention education group. Rachel has had many challenges through her home life such as poverty and homelessness, but never gave up on her education. Despite the crazy last two years and online school she is proud to say that she graduated High school from Reynolds High School! Just the beginning of this year Rachel was struggling with not being on track to graduate due to COVID-19. She worked so hard and was able to complete her normal 8 classes schedule while also doing two credit recoveries. Rachel would also use our tutoring services up to 5 hours a week to get the help needed. She can now say she did it and will continue to work with her case manager to apply for college/trade schools and got her first job this summer. Rachel has identified that she wants to be an ultrasound technician.

I was a participant of the Advocacy and Empowerment summer camp. This camp meant a lot to me. I was able to meet other teens around my age instead of stay home by myself all summer since my parents work. I loved all of the interactive exercises that we did and especially enjoyed the games that we played. I also learned a lot about advocacy and made some art work to reflect my feelings on flavored tobacco. The most impactful part of the camp was when we got to stand up in front of city council and share our artwork and our story about flavored tobacco and vaping. It made me feel very nervous but it was also very empowering.

"I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2006, and I did not have any insurance.
Project Access Network (PAN) was able to help me to have my surgery and get
treatment without having to pay anything out of pocket.
In 2018, through the support group at the hospital, I received information about
the Kaiser Permanente Community Health Coverage Program (KPCHCP) through Northwest Family Services (NWFS). I am not able to drive, so Yaira, NWFS community health worker, came to my house and helped me fill out my application. I had KPCHCP for 4 years and now, due to my age, I qualify for the Healthier Oregon program. I am happy I was able to keep Kaiser as my provider.
NWFS and Kaiser Permanente are an excellent team. They are
very committed and have great human value for the people that need it.
Personally, they are the best services I have ever received.
It is good to know about these services, because there are a lot of people in our
community that do not know these services exist. It is nice to share what I know
and be able to share my experience as well."

Guadalupe was diagnosed with breast cancer in late February/early March
of this year. The Salem Cancer Institute sent a referral to Northwest Family Services (NWFS). It was received by Yaira, the community health worker.
Guadalupe told our team, "I am extremely happy with all the services Yaira
gave me. She helped me get Kaiser Permanente (KP) insurance. I am
extremely happy with both NWFS and KP for the way they treat me and how
helpful they have been. Everyone at NWFS and KP are super friendly and
supportive; they all treat me very well. I am still in treatment, but I have
been getting good results. I thank God for everyone that has helped me
through this process. When I was diagnosed, I was scared not only because
of cancer but my first thought was, 'I do not have insurance and will not be
able to afford treatment.' Economically this program has been really
helpful, and I am very grateful for all that the program has given me."

"My counselor, Helen has helped me so much. I have been so depressed and sad because someone I trusted hurt my child, and I did not know. Helen has helped me to manage my emotions and guilt for not knowing. Now I can share my feelings and fears with my partner and we can support each other. I didn’t know what to do when my child had nightmares, now I know how to be calm and help my child. I know we can handle this and whatever may come up in the future."

Thank you so much for this amazing course! We have learned so much through North West Family Services and are excited to use NFP in our marriage!

The SymptoPro course I took through North West Family Services was very informative. I wasn't sure if I was going to understand the online course vs an in-person course, but it was the best option for me. It gave me great information and examples to understand every lesson and apply it to my charting. My instructor was very helpful in giving me detailed explanations on what I needed to improve on my charting. I would highly recommend this online NFP Course to everyone.

“While working for the LatinX Go Team program one of our clients needed assistance with paying utilities, rent, food and household items, food as well with Mental Health support. She was struggling with getting adapted to the new normal in this pandemic time as well as recuperating from a surgery. She was really worried about not being able to go back to work and with this she was dealing with some stress and depression caused by being behind in paying bills.

This was a clear example of social determinants of health that were not quite there to lead a stable and happy life. While I worked with her giving her Psychological first aid, she expressed she was feeling better being able to talk to someone about her difficulties, also LatinX Go Team was able to help her with food, a gift card, and referred her to different NWFS programs to pay her utilities. During times like these, it is hard to see light at the end of the tunnel. We sometimes forget how much of an impact listening to somebody can do for their spirit.

She was so thankful for all the help and stated that no one ever helped before like our team was able to help her.

Sandra Cole
LatinX Go Team- Child Specialist NWFS”

“Hello Yaira, I want to notify you that my wife's operation has been a success, last Monday she had the last consultation and the doctor is very happy with the results and recovery. We want to tell you that we are very grateful for all the help and attention in this process, please extend our gratitude to the organization and your entire work team and we pray to God to bless and protect them so that they can continue helping the community. From the bottom of our hearts ♥

Thank you Pedro and Ledys”

For students, connecting with school and friends this year has been harder than ever. One student we were working with before and during the pandemic was really struggling to get connected with online school. When he was at school in person, he faced intense anxiety about being at school and dealt with bullying regularly. We thought he might thrive with online classes instead, but it seemed the complete isolation was too much. Teachers and school staff were struggling to reach out to this student, but through our already established connections with him, we were able to start weekly phone call check ins. We found out he was feeling very lonely, so we got him connected to our virtual after school offering of Gardiner Gatherings and GO for Gardiner Middle School Students. These clubs focused on helping students develop healthy self-care habits, and also we gave students the opportunity to be creative and help others. The students in the club wrote hopeful and inspiring poems. They made graphic art to share the poems and we made them into magnets, buttons, posters and flyers to give to Clackamas Behavioral Health clinics and to the counselors at Gardiner to give to struggling students during porch visits. This student felt really great about this since he struggles with his own mental health but also really cares about supporting others.
In the Spring, we started offering an in person weekly Hiking Club to walk a three-mile loop with students around the Clackamas River. This student’s family felt better about having him join a small outdoor group rather so he got to join! He was both excited and nervous to be in person meeting other students. He got along really well with the students and started making friends easily, which he felt he struggled with before. He was so excited about getting out and hiking, that he asked his parents for hiking shoes for his birthday. While he was making new friends and getting some exercise, he also started getting more focused on school. One day after hiking club, he asked me if I could help him find a tutor to get his grades up and catch up on school work. In a check in, he said he wanted to “pass eighth grade if it’s the last thing I do!” It was so great that our services were able to help a student regain confidence in feeling like he can help himself, help others, make new friends, and succeed in school.

As a Family Resource Coordinator with Northwest Family Services I have had the privilege of supporting students and families at the Oregon City Service Learning Academy. This past year has been exceptionally difficult for many families. Students and their families have had to adapt to life during a pandemic, navigate school closures, and most are struggling with financial insecurities. Finding resources during these times have been critical for the student’s success academically, as well as for their overall well-being. Below is just one example of a family that I have been providing ongoing support to during these difficult times.

I first met this family during a socially distanced home visit with the school counselor. The school was concerned due to the students lack of engagement during remote learning. During the home visit, we had learned that the student and their family were struggling financially and needed assistance accessing community resources. After the home visit, I helped the family by locating and accessing local food pantries, job resources, and new clothing for the student donated by Bloomin’ Boutique. The student started coming to school during the last few weeks of in-person learning. Teachers reported that she was engaging with peers, engaged in class, and doing well academically. Just recently the student had been selected to join a competitive dance team. The mother reached out to me for resources and, together, we were able to apply for a sports fee scholarship that awarded the student $300. It was incredible to hear how excited the student was to be able to participate in dance with their friends.

My support for this family is ongoing as we navigate resources for rent and utilities as well as support during the upcoming school year. I am so grateful to be able to see the positive impacts that community resources have on our students and families.

Through this last year some students that felt more comfortable staying online were allowed to do so while others headed back to part-time in person learning. We wanted to make sure that those students still had enriching opportunities and felt included in their learning. Throughout the distance learning during the thick of COVID, we offered many virtual programs that included basketball camps, girl’s empowerment, arts and craft activities and STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Art & Mathematics. We supplied all the kits and materials that the students would need and connected weekly to work on the set activities together. Once we got back into the schools we decided to keep a once a week meet up with a group of students that had stayed virtual. In this weekly offering we did many activities like planting small gardens, working through the book “This Book is Anti-racist,” and filling out mock job applications. This group was smaller and was focused on the interests that the kids in the group had. One girl and her sister stuck through the group throughout the whole year and was eagerly engaged. Once Summer hit the family had felt a little more comfortable about the girl’s going out. As a team we decided to put on a week-long park event for families we work with. We brought snacks and games, as well as arts and crafts. These girls participated in our event as their first outing and were able to meet some other kids in their neighborhood. They were so happy to get out and make slime they decided to join another event that we had a few weeks later. This event was a collaboration with another non-profit that provided all the materials that the students would need to fish and bussed them to Hornings Hideout. The girls caught three fish each and had so much fun at this all-day event. After that wonderful event all the kids got bikes and fishing poles, life jackets and shirts to take home. Another virtual event that we have been offering this summer is called Summer Steps. The girls were eager to join this program as well and have been coming weekly to learn about different aspects of overall health. We give away prizes and teach the importance of physical, mental, and social health through activities that the whole family can participate with. I feel that our program has been able to provide a wide range of options that are creative and engaging, especially for these specific students. On top of these offerings we were able to deliver food and diapers weekly, and help pay some rent and utilities for this family. I feel really lucky to be a part of such an impactful non-profit in our community during these trying times. Seeing the excitement and engagement with our programs from students like these really keep us passionate about our work ������

As a Site Coordinator within the PreventNet Department at NWFS, we saw a lot of success during the year of COVID. One of the most exciting things we did was create a weekly Hiking Club for students to have a chance to get outside and make friends. Some students who joined felt extremely isolated at home during the school year, and Hiking Club was the first event their parents allowed them to do in person as it was outside and obeyed COVID guidelines. One member said it is the best thing she did all year and another member said he would consider it an early birthday present to be able to attend the club! We loved seeing the students learn and develop a sense of purpose and identity.

A Story of Hope

While the incidence of domestic violence is always too high, with the stress and isolation of COVID-19, data are showing that reported crimes have increased by over 40 percent.

I work with families who have young children. When a mom experiences domestic violence, her children are affected. Not only are they scared, confused, ashamed, and isolated, they are incredibly insecure and without support, experience long-term physical and emotional effects. They also have a traumatized mom.

One mom I helped has a 3-year-old and 7-year-old. They all suffered domestic violence while living with the father. The children regularly experienced and witnessed verbal, emotional, and physical abuse. Mom made the decision to make a change and advocate for herself and her children. I worked with them to stay in our culturally specific women and children’s shelter, Casa Esperanza. Soon after, Mom was accepted into a low-income apartment. To finally have a place to call home for her children was such an incredible accomplishment.

Mom found a part-time position as a customer service employee which soon became a full-time position. I helped the family enroll in DHS/Employment Related Day Care services so mom could work and pay their rent, bills and other needs. We were also able to assist with basic needs such as rent assistance, food boxes, hygiene products, diapers and wipes, and free internet through Comcast.

The 7-year-old son is in elementary school and the 3-year-old is in child care while mom works. This type of trauma doesn’t usually go away without professional help. We worked to get the kids in mental health therapy to address the trauma.

I continue to work with them as mom and the kids suffer the after effects of living in a home with domestic violence. We expect, because we acted quickly, that a full recovery will occur. It is so rewarding to really help families. It takes time, caring, and resources.

“I have permanent nerve damage in my arm because my dad used to throw knives at me,” recounts 15 year-old Benjamin, one of our children of incarcerated parents (CIP) kiddos. “I never really had a childhood because as young as five years old, I was expected to take care of my younger siblings. I was angry a lot and showed it because that’s how my dad acted.”
Benjamin has been a part of our CIP program for several years. Northwest Family Services’ CIP staff provide constant support for the children and families/guardians. On a 10-point scale that measures childhood trauma, our CIP children have an average score of 9. This means they are more likely to engage in risky behavior and their future health is in jeopardy. That is where we comes in to provide support, skills, resources, love, and build resiliency and hope. And it works!
Benjamin is one of hundreds that we have supported. “I love football. NWFS connected me with Coach Jeff to be my mentor. He has taught me to be what it means to be a man. I’m doing well in school now, I have goals, playing football, and the CIP team took myself and some other kids to tour a university. No one in my family has gone to college, but I want to go now – be the first one. They help me in so many ways I can’t even describe how it feels that they care so much. I’m a different person.”
Our CIP students face countless burdens every day; most of them experience homelessness and food insecurity – School is the last thing on their list because they are just trying to survive. Our program offers long-term support that includes a caring, stable community that connects them with many resources along with a solid mentor, just like Coach Jeff. We start working with them as early as kindergarten. We provide an 8-week program for young children in Kindergarten-4th grade called, “Big Challenges.” Here are a few comments from the little ones: “I don’t want this group to end. I feel safe talking here.” “We get to talk about how we feel and you understand us.” “I like everything! Mostly the support from everyone – I thought I was the only one with a mom in jail.” This short intervention allows a space for the children to express themselves and to “feel they aren’t alone.” It removes the stigma. Unfortunately, the funding was significantly cut, so we had to drop the program for younger children and reduce the number of children and youth served.

Veronica joined our mentoring program when she was in seventh grade and had recently been removed from her mother’s care due to sever neglect. Veronica was timid and shy and struggled to make friends at her new school after she was placed into her foster home. As the years past, Veronica grew into a remarkable young woman. Veronica’s foster family turned into a guardianship arrangement and she began to call the family members by traditional titles like ‘mom’ and ‘brother.’ Veronica’s foster parents gave birth to two sons which she has been the big sister to every moment of their lives. During her time in our program Veronica was able to access extra-curricular activities like competitive cheerleading. Veronica graduated from Milwaukie High School June 2018, where she is the first in her biological family to do so. Veronica started her first job at doing childcare during parenting classes at NWFS. Veronica developed an incredible work ethic and found a new sense of independence. Working as a childcare provider gave her an important opportunity to develop hard and soft job skills that will serve her for the rest of her life. Veronica decided to find another job and applied at Old Navy in April of 2018. Veronica’s transition into early adulthood and her resiliency are truly noteworthy as she completed her senior year while holding down two jobs and planning for her future. Veronica is currently enrolled at Clackamas Community College and will start studying criminal justice in the fall. Veronica’s future goals include becoming a police officer and being a foster mother. Veronica is an amazing example for other kids, a support to younger students, a future mentor for our program, and a true inspiration to all that are lucky enough to know her.

Alex is an amazing resilient 16-year-old high school student. He was referred to NWFS last year as his father was sentenced to four years after years of domestic violence against Alex’s mother. Many times, Alex intervened and he went to them with a lot of trauma. Despite the upheaval at home, as well as being homeless, this young man’s resiliency is awe-inspiring. He has thrived in their program and getting to know him has been a joy. He is an active member in the JROTC program at his local high school and he is passionate about becoming a pilot. Through NWFS' programs they have been able to assist this young man in getting his driver’s license, basketball fees, new clothes, and school supplies and be a constant presence in his life. Recently Alex’s team took first place at the JRTOC competition. Their programs are striving to provide Alex with protective factors that might make the difference for him.

The SymptoPro Fertility Education course from Northwest Family Services has empowered me as a woman and allowed me to understand more about my own body. I can't believe I did not know these things before. Every woman should have access to this information!

I really enjoyed this course and did not expect to learn as much as I did about MY body! I had heard so many varying things about fertility awareness, but am glad I was able to take the course and learn first hand what it really means!

This charity has provided me with an amazing opportunity to get a quality education when I needed it most. Financial struggles were all too real, and financial aid was unavailable for the program that I was wanting. NW Family Services made the process of enrolling to both their program incredibly easy. and even assisted me with getting into the college program itself! I could not have done this without their help, and I am so happy I had reached out to them when I did. Even after my certificate was recieved, I was still offered food boxes, and even assistance with job placement! I would highly recommend this charity to anyone!

This is just one of many stories of students who have greatly benefitted from the support that Northwest Family Services can provide. “In the spring of the 2018-2019 school year, I started working with a student, AJ. He was really struggling to keep his grades up. Teachers had referred him to me so that I could help coach him in academic preparedness, organization, and study skills. When I first started working with him, he was failing every class and pretty discouraged. Upon initially meeting with him, I knew that setting small and quickly achievable goals would be beneficial to give him momentum to begin working on some longer-term goals. I would meet with him about once a week or once every other week. During our meetings, we would look at his grades online together, going through each class assignment by assignment. We would set goals for tangible things he would need to raise his grades incrementally. Usually, this consisted of turning in missing work, talking to a teacher after class to ask for a handout that had been lost, or putting reminders in his phone to do his weekly band assignments. He quickly was able to raise nearly all his Fs to Ds, and they continued to improve from there. I would write on a sticky note the concrete things we had agreed upon. He kept it in his binder, and we would review it the next time we met. Though small, he found this practice helpful to have items to consistently check off and keep himself on track. One of the times we met, he looked over at me and said, ‘I wish you had been here when I was in 6th or 7th grade. This would have really helped me then, too.’”
The simplest thing – a positive adult working in the school to offer one-on-one support and coaching to struggling students – made a world of difference in this student’s life, and in the lives of so many. Thank you for what you are doing to support vulnerable youth in our community.

When I met Kate, it was obvious that she had a strong personality that also came with the gift of leadership. She had a lot of questions about the services offered at NWFS and our staff, but did not tell us too much about herself. As the school year progressed, I found out that Kate experienced various challenges at school, such as getting into fights, missing school, and dabbling in marijuana use. But the thing that stood out to me personally was her difficult home life. The school administration informed me that her mother was a single parent who abused alcohol and often left the kids at home alone. Kate’s older brother was frequently in and out of juvenile detention, having stolen a car, and the children in Kate’s family were quite obviously victims of neglect. Kate frequently missed school in order to babysit her younger sister while her mother was absent from the home.

After growing a relationship with Kate, she began to discuss with me some of the challenges that the family faced and I knew that we could offer help. Around Thanksgiving time, we were able to partner with the local food pantry in Clackamas County to get their family a turkey. Following that, we continued to get support for Kate’s family through the local food pantry, and I referred Kate to NW Family Services’ alcohol and drug intervention program. The change in Kate’s energy was noticeable. We discussed an opportunity to take Kate to Blooming Boutique, a local Clackamas County non-profit, to receive an entire new wardrobe and hygiene items. Kate was ecstatic! The administration and team at NWFS noticed a positive change in her behavior following the support and resources offered through NWFS. Kate’s mother sent us a letter of appreciation, saying, “I wanted to reach out and thank you for the turkey and letting Kate access your resources. The hygiene items really help us out.”

This year NWFS was able to help Kate and her family succeed by providing different resources through partnering with other local non-profits such as the food pantry, to hygiene items, with the support of Blooming Boutique, as well as utility assistance during the COVID-19 crisis. NWFS was able to help create a consistent, safe, and stable environment for Kate and this family. They continued to stop by frequently to receive support from NWFS staff.

PIO participant Kenny Aromin posted this review on our Facebook page: "I had an Amazing opportunity to participate in a twelve week parenting coaching series. Learning through a great curriculum identifying skills and steps towards being the best parent I can be. The Instructor Samantha F. was helpful beyond belief. Over the course of the class she promoted a culture of trust and used positive reinforcement around situations that required delicacy. These our our kids we are talking about. I strongly recommend this to any parent looking to learning more about the potential they have. 10/10"

A middle school student, Aleah, who participated in the summer Photovoice program said: “Photovoice gave me a safe place to be this summer and pushed me to get out of my comfort zone. I’m not very good with words and I sometimes have a hard time saying stuff because I’m shy, but I’m really appreciative of how much you guys did for us and for the program.”

Faith Laughlin, a senior at Milwaukie High School, said that “PhotoVoice has helped to get me out of my shell and out of a negative mindset by allowing me a place to go to express myself, stay busy and connect with others in the summertime.”

Message for Rob Sellers, my career coach:
I wanted to thank you for both the wonderful classes and for getting back with those test results from the class. I have been feeling better both mentally and physically now that I am active about self-improvement and job searching. Thanks again for what you do!
________
*Rethinking Careers* is a 24 hr course that uses Cognitive Behavioral Techniques to help individuals manage their thinking, their emotions, and ultimately their actions. Job seekers face discouragement and negativity after knocking doors and not getting positive results, so this course helps them stay positive and use their strengths to present better in front of employers.

The NWFS SymptoPro Fertility Education course has caused us to grow as a couple in ways we didn't necessarily expect. Talking about this topic has prepared us for the future and caused us to joyfully anticipate the process once we're married. It has also caused a lot of discussion about our family planning intentions already. There are a lot of things to know and understanding your body (or your wife's body) is always a good thing.

To Ravin Brown- Parenting Inside Out Instructor
I just had to say THANK YOU! When I first showed to your class I was DREADING it. I didn't think I could possibly learn anything I hadn't already from just simply being a Mommy myself. Boy was I wrong. AND, not only does it help me feel like what I am calling a "Powerful Parent", but it works in every day life situations as an Adult. The roleplay we did for problem solving and effective communication and solutions helped me with dealing with CPS but it also helped me today in an unfortunate event; normally I would get mad and impulsively respond to the drama and instead I blocked the person off my social media and phone, I coached my own emotions and let myself cry and then get angry and then weighed out pros and cons or responding face to face or just letting it go. Then I sought emotional coaching from my Fiancé and my Mother.
So, in summary, I wanted to pay my respects by telling you this story, because what I'm learning is truly improving my life in a way I didn't think was possible. I am so glad God put you in my life as my "Instructor" (not sure what to call it lol), because you have taught me how to control my own emotions and not have a mad outburst.

A letter from a client who received Family Navigation Services from Olga Rodriguez, NWFS family Navigator:

Hello, my name is Romi and I would like to share my story. I was in a financial bind, leaving one job to start a new one and had a week lapse between jobs. I was late on my rent, and an angel, Ms. Olga, called to let me know a former advocate, Amy, asked her to give me a call to see if there was anything she could assist us with. I took a deep breath and knew this was a God sending me a blessing. Ms. Olga came to meet with me. I told her my family dilemma and right away took me to Programa Hispano where I could apply for rent assistance. Ms Olga also took me to food pantries so my family could eat and have clothes. She also helped us with bus tickets so I could get to work. We are so very grateful and blessed to know that there is help from good people who care. Thank you to all caregivers involved in assisting my family. You all saved my heart from breaking and letting my kids down. I am now lifted and in good spirits.

I can't thank you enough Olga and your team of help!!!

Sincerely yours,

Romi and Family

Jenny was a student in our program last school year, and she came to me this year seeking help with transportation. I checked in with her occasionally last year, but she had great grades and attendance, was connected with ongoing counseling services and support, so I didn’t meet with her too often. This school year, her family has had some financial difficulties, and her boyfriend was displaced from his home so her family took him in an are currently supporting him. With two other siblings already, their family is now struggling to support everyone, and as the oldest sister, she has gotten a job to help support everyone. She’s only 16 years old, and has to work about 4 days a week after school, and since both parents work, she has to ride the bus to and from work every day. All she asked was for a month-long bus pass to get to her new job, and after that she would purchase her own bus passes going forward, so I applied for a scholarship through a local foundation to purchase a month pass through Trimet. Instead of just a month pass, they awarded her $100 loaded onto a Youth HOP pass, and I was able to give that to her. She was so surprised at the amount and extremely grateful, and let me know how much of a huge help that will be for her and her family!

I would like to thank NWFS again for their help in my employment search. I had my phone interview yesterday and it went great. I won't know the results until next week. However, I stood as suggested and took my "confident" stance I learned in class . What I learned in your workshop was invaluable. Even if this job does not come through, after your resume workshop and interview workshop I feel like I have tools to succeed.
Thanks !

Heather, a mother of five children, was initially referred to Yina, a Family Resource Coordinator for Northwest Family Services, a local church. Heather was in immediate need of several resources, she needed a lot of support. The mother was going through financial instability and was at a high risk of losing her home. She assistance to apply for health insurance for her oldest son, help connecting to a mental health provider for her seven-year-old daughter, transportation, food resources, GED classes, parenting and adult education. Yina was there to help there to help navigate complex systems with a highly traumatized family.

The family was successfully connected with resources. The Mom was able to successfully move into a more comfortable home, was connected to mental health services, was informed of GED classes and the registration process, local food pantries, parenting classes and got to apply on health insurance for her son. From chaos to stability, the family is now in a stable and supportive home.

They provide essential services to the local community that help the community thrive:)

This is an amazing non profit and I am honored to work for such an amazing company. The director of this place is beyond amazing and is able to take time aside and show each person how much she cares for each and every one of us. This company is open to suggestions and wants to continue to improve which I think many places seriously lack in that aspect. I have worked here for about two years now and I cannot believe the things that I have seen happen and how amazing it is to work for a nonprofit who not only cares about the community but also cares about their employees. We have the most amazing staff, most of who are over qualified for the jobs they do. They are all caring people who work hard and care about the people that they work with. I truly believe that if you are treated well in a company that it helps you to treat others around you even better. This place is amazing and I don't even have the words to explain how great it is.

I’ve worked for NWFS for five years, during that time I’ve been honored to work with a dedicated, committed staff who work extremely hard, often beyond their scheduled work hours! They believe in the agency mission and are committed to being agents of change. I’ve also had the opportunity, and been encouraged to grow as a professional. The agency culture is dynamic with a variety of grant programs, meeting so many different types of needs, all of which are focused on supporting the needs & growth of individuals and families, often in crisis. I feel gratified to work in a place that reflects my interests and values. I like learning about other cultures, and in a natural way sharing meals & learning about staff from other cultures.
At the end of the day, I go home feeling and knowing that I have made a difference.

As a local pastor I have used the Northwest Family services to come in and do a work shop for our marriages (couples) and I was impressed with the material, personnel, partnership and over all willingness to serve our community.
Thank you

Excellent WorkSource Clackamas class topics, plus session leaders are very knowledgeable and committed to the course subject material.

After being laid off earlier this year, I was fortunate to find the career workshops provided by Northwest Family Services. While my previous employer did provide employment assistance with a national outplacement firm, it was primarily through web-based seminars, which I found to have limited impact.

Having attended many of the career workshops offered by Northwest Family Services, I found them to be an ideal resource for my job search. I am particularly impressed with our facilitator, Rob Seemann, who brings a passion to his work, and really goes above and beyond with every class in order to address issues common to the group, as well as individual coaching and insights. Great job Rob, and to Northwest Family Services!

After meeting Rob Seemann and Lily Yurchenko of Northwest Family Services and attending their WorkSource workshops, I highly recommend them to other Clackamas County and Oregon residents. Rob is an excellent instructor who provides straightforward advice based on years of experience. He thoroughly listens to each individual who attends his classes and personalizes the suggestions he offers to match their current situation, which is exactly what people need to be successful with their career goals. Lily is an efficient administrator who is personable, professional and obviously well-organized. I have told several of my friends to attend these classes to learn more about valuable tips they could use to help strengthen their job search efforts.
-Kimberly Fitzke

This organization puts on great programs for regional schools, community, and even the world at large through its website programs such as natural family planning instruction.
One of its programs really changed the way that we interacted with our children in setting appropriate limits for dating. The lasting impact of this organization in improving the lives of program participants is incalculable!

Great place to receive services!
Everyone is always very helpful.

I did a Mental Health Peer Support Specialist training with NWFS and it was the best experience I could have asked for. The staff is amazing at what they do and they show they are passionate about improving the quality of life of every person and promoting empowerment. I hope to be able to attend other trainings offered by Northwest Family Services in the near future. I miss it already!

I love the trainings offered at Northwest Family! I have had the opportunity to take three trainings through this agency. I have left each training with news skills and tools that I can apply in my work with community members. Not only are the teachers professional, and knowledgeable about mental health, they also understand the work. I have bragged about your trainings, and I hope you continue doing the level of work for our communities. A big thank you!

I attended a training recently and Northwest Family Services and was highly impressed with the staff professionalism, knowledge and personable skills to work with the public and to meet the community's need.

Plain and simple, Northwest Family Services rocks! When offering a workshop to our clients, they were extremely flexible. They changed the normal time and day of the workshop to conform to the needs of our clients, and upon meeting them, they even personalized the content to match the skill set of the group so that they would get more out of the workshop. The participants loved everything about the workshop - the information, the discussions, the activities and the presenters! We so appreciate what Northwest Family Services does everyday to help the community - thank you!!

I have been attending the job search workshops of Northwest Family Services for several time now. Rob Seemann is a great career workshop facilitator, he is very lively, and he imparts wonderful learning skills for job searching. Since the week I attended his workshops, I have been getting a lot of phone calls for in person interviews from HR recruiters from companies I applied for, sometimes once to twice a week, which is a great batting average for me, considering my situation of being laid off from work! I encourage those job seekers to attend Northwest Family Services job search workshops! They will equip you with tools to land your dream job!

NW Family services provided professional advice during my job search that inspired me with confidence in my abilities. The people that run the programs are highly skilled. I'm so thankful that these workshops were available.

The best workshop class I attended was "Resume Writing." I immediately went home and revised my old resume. Within 2 weeks, I was being noticed!! It is a virtual world now and your resume and cover letter are what employers see first!! Made a huge difference for me. Thank you!!
Susan

I went to a class on resume preparation and was pleasantly surprised by how good the content was and how thoughtful and involved the instructor was. I plan on attending other classes as well now.

Amazing Work and presentation at KBOO FM from Nelson - Gino Reyes

I have had a professional relationship with this amazing organization for about 30 years. Though they service large numbers, I have always found each on their staff to be genuinely caring and personal in the delivery of services and in their quick attention to all the details related to their work. They are committed to excellence and it shows!

My experience over the past year as a board member and committee team member has given me a inside look to all of the great services and support that NW Family Services provide. This organization and it's dedicated staff provide an invaluable service to our entire community.

This is one amazing, dynamic organization that bolsters Portland-area individuals and families on multiple levels with very few cents of your dollar going to overhead. Check out their free community builder lunch events (see nwfs.org) and learn why you should consider this organization above other worthy outfits. I am honored to serve on the Board and encourage others to support NWFS.

Working with Northwest Family Services as a board member has been a truly rewarding experience. To see the creative, effective poverty solutions designed and implemented for youth and families is exciting, and enriching. The entire staff of NWFS should be commended for their hard work, and pursuit of excellence in service to our communities. Even at a professional level, I am able to see that the director and staff make every dollar count, and are accountable for how each dollar is spent.

NWFS is truly a first-class operation.

I came in to NWFS looking for job assistance. I was greeted by friendly staff and offered to take their Careerfit workshop, and I am so happy that I did. Thanks to their service I was able to get a job in 2 weeks time. Everyone is nice and seems to enjoy helping the community. I am so thankful for all their help and for the services they offer to our community!

My daughter and I had the pleasure of attending a class at providence hospital, put on by NWFS, about puberty, and general sex Ed specifically for girls and their mom's. It was fantastically informative and a great opportunity for my daughter to hear solid information about all the upcoming changes. Loved the healthy and faithful information on a basic intro to the natural process of reproduction and signs of fertility in our body. My daughter was really impressed and wants to know when and how to get NWFS in all the schools. More moms and daughters need to know about this tremendous resource. Thank you for the great, supportive, dignified and faithful work you do in our community.

Community collaboration is exceptional & valuable!

This place changes lives. The people really care and are committed to doing incredible work helping those in need.

As the coordinator for National Educators to Stop Trafficking (NEST) I get the distinct privilege of receiving success stories from organizations who work in the anti-human trafficking arena and have written prevention curriculum and resources for educators. Here is one about the "Deceptions" program facilitated by NWFS.

“Thank you so much for bringing this program to our school! I was trafficked last year when I was thirteen and had some really bad things happen to me. Girls need to know this is really happening in our community,” says a 14-year-old high school student.

Vancouver Police Department’s, Sergeant John Chapman explains, “Unfortunately, in the past two years local law enforcement has learned that domestic minor sex trafficking is a very real problem that greatly impacts our community. It is very exciting to have a new curriculum presented in our schools that will warn our boys and girls of the dangers and consequences that lurk within innocent locations and relationships. We need to inform our kids and give them skills to recognize threats and retreat.”

This non-profit has helped my family throughout the years. From being in the local middle and high schools where my children went and participated in the afterschool programs and field trips to the parenting and marriage workshops I received. Totally recommend!

I liked working with NW Family Services A&D specialist Casey Palmer because she helped me work through a difficult time when i lost my kids to DHS. She also assisted me into getting into treatment as well as self help meetings in my community.

I think Casey gave me good guidance on resources in the community, in our four months working together, she checked in with me every two weeks and always returned my calls.

I am a public middle school educator who welcomed experts from NW Family Services into my classroom to educate eighth graders about suicide prevention. The teachers were outstanding. The curriculum was comprehensive and appropriate to the age group. They provided empowering information that allowed students to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression, and how to respond. My students were provided with a procedure that emotionally supported them in the event that the curriculum triggered difficult personal feelings. The presenters' knowledge of pedagogy and best teaching practices was very evident, as they kept the students focused and interactive. I am ready to advocate again and again for this tremendously valuable program. I am certain it reached many students directly, and likely will save a life/lives indirectly. Thank you!

Northwest Family Services has provided the very best counseling I have ever had. After many years of going to counseling for help, I am finally able to make progress and feel encouraged and hopeful about my life. I highly recommend them to anyone who needs help or direction.

I've witnessed the staff and volunteers at Northwest Family Services bring stability and joy back to Portland-area families that struggle with life's challenges. This team's genuine concern and love for their neighbors radiates through their daily activities. A few weeks ago I attended a health fair at Milwaukie High School that Northwest Family Services organized. I was impressed at the resources that were provided: everything from free flu shots to free dental care (local dentists actually set up a mobile office and were working on teeth long after the fair was scheduled to end). No doubt that the man who received this dental care is now in a better position both physically and mentally. His new confidence will surely lead to a more successful job interview, which will ultimately lead to family stability. I'm proud to be affiliated with an organization that takes a long-term vision of improving lives, families and our Portland community.

As a kid growing-up in NewarK, NJ with an unstable family situation, there was no organization like NWFS in our community. I was lucky. My mother ensured that I had a strong support network outside of the home. Not many kids have that opportunity. I am honored and privileged to work with an organization that gives children and families the tools to succeed that I didn't have. We roll-up our sleeves up every day and get our hands dirty making significant impacts in the rich soil of people's lives. It doesn't get better than that!

Katrina N. was so helpful and kind during a very abrupt and scary time in my family's life. She truly was an angel that came into help us navigate where to begin to get help with resources when we had no idea where to even begin. I am so thankful for her and Northwest Family Services!!! Thank you, thank you!!!!!

I've had wonderful and extremely healing care through NWFS. I've seen one of their counselors over the past 6 years and received the highest possible care of any counselor/therapist I've ever seen. Their guidance has seen me through a struggling marriage that ultimately ended in a planned separation and then divorce. During that time my ex-wife and I saw ~5 other counselors and therapists including separate counseling sessions, joint sessions, and group sessions. Although well-intended, these other services didn't have nearly the expertise or qualifications that NWFS did. NWFS had highly trained and certified counselors with a wide background of experience and varied specializations to match our needs.
In subsequent years, their guidance has helped me through various life changes and challenges, including my father being diagnosed with cancer and the ensuing battle. Although I don't regularly see them anymore, I would unequivocally recommend their services to anyone.

My husband and I have benefited so much from the counseling offered at NWFS in the past year. Our counselors are extremely caring, competent, dedicated, and compassionate professionals who, we feel strongly, treat us with respect and are genuinely interested in helping us resolve our seemingly unresolvable problems. Our counseling experience elsewhere in the past was frustrating to us as we were directed to focus mainly on patching up various problems that never ceased to crop up at that time but weren't taught the necessary skills to overcome our problems. In contrast, the counselors at NWFS never fail to listen to us patiently and attentively, identify/recognize deep-rooted problems from the past, offer us objective opinions and practical advice, and encourage us to grow as a couple, as well as reaching emotional maturity as individuals. We are very much grateful for our counselors at NWFS and hope to continue our journey under their guidance.

Counselor who I saw was fine, the unlicensed one who saw my teen son was a loose cannon, did not get consultation from supervisor before he acted impulsively to break confidentiality. Created lots of difficulty for my family. Supervisor met with me but never provided follow up on plan to fix this problem, got my money back for the counseling but do not feel that these issues were really addressed, worry for future clients.