Trajectory Forestry Fundraiser Returns March 7 With Local Impact at the Core

Trajectory puts on the annual SICC Forest Festival in Sandy every June, but their second biggest event of the year comes on Saturday, March 7, 2026. Trajectory will host its third annual Forestry Fundraiser at the Carver Event Center, continuing a growing tradition of investing directly in local students, workers, and forestry education programs across the region.

The evening opens at 4 p.m. with bar service and Timbersports on the lawn, followed by dinner and a live auction from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Proceeds from the event support Trajectory’s scholarship fund, straight-to-work support programs, and hands-on forestry and natural resource education initiatives.

In 2025, the fundraiser raised more than $40,000 for local students. Funds supported college-bound students pursuing forestry-related degrees, as well as community members entering the workforce directly after high school.

Awardees have a wide range of forest specific goals. Examples include: Dean Hamilton Burwash enrolled in the Forestry Program at OSU. Miranda Kajikawa is studying Fishery Sciences at Idaho State University. Cecilia Gonenne is pursuing Fire Studies at California Polytechnic State University. Each recipient is working toward a career that supports healthy forests, resilient ecosystems, and sustainable land management.

In addition to scholarships, Trajectory’s Forestry Fund focuses on “Work Support” funding for individuals entering the workforce without pursuing a four-year degree. These funds help cover essential gear and equipment that new workers often must purchase on their own. From the Sandy community, Trajectory provided work support for Declan Crouse as he began with Pierce Pacific. Beau Catt also received support funds as he entered the workforce with O’Malley Bros Corp. In both cases, funds went directly toward gear and job-required equipment, removing barriers to employment and helping local workers start strong.

“Trajectory exists to connect education, industry, and community,” the Executive Director, Austin Ernesti  said. “Whether someone is headed to college or straight into the woods, we believe there is a job in the woods for everyone.”

Trajectory is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to education, training, and celebration through hands-on ecological learning and locally sourced materials. The organization works closely with forestry professionals, educators, and employers to ensure that investments translate into real-world outcomes for students and workers.

The March 7 fundraiser offers community members a chance to support that mission while enjoying a high-energy evening centered on forestry culture. Tickets are $75 per person, with full tables available for $750, making it an ideal event for individuals, families, and local businesses.

Organizers encourage early ticket purchases, noting that last year’s event sold out and demand continues to grow. Every ticket and table purchased directly contributes to scholarships, workforce support, and local forestry education programs.

The Carver Event Center is located at 16077 OR-224 in Damascus. Community members interested in attending or supporting Trajectory’s work are encouraged to secure tickets soon at www.trajectorynw.org