Local bank raises record amount for Mt. Hood Hospice Community fundraising events held April to June by Clackamas County Bank
By Brit Allen, The Sandy Standard
For decades, Clackamas County Bank has taken time every summer to raise funds for local nonprofit hospice organization, Mt. Hood Hospice. And every year they exceed the amount raised previously.
This Support Mt. Hood Hospice campaign kept that tradition alive, and CCB representatives were able to present the nonprofit with a check for $41,877.99 on July 1. Last year’s total was $38,493.22.
Last year the bank and local businesses adopted a new format for what was once a month-long effort, and provided a slate of events and opportunities for people to not only donate to the cause but come together as a community. This year they kept that arrangement, and held a variety of events starting in April and running into June.
Events included a dahlia growing seminar at Burns Feed Store, a day where a portion of proceeds made at Pleasant Home Saloon was donated, a Bingo night hosted by the Country Cutups square dancing club, the bank’s annual shred event, and a special screening of “Back to the Future at Sandy Cinema.” The bank also facilitated a 50/50 raffle this year.
Clackamas County Bank also collected donations at their branches, and matched up to $100 per donation.
“Every year we’re humbled and honored that they choose to help our nonprofit,” said Jolie Phanton, community outreach and volunteer coordinator for Mt. Hood Hospice. “We’re privileged to be able to serve families in this way.”
She added that the past few years she’s appreciated how the fundraising efforts have not only brought in dollars for the organization, but “engaged the community” as well.
Mt. Hood Hospice is a not-for-profit hospice organization, which provides in-home services for those needing end-of-life care, regardless of their ability to pay. They serve Clackamas County and East Multnomah County, within an hour radius of Sandy.
“As we see an increasing number of younger patients without private insurance, the importance of continuing this annual campaign has never been greater,” Mt. Hood Hospice Executive Director Rhonda Franke explained. “It allows us to provide compassionate care for patients, their pets, and their loved ones — regardless of their circumstances or ability to pay. Access to dignity and support at the end of life is something everyone deserves.”
Proceeds from the Support Mt. Hood Hospice events directly support patient care and essential programs, including the Community Fund and Pet Peace of Mind program. Funds raised throughout the campaign help ensure that no family receives a bill for hospice services and that patients can remain comfortable with the support they need, including assistance for beloved pets, through trained volunteers who help with walking, feeding, and transportation to appointments. In addition, this program helps cover the cost of food, routine grooming, and routine vet care.
“I would like to sincerely thank our employees, local businesses, and the many generous community members who helped make this year’s Support Mt. Hood Hospice Month fundraising campaign such a tremendous success,” said CCB President Justin Stuchlik. “So many of us have been touched by Mt. Hood Hospice’s unwavering commitment to providing compassionate care for patients and their families during life’s most difficult moments. Their promise that everyone receives hospice care, regardless of their ability to pay, is truly remarkable.
“That is why community support is so vital. Every dollar donated helps Mt. Hood Hospice continue to deliver exceptional care and services right here in our local community,” he added. “On behalf of Clackamas County Bank, thank you to everyone who gave, volunteered, participated, and supported this important cause.”
For more information about Mt. Hood Hospice’s services and support groups, visit mthoodhospice.org.