Trajectory Forestry Fundraiser Draws 160 Supporters, Raises $30,000 for Workforce Programs

On March 7, the Carver Event Center filled with the sounds of conversation, laughter, and the unmistakable tools of the woods as Trajectory hosted its 3rd Annual Forestry Fundraiser. The evening brought together about 160 supporters from across Oregon and Washington, all gathered with a shared goal of helping the next generation find a place in forestry and natural resource careers. 

Carver turned out to be an incredible place to host the event. (you should host your event there). The open space and beautiful grass made it feel less like a formal dinner and more like a gathering of friends from the woods. Before dinner began, six-foot double buck saws, axes, and chokers rested out on the lawn, just waiting to be used, while groups of forest folk enjoyed cocktails, swapped stories, and tested their skills in a few lighthearted games. It was the kind of scene that reminded everyone why this work matters and why the community behind it is so strong. 

Inside the event center, the night moved into dinner and the auction program. The event schedule included a few short speeches, dinner, a silent auction, heads/tails, 50/50, and a live auction that kept the room engaged throughout the evening. 

The auction itself was a highlight of the night and would not have been possible without Jake Stout Auction Services. Their energy and experience helped keep the room lively as guests bid on a wide range of items (apparently, loggers love fighting for cakes). From equipment packages and tools to fishing trips and handcrafted pieces, there was something that caught the attention of nearly everyone in the room. Friendly competition and plenty of laughter followed as the bids climbed. 

When the night wrapped up, the impact was clear. The fundraiser ended about $30,000 in the black. Those funds will go directly toward scholarships, direct-to-work support, internships, and local forestry education programs. Programs like these are at the heart of Trajectory’s mission to connect young people with meaningful careers in forestry, natural resources, and the skilled trades. 

A key moment of the evening came during the keynote address from Blake Manley of the Western Forestry Contractors Association and Manley Jobs. Manley spoke about how the workforce landscape has changed and how the forestry sector must change with it. His message focused on the importance of connecting youth directly with employers. Young people need clear pathways into the industry, and employers need to be part of that connection early. His remarks struck a chord with many in the room who understand firsthand how important mentorship and opportunity are for someone starting out. 

Events like this remind everyone that Trajectory’s work belongs to a large community. The teachers, forestry professionals, contractors, equipment operators, and supporters who filled the room all play a role in helping young people see a future in the woods. The fundraiser is not just about raising money: it’s about strengthening a network that helps students move from curiosity to career.

By the end of the evening, the room had that satisfied feeling that comes from a good gathering. Carver proved to be a great home for the event, and the turnout showed how many people believe in the mission. 

If you would like to join the Trajectory Network of mentors, or support it through donations, you can visit www.trajectorynw.org. They are going to need lots of help for the upcoming SICC Forest Festival behind Dick Hannah June 5th-7th.