Deaf & HoH Accessible Crisis Line

Video Phone with ASL

Available 24/7/365

Call VP (321) 800-3323

Crisis Resources and Deaf-Accessible Hotlines

The National Center for College Students with Disabilities (NCCSD) offers several resources and strategies to locate deaf-accessible crisis services, community resources and hotlines:

• Crisis Line for VideoPhone users who use American Sign Language (available 24/7): (321) 800-DEAF (321-800-3323)
• SAMHSA National Disaster Distress Hotline:
  • TTY Hotline: 800-846-8517   
  • VideoPhone Hotline: 800-985-5990
  • ASL NOW Button goes to link: https://vibrant.aslnow.io/app/8/10004
  • ASL FAQ & VIDEOS Link: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline/asl-faq
• National Suicide Prevention Hotline:
  • To chat online with a counselor (2pm-2am Monday-Friday Eastern Standard Time)
  • TTY Hotline: 800-799-4889
• Crisis text chatline:
  • free, available 24/7, sometimes has Deaf counselors available
  • text START to 741-741
• National Domestic Violence Hotline:
  • E-mail: deafhelp@thehotline.org
  • TTY: 1-800-787-3224 (24/7 hotline)
  • VP: 1-855-812-1001 (Monday to Friday 9AM—5PM Pacific Standard Time

Link: https://www.nccsdclearinghouse.org/crisis-resources.html

“when the world comes crashing at
your feet
it’s okay to let others
help pick up the pieces
if we’re present to take part in your
happiness
when your circumstances are great
we are more than capable
of sharing your pain”

― Rupi Kaur, The Sun and Her Flowers

PARENTING EDUCATION RESOURCES

OPEC has a new website! Visit health.oregonstate.edu/opec for the most update OPEC information. ORParenting.org will be phased out by the end of 2022.

OPEC HUBS IN OREGON

About OPEC Hubs

The Oregon Parenting Education Collaborative (OPEC) supports a statewide network of parenting “Hubs.” As part of their role, OPEC Hubs:

• Provide infrastructure to support parenting education efforts across their region, serving as a “go-to” place for families and community partners related to parenting resources and programs, support professional development opportunities for parenting education professionals, and collect data
• Foster community collaboration to coordinate parenting programs across community partners, build relationships between cross-sector partners, and leverage available resources in support of families
• Expand access to and normalize parenting education programs through a combination of direct service and mini-grants to partner organizations to meet the needs of all families in their communities. OPEC Hubs support a blend of universal and targeted parenting programs that are evidence-/research-based and culturally-responsive

The OPEC Logic Model illustrates the strategies, outputs, and outcomes of this work.

Ready to get connected? Your local OPEC Hub can connect you with in-person and remote parenting classes, workshops, resources, and family events in your community.

OPEC Facebook Page

https://www.facebook.com/OPECParentingEd/

Select From the Counties listed below to fund your HUB

FOR PARENTING EDUCATORS

Resource Tip Sheets

• Getting Started: A Guide for Parenting Educators
• Going Online: Positive Strategies for Supporting Virtual Parenting Education
• Virtual Learning During COVID: Supporting Parents for Childrens Success
• COVID-19 Resources for Children and Families
• Trauma Informed Care: Considerations for Remote Delivery of Parenting Education Programming
• Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
• Resource Guide: For Working with Foster Parents
• Gender Roles in Families

Parenting Education Curricula Resources

• Foundations of Facilitation materials
• Haga de la Paternidad un Placer (Spanish Version – Make Parenting a Pleasure)
• Incredible Years
• Make Parenting a Pleasure / Parenting Now
• Nurturing Parenting
• Parenting: The First Three Years Curriculum Training
• Strengthening Families Program for parents of 7-17 year olds
• Strengthening Families Program: For Parents and Youth 10-14

 Training Opportunities

• Essentials of Parenting Education Professional Practice
• Trauma Informed Care Training Modules
• I-LABS Training Modules
• National Alliance of Children’s Trust and Prevention Funds Online Training Course
• Oregon Association for the Education of Young Children
• Monitoring Fidelity in OPEC Series 2019
• Oregon Registry Online Training Calendar
• OrPEN Conference/Trainings
• Ask Phoenix Solutions
• The Ounce: Achieve OnDemand
• Division for Early Childhood – Learning Decks

Research

• Harvard University Center on the Developing Child
• Oregon State University Hallie E. Ford Center for Healthy Children and Families
• Zero to Three: National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families

Program Fidelity Rating Tools

• Monitoring Fidelity in OPEC Series 2019 (PDF)
• OPEC Fidelity Guidelines
• How to Rate Fidelity to Best Practices in Parenting Education User Guide
• Fidelity Best Practices Shortened Tool (PDF)
• Fidelity Checklist for Facilitators (PDF) & Fidelity Checklist for Facilitators Guide (PDF)

Additional Resources

• Diversity of Fatherhood Photo Bank
• Uber Central — organize rides for families or clients
• Zero to Three: Grandparent resources
• Bright by Text
• Simple Interactions Approach
• Fred Rogers Center
• Ages and Stages Questionnaires
• CDC: Act Early
• Liberating Structures — change the way groups work together

OPEC GRANTEE SITES

Grantee Directory

Contact information for each of the OPEC Parenting Education Hubs is listed below.

OPEC Parenting Hubs

Family Resource Center of Central Oregon:
Crook, Deschutes, Jefferson

Dee Ann Lewis
Executive Director
541.389.5468
deeannl@frconline.org

Kim Pitts
Program Logistics Coordinator
541.389.5468
kimp@frconline.org

First 5 Siskiyou:
Siskiyou, CA

Karen Pautz
Executive Director
First 5 Siskiyou
530.918.7222
karenpautz@first5siskiyou.org

Four Rivers Early Learning & Parenting Hub:
Gilliam, Hood River, Sherman, Wasco, Wheeler

Christa Rude
Regional Coordinator
541.506.2255
christa.rude@cgesd.k12.or.us

Shira Skybinskyy
Parenting Hub Assistant Director
sskybinskyy@cgesd.k12.or.us

Frontier Hub:
Grant, Harney

Donna Schnitker
Hub Director
541.573.6461
schnitkd@harneyesd.k12.or.us

Patti Wright
OPEC Grant Coordinator
541.620.0622
wrightp@harneyesd.k12.or.us

LaneKids:
Lane

Claire Hambly
Education Program Manager
541.741.6000 ext 141
chambly@unitedwaylane.org

Emily Reiter
Education Program Specialist
541.741.6000
ereiter@unitedwaylane.org

Marion & Polk Early Learning Hub, Inc.:
Marion

Lisa Harnisch
Executive Director
503.967.1187
lharnisch@earlylearninghub.org

Tiffany Miller
Communication Specialist and Parent Education Associate
503.485.3291
tmiller@earlylearninghub.org

Margie Lowe
Performance and Fiscal Officer
503.559.9610
mlowe@earlylearninghub.org

Mid-Valley Parenting:
Polk, Yamhill

Brent DeMoe
Director, Family & Community Outreach
503.623.9664 ext. 2118
demoe.brent@co.polk.or.us

Stephanie Gilbert
Early Learning and Family Engagement Coordinator
503.623.9664 ext. 2368
gilbert.stephanie@co.polk.or.us

Northwest Parenting:
Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook 

Dorothy Spence
Early Learning & Parenting Education Hub Coordinator
503.614.1682
dspence@nwresd.k12.or.us 

Elena Barreto
Regional Coordinator
503.614.1443
ebarreto@nwresd.k12.or.us

Parenting Success Network:
Benton, Linn

Mike Jerpbak
Department Chair, Parenting Education
541.917.4891
wolfej@linnbenton.edu

Sommer McLeish
Coordinator (Lincoln County)
541.557.6215
smcleish@samhealth.org

Parenting Together Washington County:
Washington

Leslie Moguil
Senior Program Coordinator
503.846.4556
leslie_moguil@co.washington.or.us

Pathways to Positive Parenting:
Coos, Curry

Charity Grover
Parenting Lead
541.266.3909
charityg@scesd.k12.or.us 

Take Root:
Douglas, Klamath, Lake

Julie Hurley
Parenting Education Coordinator
Douglas/Lake/Klamath
541.492.6607
julie.hurley@douglasesd.k12.or.us

Susan Stiles-Sumstine
Assistant Parenting Hub Coordinator
Douglas/Lake/Klamath
541.492.6604
susan.stiles-sumstine@douglasesd.k12.or.us

Sanora Hoggarth
Parenting Education Coordinator for Klamath County
sanora.hoggarth@douglasesd.k12.or.us

Umatilla Morrow Head Start, Inc.:
Morrow, Umatilla, Union

Aaron Treadwell
Executive Director
541.564.6878
atreadwe@umchs.org

Mary Lou Gutierrez
Parenting Education Coordinator
541.667.6091
mgutierr@umchs.org

Jen Goodman
Family and Community Partnership Manager (Union County)
541.786.5535
goodmajd@eou.edu

OPEC Funded Parenting Education Curriculum

Abriendo Puertas /Opening Doors

PARENTING EDUCATION BOOK LISTS

CUTTING OUT SCREENTIME: OUR FAMILY’S EXPERIMENT January/February 2022 

Run Wild 

by David Covell 

Daniel Finds a Poem 

by Micha Archer 

What to do with a Box 

by Jane Yolen & Chris Sheban

GETTING IN TOUCH 

WITH NATURE 

March 2022 

Green Green: A Community Gardening Story by Marie Lamba 

Lola Plants a Garden / Lola planta un jardín by Anna McQuinn 

Up in the Air: Butterflies, Birds, and 

Everything Up Above 

by Zoe Armstrong 

Greenie grows a garden / Verdecito cultiva un jardín (bilingual) 

by Harriet Ziefert 

Hasta Las Rodillas / Up to My Knees 

by Grace Lin (bilingual 

*This booklist provides recommendations 

based on the content of our monthly 

parent newsletter: Parenting Together. 

https://orparenting.org/parents/newsletters/ 

1 

GETTING MESSY 

AND BEING HANDS-ON April 2022 

Mix It Up! 

by Hervé Tullet 

Pinta Ratones 

by Ellen Stoll Walsh 

Edward Gets Messy 

by Rita Meade 

Ultimate Slime: 100 new recipes and projects for oddly satisying, Borax-free slime 

by Alyssa Jagan 

Mud 

by Mary Lyn Ray 

SIBLINGS & FRIENDS 

May 2022 

How Do Dinosaurs Stay Friends? / Cómo son buenos amigos los dinosaurios 

by Jane Yolen 

The Evil Princess vs. The Brave Knight by Jennifer Holm 

How to Apologize 

by David LaRochelle 

Maple & Willow Together / Arce y Sauce juntas 

by Lori Nichols 

Meesha Makes Friends 

by Tom Percival

GETTING CREATIVE WITH RECYCLABLES 

June 2022 

Recycle and Remake, 

edited by Hélene Hilton 

Rainbow Weaver / Tejedora del arcoíris (bilingual) 

by Linda Elovitz Marshall 

Out of the Box 

by Jemma Westing 

100 Easy STEAM Activities: awesome 

hands-on projects for aspiring artists and engineers 

by Andrea Scalzo Yi 

Recycling Crafts by Annalees Lim 

BUILDING EMPATHY USING STORYBOOKS 

July 2022 

A Kids Book About Epathy 

by Daron K. Roberts 

I am Human: A Book of Empathy 

by Susan Verde 

Caring with Bert and Ernie: A Book 

About Empathy 

by Marie-Therese Miller 

Empatía: una guia para padres e hijos by Patricia Fernández Bieberach 

Everyone… 

by Christopher Silas Neal 

GOING TO THE DENTIST August 2022 

ABC Dentist 

by Harriet Ziefert 

Does a Tiger Go to the Dentist? 

by Harriet Ziefert 

Max va al dentista 

by Adria F. Klein 

What to Expect When You Go to the Dentist by Heidi Eisenberg Murkoff 

Vamos al Dentista 

ALL ABOUT STRESS 

September 2022 

How Big Are Your Worries Little Bear? By Jayneen Sanders 

The Rabbit Listened 

by Cori Doerrfeld 

Breath Like a Bear: 30 Mindful 

Moments For Kids to Feel Calm and 

Focused Anytime, Anywhere 

by Kira Wiley 

Plantando semillas : la práctica del 

mindfulness con niños 

by Nhá̂t Hạnh 

Scaredy Squirrel 

by Melanie Watt

ALL ABOUT CALM 

October 2022 

Mindfulness Moments for Kids: 

Hot Cocoa Calm 

by Kira Willey 

Calm Monsters, Kind Monsters: a Sesame Street Guide to Mindfulness 

by Karen Latchana Kenney 

You Are a Lion!: And Other Fun Yoga Poses / Eres un león!: posturas de yoga para niños 

GET INTO THE KITCHEN November 2022 

Thank You, Omu! / ¡Gracias, Omu! 

by Oge Mora 

Cooking Class: 57 Fun Recipes Kids 

will Love to Make (and Eat!) 

by Deanna F. Cook 

Plaza Sésamo: C es de cocinar – recetas de nuestra comunidad 

by Susan McQuillan 

Kalamata’s Kitchen 

by Sarah Thomas 

FAMILY CELEBRATIONS December 2022 

Dumpling Day 

by Meera Sriram 

Alma and How She Got Her Name / Alma y cómo obtuvo su nombre 

by Juana Martinez-Neal 

The Heart of Mi Familia 

by Carrie Lara 

Mango, Abuela, and Me / Mango, Abuela y yo by Meg Medina 

We Are Family 

by Patricia Hegarty 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 

Opioid Recovery Resources

Addiction is a medical condition. Treatment can help. Recovery is possible.

Opioid addiction, also known as opioid use disorder (OUD), is a chronic and relapsing disease that can affect anyone. In fact, millions of Americans suffer from opioid addiction.

As with most other chronic diseases, addiction is treatable. If you or someone you know is struggling, treatment is available. While no single treatment method is right for everyone, recovery is possible, and help is available for opioid addiction.

Recovery is possible

Visit this link: https://www.beam.community/get-help-now/

COVID – 19 Resources

The Alexander Foundation is a non-profit, 501(c)3, all-volunteer organization whose sole focus is to give back to the LGBTQ+ community of Colorado.

WILDFIRE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS, RESPONSE AND RECOVERY

CALL 911 for emergency assistance.

Call 211 or visit 211info.org
for information and/or resources.

DISCLAIMER:
This information is provided solely as a courtesy without any guarantees or warranties of any kind whatsoever. Nothing in this communication, nor any content linking to or from this communication, is intended to substitute for advice or counsel from qualified professionals. You are hereby notified and advised to seek counsel from qualified professionals at your own risk and expense.

WARNING:
Never rely on any map for a decision regarding evacuation, or other precautionary actions.

When it comes to evacuation, DisasterAssistance.org says:
“Check with local tv and radio”
(7/12/2021)
Wikipedia:
Oregon Radio Stations
Oregon TV Stations

NOAA – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:
Oregon National Weather Radio Stations
Oregon Weather Alerts – Statewide
or By County or By Zone

DEFINITIONS / TERMS for Warning Status or Evacuation Level

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

National Weather Service Fire Warning Statuses

RED FLAG WARNING
The National Weather Service (NWS) may issue a
Red Flag Warning
to an alert people if there are
critical fire weather conditions
happening NOW or expected VERY SOON.
Be extremely careful with open flames.
BEGIN to take action steps NOW for safety.

FIRE WEATHER WATCH
The National Weather Service (NWS) may issue a
Fire Weather Watch
to alert people if there are
critical fire weather conditions POSSIBLE
but not immediate or happening now.
BE PREPARED to take action steps SOON for safety.

Source:

National Weather Service – Fire Information
https://www.weather.gov/fire

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Oregon Emergency Evacuation Levels

LEVEL 1: “BE READY” for potential evacuation.

Residents should be aware of the danger that exists in their area, monitor your telephone devices, local media sources, and county website to receive updated information.

This is the time for preparation and precautionary movement of persons with special needs, mobile property, pets and livestock.

If conditions worsen, public safety will issue an upgrade to a level 2 or 3 for this area.

LEVEL 2: “BE SET” to evacuate

You must prepare to leave at a moment’s notice

This level indicates there is significant danger in your area, and residents should either voluntarily evacuate now to a shelter or to family/friend’s home outside of the affected area.

If choosing to remain, residents need to be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice. Residents MAY have time to gather necessary items but doing so is at their own risk.

This may be the only notice you receive.

Continue to monitor your telephone devices, local media sources, county website to receive further information. If conditions worsen, public safety will issue an upgrade to level 3 for this area and will make every attempt to return to this location with the new upgrade notice.

LEVEL 3: “GO” Evacuate NOW

Leave immediately!

Danger in your area is current or imminent, and you should evacuate immediately. If you choose to ignore this notice, you must understand that Public Safety Officials may not be available to assist you further.

DO NOT delay leaving to gather any belongings or make efforts to protect your home.
This may be the last notice you receive until the notice is cancelled or downgraded.

Entry to evacuated areas may be denied until conditions are deemed safe by Public Safety Officials. Local and regional media partners (digital, print, radio), public safety and county website-social media sites-call center will provide periodic updates.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

STATE OF OREGON

OREGON – OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT – CURRENT HAZARDS DASHBOARD
Information on fires, volcanoes, earthquakes, floods, transportation, shelters and more.
plus daily report from FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Association)

https://arcg.is/140fCT

or

https://geo.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=cdf61542ff574df797bdae784992cc44&folderid=d152ce8b437c47b1ba66c125a3648822

OREGON WILDFIRE SITE
https://wildfire.oregon.gov

OREGON – PUBLIC HEALTH DIVISION – CURRENT HAZARDS
(Public Health /Preparedness)

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/PREPAREDNESS/CURRENTHAZARDS/Pages/index.aspx

OREGON – PUBLIC HEALTH DIVISION – EXTREME HEAT
(Public Health / Preparedness)

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/preparedness/prepare/pages/prepareforextremeheat.aspx

UNITED STATES – FEDERAL / NATIONAL

READY.GOV (Preparedness, checklists, information for the whole family)
https://www.ready.gov

FEMA Locations – Search by State / Zip Code
https://www.fema.gov/locations

FEMA Service Referrals and Resources for OREGON (PDF format file)
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-09/fema_oregon-referral_dr-4562.pdf

DISASTER ASSISTANCE
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/

** IMMEDIATE NEEDS **
such as
SHELTER, FOOD, WATER, MEDICAL, etc.

EVACUATE OR STAY PUT?

https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/immediate-needs/evacuate-or-stay-put

When it comes to evacuation, DisasterAssistance.org says:
“Check with local tv and radio”
(7/12/2021)

FIND EMERGENCY SHELTER
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/immediate-needs/emergency-shelter

EMERGENCY FOOD AND WATER
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/immediate-needs/emergency-food-and-water

DISASTER DISTRESS HOTLINE – TOLL FREE – MULTILINGUAL

CALL 1-800 985 5990

or

TEXT “TalkWithUs” to 66746

The Disaster Distress Helpline,
1-800-985-5990, is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline
dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster.

ALERTS AND INFORMATION

NEW OR-ALERT System

OR-Alert is an effort to ensure statewide access to receive alerts, warnings, and notifications (AWN) systems, enabling real-time sharing of hazard information across Oregon’s 36 counties and tribal governments. This technology also allows county emergency managers to access notification tools including FEMA’s Integrated Alerts and Warnings System (IPAWS) which is capable of issuing messaging to all cell phones in a geographic area.

This OR-Alert page will direct you to the sign up page for each county in Oregon

When it comes to evacuation, DisasterAssistance.org says:
“Check with local tv and radio”
(7/12/2021)
Wikipedia:
Oregon Radio Stations
Oregon TV Stations

NOAA – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:
Oregon National Weather Radio Stations
Oregon Weather Alerts – Statewide
or By County or By Zone

PUBLIC ALERTS – Signup to Get Alerts
https://www.publicalerts.org/signup

Clackamas County
http://www.clackamas.us/emergency/ccens.html

Columbia County
https://www.columbia911.com/general/page/columbia-alert-network-can

Linn & Benton County
https://member.everbridge.net/index/453003085613276#/login

Marion County
https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736721950#/login

Salem
https://www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/get-community-alerts.aspx

Multnomah County Call Aging & Disability Helpline for Assistance Registering at 503 988 3646
https://member.everbridge.net/index/453003085612905#/login

Washington County – Tigard residents can register for City Alert (https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/1E28B1D668D7) & Washco;
other residents should register only for the Washco County Alert System
http://www.wccca.com/wcens/

FLASH ALERT messaging system – has news etc. from various sources / agencies / locations
https://www.flashalert.net/

BY OREGON COUNTY / REGION
https://www.flashalert.net/regions/portland-vancouver-salem/?CatName=Counties%2FRegional&Texting=0

METCOM911 ALERTS (Marion County)
https://www.metcom911.com/

DISASTER MAPS including FLOODING, WILDFIRES

FIRE MAPS by USDA USFS & NASA
(U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, U.S. Forest Service & National Aeronautical Space Administration)

FIRMS = Fire Incident Resource Management System for USA & CANADA
https://firms.modaps.eosdis.nasa.gov/usfs/

Formerly USDA USFS Active Fire Mapping
https://fsapps.nwcg.gov/afm/imagery.php

DISASTER MAPS
https://mappingsupport.com/p2/gissurfer-disaster-maps.html

CURRENT WILDLAND FIRES – USA INTERACTIVE MAP
https://mappingsupport.com/p2/gissurfer.php?center=40.749596,-111.533203&zoom=5&basemap=USA_basemap&overlay=VIIRS_24_hours,MODIS_24_hours&txtfile=https://mappingsupport.com/p2/special_maps/disaster/USA_wildland_fire.txt

Other Maps

RED CROSS SITES / REGION MAP FOR OREGON & MAP FOR OREGON & WASHINGTON
https://www.redcross.org/local/oregon/about-us/locations.html

FIRE, WEATHER & AVALANCHE CENTER – MAPS FOR WILDFIRES AND OTHER HAZARDS
https://www.fireweatheravalanche.org/fire/

The Fire, Weather & Avalanche Center’s (FWAC) mission as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is to build user-friendly products for the public—with an emphasis on the backcountry. We are currently building new tools all the time, but could always use support from you to bring these features to life! Our Wildfire Map shows every wildland fire burning around the country. Check to see if there are any wildfires are burning near you.

GIS (Geographic Information Systems)

GIS Server List (links to geographic information such as cooling centers)
https://mappingsupport.com/p/surf_gis/list-federal-state-county-city-GIS-servers.pdf

AIR QUALITY

AirNow.gov reports air quality using the official U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI), a color-coded index designed to communicate whether air quality is healthy or unhealthy for you. When you know the AQI in your area, you can take steps to protect your health. For more information, check out the links below:

AIRNOW.GOV
https://www.airnow.gov

AIRNOW.GOV Report on Portland, Oregon Air Quality
https://www.airnow.gov/?city=Portland&state=OR&country=USA

USA INTERACTIVE AIR QUALITY MAP
https://gispub.epa.gov/airnow/

OREGON AIR QUALITY BY CITY
https://www.airnow.gov/state/?name=oregon

USA INTERACTIVE FIRE & SMOKE MAP
https://fire.airnow.gov/

CALLING 911 with a CELL PHONE

TIP: Calling 911 with a cell phone the smart way – see if you can get better coordinates in case of emergency

PROBLEM:
Coordinates may not be accurate or precise for authorities to find you if you call 911 by cell phone.

POSSIBLE IMPROVEMENT:
There may be some ways to improve this for better coordinates in case of emergency.

Check out this article on the smart way to call 911 with a cell phone
https://findmesar.com/p/pdf/smart-way-call-911-with-cell-phone.pdf

and decide if you want to consider any or all of these to get better coordinates in case of emergency:

1) changing certain settings on your device (see the article above for details),
2) downloading the app FindMeSAR to your device, and/or
3) visit https://findmesar.com in your web browser

Credit: Found this tip on: https://mappingsupport.com/

###

Excerpt(s) from another PeerGalaxy listing:

Facebook Groups for People affected by Wildfire, Smoke, etc. in Oregon plus Resource Links

To join a Facebook Group, login to Facebook on your browser. Click a link to a group (see below). Then, click JOIN. You may be asked to answer up to 3 questions. Usually these questions ask if you agree to group rules (no spam, no harassment, etc.) and if you have direct lived experience, especially if the group is closed / reserved for people with lived experience.

More groups may become available. If you have one to share, please share via email: webmail@peergalaxy.com

FACEBOOK GROUP PAGES
For people affected by recent wildfires in Oregon
1. Oregon Fires 2020 / 2021
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1481912815460351/
2. Wildfire Home Loss Peer Support Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1593879390927628/
3. Rising from the Ashes of the Canyon (2020)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/risefromtheashessantiamcanyon/
4. Bruler Fire 2021
https://www.facebook.com/brulerfire2021/

MORE WILDFIRE RESOURCES

The COVID-19 & Oregon Wildfire Outreach Program (COWOP)

The COVID-19 & Oregon Wildfire Outreach Program (COWOP) empowers communities by connecting people to resources and services such as COVID-19 vaccination info; food, rent, and utility assistance; emotional support; and so much more. Rebuilding lives and livelihoods after a disaster isn’t something anyone needs to do alone.

Serving Statewide

English: Call or text 971- 420-1028

Spanish: Call or text 971- 420-1018

Link: cowop2021.org

WILDFIRE WELLNESS TOOLKIT

https://www.cowop2021.org/en/wellness-toolkit

Excerpt(s):

The purpose of this guide is to support individuals, caregivers, and families impacted by wildfire. We hope to provide resources to improve general wellness and tools for resiliency, knowing that people with greater feelings of wellness are better equipped to support their family and community.

1. Coping with Stress
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue1.pdf

2. Wildfire Resources
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue2.pdf

3. Strength and Resilience
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue3.pdf

4. Values: A Personal Compass
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue4.pdf

5. Caregiver Edition
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue5.pdf

6. Your Personal Wellness Vision
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue6.pdf

WILDFIRE SUPPORT PHONE NUMBERS

Clackamas County Health, Housing & Human Services
1-503-655-8585

ADAPT of Douglas County
1-800-866-9780

Marion County Health & Human Services
1-503-588-5288

Jackson County Health & Human Services
1-541-774-8201

Klamath Basin Behavioral Health
1-541-883-1030

Lane County Health & Human Services
1-541-687-4000

Lincoln County Health & Human Services
1-866-266-0288

Linn County Health Services
1-800-560-5535

WARMLINES / HELPLINES
1. Disaster Distress Helpline offers 24/7 free and confidential disaster crisis counseling to anyone in the United States at 1-800-985-5990

2. Oregon Behavioral Health Support Line offers free confidential support to Oregonians at 1-800-923-HELP (4357)

3. Lines for Life offers 24-hour crisis support for drug addiction, alcohol abuse, and thoughts of suicide to youth, military personnel and their families, and those affected by substance abuse at 1-800-273-8255

4. David Romprey Warmline offers free confidential peer support to Oregonians week based on the framework of Intentional Peer Support.
We focus on building relationships that are mutual, explorative, and conscious of power. We don’t try to “fix” people, rather, we would love to connect with you to listen, share, and learn with you as we both move forward in our life journeys.
Daily, Monday-Sunday, 9am-11pm PST at: 1-800-698-2392

NOTE: During periods of large call volume, hold times can vary; there is usually an option to get a call back without losing your place in line.

OTHER RESOURCE PAGES
In addition, you may want to visit these resource pages

1. State of Oregon Wildfire Resource Website
https://wildfire.oregon.gov

2. US DHS Disaster Assistance
https://www.disasterassistance.gov

3. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management), Oregon Wildfires (EM-3542-OR) page:
https://www.fema.gov/disaster/3542
Event started 9/8/2020, Emergency declared 9/10/2020

4. FEMA Press Release:
State of Oregon and FEMA Working Together to Deliver Coordinated Wildfire Response
https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20200913/state-oregon-and-fema-working-together-deliver-coordinated-wildfire-response

5. American Red Cross Shelters
For temporary sheltering needs, Oregon wildfire survivors can find locations available at www.RedCross.org/shelter

6. Oregon Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (ORVOAD)
For verified disaster relief organizations
https://orvoad.communityos.org/cms/

7. Are you seeing signs of PTSD following the fires? Here’s what you can do from home
https://ktvl.com/news/news-10-first-alert-fire/are-you-seeing-signs-of-ptsd-following-the-fires-heres-what-you-can-do-from-home

8. Emergency Alert System review on its way in Jackson County
https://ktvl.com/station/news-10-first-alert-fire-recovery

9. Free Crisis Counseling
Free crisis counseling is available for Oregon residents affected by historic wildfire season

10. Health organization puts $500,000 toward post-fire recovery
https://mailtribune.com/news/top-stories/health-organization-puts-500000-toward-post-fire-recovery?fbclid=IwAR39JRJb7nfId4Fis2esZG_Jsuqsm_W5x_eI-bv5zXtdy-eRpwf6qp0fqGY

DISCLAIMER: Information is provided solely as a courtesy with guarantees or warranties of any kind whatsoever. Use at your own risk and expense. You are hereby notified and advised to seek counsel from qualified professionals at your own risk and expense.

USE THIS LINK TO OPEN THE VA WELCOME KIT

Print out your VA Welcome Kit

Whether you’re just getting out of the service or you’ve been a civilian for years now, the VA Welcome Kit can help guide you to the benefits and services you’ve earned.

Based on where you are in life, your VA benefits and services can support you in different ways. Keep your welcome kit handy, so you can turn to it throughout your life—like when it’s time to go to school, get a job, buy a house, get health care, retire, or make plans for your care as you age.

 

Explore VA.gov to learn about your benefits

• Disability

  File a claim for disability compensation for conditions related to your military service, and manage your benefits over time.

• Health care

  Apply for VA health care, find out how to access services, and manage your health and benefits online.

• Education and training

  Apply for and manage your GI Bill and other education benefits to help pay for college and training programs.

• Housing assistance

  Find out if you’re eligible for VA home loan programs to help you buy, build, repair, or keep a home. If you have a service-connected disability, see if you qualify for a housing grant to help you live more independently.

• Careers and employment

  Apply for vocational rehabilitation services, get support for your Veteran-owned small business, and access other career resources.

• Life insurance

  Explore VA life insurance options for Veterans, service members, and families. Manage your policy online, file claims for benefits, and access helpful resources.

• Pension

  Apply for monthly payments for wartime Veterans and survivors with limited or no income who meet certain age and disability requirements.

• Burials and memorials

  Get help planning a burial in a VA national cemetery, order a headstone or other memorial item to honor a Veteran’s service, and apply for survivor and dependent benefits.

• Records

  Apply for a printed Veteran ID card, get your VA benefit letters and medical records, and learn how to apply for a discharge upgrade.

• Benefits for spouses, dependents, survivors, and family caregivers

  Learn about benefits for spouses and dependents of a Veteran or service member, including added support if you’re caring for a Veteran with a service-connected disability.

LOCATE SERVICES IN OREGON

Veteran Resource Navigator

The Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA) has a comprehensive online resource guide (VETERAN RESOURCE NAVIGATOR) available to assist veterans in finding the benefits that are most useful to their unique circumstances at this time.

Use the link below for the Veteran Resource Navigator

https://www.oregon.gov/odva/COVID/Pages/default.aspx

Veteran Services by County

Click on the link blow for interactive map  access resources in your county in Oregon.

VETERAN SERVICES BY COUNTY INTERACTIVE MAP

COVID-19 ALERT – Due to COVID-19 many County Offices are limiting in-person services and are providing services by phone. Please call your County Veteran Service Office before going in to confirm how they can best serve you during this time.

COVID19 County Office Status March 26.pdf

Other Resources Available to Veterans and Military Service Members

DD214 & Military Records Request:

https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records

Veteran Resource Navigator site by ODVA:

https://www.oregon.gov/odva/COVID/Pages/default.aspx

(Oregon)Military Help Line:  

Call 888-457-4838

VA Crisis Line 1-800-273-8255:

Press 1.VA Confidential crisis chat at net or text to 838255 

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, National Center for PTSD:

https://www.ptsd.va.gov/

Defining Discharge Status:

https://militarybenefits.info/character-of-discharge/#:~:text=There%20are%206%20types%20of,DD%20214%20must%20have%20a

How to apply for a discharge status upgrade:

https://www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions/

Oregon Supportive Services for Vets & Families (Housing):

https://caporegon.org/what-we-do/ssvf/

Clackamas County VSO’s (Veteran Service Officers):

https://www.clackamas.us/socialservices/veterans.html

Portland VA Clinic that can help with homelessness & medical care:

https://www.portland.va.gov/locations/crrc.asp

Portland VA Mental Health Clinic:

https://www.portland.va.gov/services/mentalhealth.asp

Veterans Crisis Line/ Suicide Prevention:

https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

If you are a veteran or family member with specific questions not addressed here, or if you need other direct assistance,

please contact an ODVA Resource Navigator by calling (503) 373-2085 or toll-free at 1-800-692-9666.

Contact ODVA Headquarters

Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs
700 Summer St NE
Salem, OR 97301

Web: https://www.oregon.gov/odva/Pages/default.aspx

Phone: (800) 692-9666 or (503) 373-2085

Fax: (503) 373-2392

Email:orvetsbenefits@odva.state.or.us

 

 

 

 

Web Resources

Oregon Health Plan – Enrollment Page

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/hsd/ohp/pages/apply.aspx

 

SAMHSA Treatment Locator

https://findtreatment.gov/

VA National Center on PTSD

 PTSD Treatment Decision Aid

 Educational Materials

  Mobile Apps

  Whiteboard Videos

  Consultation Program

 

VA Healthcare – Community Care network

https://www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/providers/Community_Care_Network.asp

 

VA’s Center for Women Veterans (CWV)

https://www.va.gov/womenvet/

Minority Veterans of America

https://www.minorityvets.org/

 

Vet Centers:

Central Oregon Vet Center

Eugene Vet Center

Grants Pass Vet Center

Portland Vet Center

Salem Vet Center

 Community Based Outpatient Clinics:

Bend CBOC

Morrow County VA Telehealth Clinic (Boardman OR)

Brookings VA Clinic

Wallowa County VA Telehealth Clinic (Enterprise OR)

Eugene Health Care Center

Eugene VA Downtown Clinic

Fairview Clinic

Grants Pass West VA CBOC

Hillsboro CBOC

Klamath Falls CBOC

La Grande CBOC

Lincoln City Clinic

North Bend VA Clinic

Community Resource and Referral Center (CRRC)

Salem CBOC

North Coast CBOC

 

Additional Resources By Phone:

Veterans Crisis Line: 800-273-8255, Press 1

Women Veterans Hotline: 855-829-663

Vet Center Call Center: 877-WAR-VETS (927-8387)

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Caregiver Support Line: 855-260-3274

Lines for Life Military Help Line:  Call 1-888-457-4838

Senior Loneliness Line:  Call 503-200-1633

The Trevor Project:  866-488-7386

PEER SUPPORT AND PEER TRAINING

USE THIS LINK TO APPLY

Online BIPOC Veteran Peer Support Specialist Training – April 2022

NAMI Multnomah is pleased to offer this Oregon Health Authority (OHA) approved Peer Support Specialist Training (PSST) for adults in Mental Health recovery. In collaboration with Cultivating a New Life LLC, we will offer the Warriors in Recovery: Forging an Alliance of Peers, Peer Support Specialist Training, 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙛𝙞𝙘 𝙩𝙤 𝙑𝙚𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙈𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙮 𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙈𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙛𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙨 𝘽𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙠, 𝙄𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙜𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙤𝙛 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙧 (𝘽𝙄𝙋𝙊𝘾).

Warriors in Recovery: Forging an Alliance of Peers represents 44 hours of comprehensive training designed to inform and empower individuals wishing to work as peers for veterans within peer-delivered services, assisting individuals past or presently affected by mental health services, mental health system survival, addiction(s), co-occurring disorder(s), and traumatic experience(s), as they re-enter the community utilizing naturally occurring support.

The core elements of this program include wellness coping skills and WRAP training (Wellness Recovery Action Plan), all from a social justice framework with an emphasis on trauma-informed care, cultural humility model and narrative approaches. Through a narrative approach, participants will recognize the power of the stories that they tell themselves, and how to reconstruct their life narrative according to person-centered principles that will assist them in reducing the influence of problems in their lives.

Individuals who complete the 44-hour PSST training are eligible to become Oregon State Certified Peer Support Specialists for adult mental health under the Traditional Health Worker (THW) program. The training consists of 44 online classroom hours and a written exam.

This training is offered at no cost to Veterans and Active/Past Military Service Members who live, work, or volunteer in the state of Oregon.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗰𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗙𝗲𝗯𝗿𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟴𝘁𝗵, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟮.

𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀

1. 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗺𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗮𝘀 𝗮 𝗽𝗲𝗲𝗿 which is defined as a self-identified person currently or formerly receiving mental health services. (𝗣𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗡𝗢𝗧𝗘: If you do not self-identify as a peer, you will not be eligible for this training. If you identify as a family member, please go to OHA’s website to find certified Family Support Specialist Trainings in Oregon.)

2. 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗺𝘂𝘀𝘁:

-be a Veteran or active/past Military Service Member

-identify as Black, Indigenous or a person of color

-be at least 18 years of age

-live, work, and/or volunteer in Oregon

-not be listed on the Medicaid provider exclusion list

-have the ability to attend the entirety of the 44-hour/6 session training ONLINE

𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘿𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙏𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙨:

-Friday, April 8th, 3:00pm-7:00pm

-Saturday, April 9th, 9:00am-5:00pm

-Sunday, April 10th, 9:00am-5:00pm

-Friday, April 22nd, 9:00am-5:00pm

-Saturday, April 23rd, 9:00am-5:00pm

-Sunday, April 24th, 9:00am-5:00pm

*𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙧𝙚 1-𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙝 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙠𝙨 𝙤𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙙𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜*

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗰𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗙𝗲𝗯𝗿𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟴𝘁𝗵, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟮. 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝘆 𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗯𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝟳𝘁𝗵, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟮.

Apply Here: BIPOC Veteran & Military Service Member PSST Application

PUBLICATIONS

Psychosocial Interventions for Older Adults With Serious Mental Illness

The guide provides considerations and strategies for interdisciplinary teams, peer specialists, clinicians, registered nurses, behavioral health organizations, and policymakers in understanding, selecting, and implementing evidence-based interventions that support older adults with serious mental illness.

Publication ID

PEP21-06-05-001

Publication Date

November 2021

Download

Psychosocial Interventions for Older Adults With Serious Mental Illness, 15.96 MB

Download your VA Welcome Kit

You are welcome to share this guide with friends or family members who need help with their benefits too. You can print out copies for yourself and others:

Your VA Welcome Kit in black and white (PDF)

Your VA Welcome Kit in color (PDF)

Download our guides to VA benefits and services

For Veterans

Apply for VA health care (PDF)

Get started with mental health services (PDF)

Get started with health services for women Veterans (PDF)

Understanding community care (PDF)

Accessing urgent care (PDF)

Apply for a disability rating (PDF)

Apply for education benefits (PDF)

Apply for burial in a VA national cemetery and for memorial products (PDF)

Understanding the modernized decision review process (PDF)

Get started with services for Veterans ages 65+ (PDF)

Get started with Veteran state benefits and services (PDF)

Get started with Vet Center services (PDF)

Get started with food and nutrition services (PDF)

Get started with Whole Health services (PDF)

For family members

Get started with caregiver benefits (PDF)

Apply for survivor benefits (PDF)

Opportunities for Engagement

  What:  Warriors in Recovery:  Forging an Alliance of Peers

Host/Coordinating Organization: NAMI Multnomah

Dates:  November 4^th through 6^th and 18^th through 20th

Additional Information:  An OHA-approved Peer Support Specialist Training for adults in mental health recovery. This training is offered at no cost to participants and is open to Veterans across Oregon.  To apply online, please click here.  Applications are due by September 18, 2022

What:  Veteran Volunteer Program – flyer attached

Host/Coordinating Organization:  Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA)

Additional Information:  Join the ODVA in implementing the new veteran volunteer program to ensure very Oregon veteran is connected to the benefits they have earned.  For additional information, or to sign up, please review the attached flyer or reach out to Mark Newell, ODVA Veteran Volunteer Coordinator by calling 503.373.2057, emailing veteranvolunteer@odva.state.or.us, or visiting the ODVA volunteer website by clicking here.

What:  Free Veteran Peer Support – flyer attached

Host/Coordinating Organization:  NAMI Multnomah

Additional Information:  Did you know NAMI Multnomah offers FREE veteran peer support?  Veteran Peer Support Specialists are veterans who use their personal experiences with military culture, mental health challenges, and recovery to support and inspire hope in other veterans.  Check out the attached PDF to learn more how NAMI Multnomah’s Veteran Peer Support Specialists can assist you.  To get started or learn more, contact Dan at 971.303.2671 or dfriedrich@namimultnomah.org

What:  Opportunity to Join NAMI Multnomah Veteran Outreach Team (repeat from 7/19/22)  

Host/Coordinating Organization: NAMI Multnomah

Additional Information:  NAMI Multnomah is looking for veterans and family members interested in volunteering. Our primary need is for folks interested in joining our Veteran Outreach Team. These volunteers will participate in tabling events and/or presentations sharing NAMI resources with communities of Veterans, family members, and those who work with Veterans. These opportunities are primarily in-person, and require proof of vaccination against COVID-19. Please reach out to Alyssa at acarnes@namimultnomah.org if you have any questions or are interested in volunteering.

What:  Oregon Suicide Prevention Conference (repeat from 7/19/22)

Host/Coordinating Organization:  Lines for Life

Dates:  October 11 – 13, 2022, with pre-conference trainings held on October 10, 2022

Additional Information:   OSPC 2022 – Reconnecting to Hope: Growing Responsive Communities – focuses on rebuilding and growing connections between individuals, providers, local and state resources, advocates and prevention leaders. These connections strengthen networks of community support and create systems that can respond with compassion and care to address the unique needs of individuals – lifting Oregonians to reconnect to hope when they are struggling.  Update your calendar and stay tuned for our registration announcement!  Click here to access the OSPC website.

Funding & Scholarship Opportunities

 What:  RFGA #5487 Increasing Access to Veteran and Military Peer Support Specialist Training (repeat from 7/19/22) 

Funder:  Oregon Health Authority (OHA)

Additional Information:  OHA is pleased to announce this solicitation of applications for funding Peer Support Specialist trainings.  The intention is to make in-person Peer Support Specialist trainings more accessible to military veterans living in communities designated as Rural or Frontier by the Oregon Office of Rural Health.  OHA is calling for applications from organizations who are well-positioned to provide services to military veterans and have the capacity to grow the peer-delivered services workforce in their communities.  Applications are due by 10 p.m. Aug. 31, 2022.  Please visit the OHA Veterans and Military Behavioral Health website to access application documents.

What:  Peer Wellness Specialist Training Scholarship Application

Funder/Coordinating Organization:  Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon (MHAAO)

Additional Information:  Scholarships for this training cohort are supported by OHA’s Office of Equity and Inclusion to increase training accessibility across the state.  This scholarship opportunity is meant for Oregon frontier and rural communities.   Completed applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-serve basis.  Once you complete this application, you will receive a confirmation email that it has been submitted.  Please note that the training details and materials will be shared approximately 2-4 weeks prior to the training start date for the cohort for which you have applied.  If you have any specific questions, please reach out to Training Center Manger, Emily Nelson at enelson@mhaoforegon.org.  The role of a Peer Wellness Specialist is to provide peer support, encouragement, and assistance to address physical and mental health needs.  In order to do that, it is important that the Peer Wellness Specialist has a working knowledge of the various health care and wellness resources in their community and how to access these services and resources.  Click here to access the Peer Wellness Specialist Training Scholarship Application.

What:  Integrated Co-Occurring Disorders Start Up Funding

Funder:  Oregon Health Authority (OHA)

Additional Information:  OHA is getting ready to develop contracts for Integrated Co-Occurring Disorders (ICOD) start up funding.  Programs that can and/or want to specialize in working with veterans who experience co-occurring disorders can contact David Corse at David.Corse@dhsoha.state.or.us

RESOURCES AND INFORMATION

LOCATE VETERANS SERVICES IN OREGON

Veteran Services by County

Click on the  map below to access resources in your county.

VETERANS SERVICES IN OREGON BY CATEGORY

Click on the Image Below to find services by category

COVID-19 ALERT – Due to COVID-19, many County Offices are limiting in-person services and are providing services by phone.

Please call your County Veteran Service Office before going in to confirm how they can best serve you during this time.

If you are a veteran or family member with specific questions not addressed here, or if you need other direct assistance,

please contact an ODVA Resource Navigator by calling (503) 373-2085 or toll-free at 1-800-692-9666.

Defining Discharge Status:

https://militarybenefits.info/character-of-discharge/#:~:text=There%20are%206%20types%20of,DD%20214%20must%20have%20a

How to apply for a discharge status upgrade:

https://www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions/

Oregon Supportive Services for Vets & Families (Housing):

https://caporegon.org/what-we-do/ssvf/

Clackamas County VSO’s (Veteran Service Officers):

https://www.clackamas.us/socialservices/veterans.html

Portland VA Clinic that can help with homelessness & medical care:

https://www.portland.va.gov/locations/crrc.asp

Semper Fi & America’s Fund offers a Caregiver Support Program encompassing a variety of activities, education, support tools and resource connections designed to assist the spouses, parents, siblings, extended family members, or close friends who drop everything to care for a catastrophically wounded, critically ill or injured service member. The Caregiver Support Program provides different types of events to suit the busy schedules of our caregivers.

Dual Diagnosis Anonymous

“You protected us, now we support you!”

https://ddainc.org/dda-veterans-page/

DDA was founded by a highly decorated veteran, Corbett Monica. After serving in the Vietnam War, like other veterans, returning to home only find anguish, trauma, and remorse. After suffering from severe PTSD, OCD, survivors guilt, and addictions, Corbett found a way to transcend from destructive means with the inception of Dual Diagnosis Anonymous (DDA) providing hope and recovery through our peer support which is now his legacy.

Culturally responsive DDA’s Veterans meetings are intended to provide a safe venue to be open about depression, post-traumatic stress, alcohol and drug use, abuse, and addiction as well as serve as a resource for navigation of the telehealth system, It will encourage healthy solutions for adapting to the changing times. Specifically. the project will Improve access for Veterans and military service members to dual diagnosis services through the creation of on-line recovery support groups and on-line DDA meetings.

This project will serve Veterans throughout the state and is beginning outreach through Veterans publications, local newspapers, the VA, Veterans websites, list services, and anything else that will help identify Oregonians who can use the services.

More Ways to Connect

Join our Private Online Group

DDA Veterans Resource Group and Chatroom: www.facebook.com/groups/345810496697764

In Person Meetings

Wednesdays 5pm to 7pm

1520 Sherman Ave North Bend, OR 97459

Online Meetings

Tuesdays 12pm-1pm Pacific Time Zone

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84398341923 Meeting ID: 843 9834 1923

By Phone

Give our Central Office a call at (503)-222-6484

COVID-19 Vaccine Access Information

Información de acceso a la vacuna COVID-19

English & Espanol

https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/ORLEG/bulletins/2cd30a8

https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/ORLEG/bulletins/2cd30a8

Weekly Update: Vaccines, Session Progress, Budget Hearing

Dry January 

Information and Resources

What is Dry January?

Dry January is a public initiative that encourages people to give up drinking alcohol for 31 days. An organization called Alcohol Change UK is credited with starting the movement in 2013.

Although similar initiatives have taken place throughout history.

The Finnish government launched a campaign called “Sober January” in 1942 as part of the war effort. Since that time, different people have publicly participated in similar experiments.

But in 2014, Alcohol Change UK made it official by trademarking the term “Dry January” and thus a movement was born.

Let’s talk about why people do it and what to expect.

Dry January Benefits

If you’re deciding whether to participate in Dry January this year, a good place to start is by examining all the benefits of taking an extended break from drinking. Some of the biggest benefits of completing Dry January include:

• Improved digestion
• Better quality sleep
• Weight loss
• Saving money
• Improved focus and mental clarity
• Healthier, glowing skin
• Stronger immune system

There are more benefits, of course, but these are some of the most commonly reported. Let’s dive into a few of these in more detail.

1. You’ll repair your leaky gut.

Alcohol is highly inflammatory and damages the intestinal lining, which leads to increased permeability known as “leaky gut”.

A 2021 study examined the effects of alcohol on the liver and other organs of the body. The results showed that after 3-weeks of abstinence from drinking, subjects saw a complete recovery of gut barrier function.

The intestinal lining isn’t the only part of your digestive system negatively impacted.

Alcohol also does damage to your gut, including disrupting the gut microbiota. After one month, you won’t likely see a full reversal of gut dysbiosis, but it’s long enough to significantly increase the number of healthy bacteria in the gut.

This will improve your physical health, immune system, and mood.

2. You might lose weight.

Alcohol can lead to weight gain for a number of reasons. That’s because alcohol:

• Has a lot of empty calories
• Disrupts your metabolism
• Makes you hungry for high-calorie food
• Spikes your cortisol levels
• Makes you sedentary
• Increases your risk of depression and anxiety

Depending on your consumption habits and drink of choice (I’m looking at you cider and beer), you’ll likely be dropping thousands of empty, liquid calories from your diet which your waistline will surely thank you for.

Aside from the calories gained from the alcohol itself, we are also eliminating whatever fried, greasy foods you like to scarf down after a night of binge drinking.

Will a month of sobriety lead to weight loss?

As long as you don’t replace alcohol with sugary drinks and snacks for 31 days, it’s possible! About 58% of past Dry January participants report losing weight.

3. You’ll sleep better.

Who doesn’t want better sleep? Ever notice how you always feel tired when you wake up the day after drinking? Even if you’ve been asleep for eight or more hours?

It’s because alcohol disrupts the most restorative phase of sleep. Even though alcohol acts as a depressant, causing us to “pass out,” we’re not getting high-quality sleep.

That’s because in the second half of the night, as alcohol leaves our system, our bodies experience rebound arousal, which makes for more fitful sleep and frequent waking up.

In a 2018 University of Sussex study of the effects of participating in Dry January, a whopping 71% of participants reported improved sleep.

4. You’ll save money.

Drinking is expensive. Depending on where you live, you could be paying upwards of $12 or $15 for one cocktail.

Those add up.

I don’t know about you, but in my heaviest drinking days, it was nothing to spend up to 20% of my income just on drinks and cigarettes. Add that to whatever terrible food you’re having delivered at 11 pm and you’ve got a recipe for, “Where the hell did all my money go?”

In that same 2018 study from the University of Sussex, 88% of Dry January participants reported saving money.

5. Your skin might improve.

Alcohol is a diuretic and very inflammatory – two things that are terrible for your skin. Not only does alcohol give your skin a dry, red, puffy appearance but it also speeds up the aging process.

As a result, drinking even moderate amounts of alcohol regularly (the equivalent of one drink per day) can lead to:

• Dilated vessels
• Dull, lackluster complexion
• Rosacea
• Acne
• Loose skin
• Fine lines and wrinkles

In the aforementioned University of Sussex study, 54% of Dry January participants reported better-looking skin.

By taking a month off from drinking, you’ll give your skin a much-needed chance to recuperate. Use this time to get high-quality sleep, stay hydrated, and repair your gut health (which also impacts your skin’s appearance).

6. You’ll beat those colds faster.

A healthy immune system is a terrible thing to waste, which is essentially what we do every time we grab drinks with our friends. Alcohol does your immune system zero favors and since January is the height of cold and flu season in most places, your body will appreciate the boost.

A 2018 study examined the benefits of Dry January, and 65% of participants reported improvement in overall health. Beyond immune system benefits, taking a month-long break from drinking can lead to healthy changes in the gut, liver, and cardiovascular system.

Want to learn more about how alcohol harms your immune system? Check out this video:

7. You’ll feel better.

Alcohol makes depression and anxiety worse. Taking a break can help you improve your mood and stress levels.

Did you know that drinking any amount of alcohol chronically (including one unit of alcohol per night or a few drinks every Friday) disrupts your Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis (HPA)?

This is the body system responsible for maintaining the physiological balance between what you do and don’t perceive as stressful. When you drink any amount of alcohol regularly, you increase the amount of cortisol that is released at baseline when you are not drinking.

Translation?

Alcohol makes you more stressed. Which is ironic considering how many people drink alcohol to relax.

Taking a month-long break from alcohol can help you return your baseline stress levels to normal and become less emotionally reactive.

Plus, no more dealing with the dreaded hangxiety after a night of heavy drinking.

8. You’ll change your relationship with alcohol.

Even if you decide to resume drinking after completing Dry January, there’s a good chance you will drink less in the future.

A follow-up study to the University of Sussex research showed that six months after completing Dry January, participants drank alcohol on fewer days per week and consumed fewer units of alcohol when they did drink.

Additional Dry January Benefits

These are just a few benefits you might experience.

If you’re looking for additional motivation, visit “The Top Benefits of Quitting Alcohol (Even Temporarily)” for a more comprehensive breakdown of why ditching alcohol for a month or more is good for you.

Dry January Tips

Nothing worth doing comes easily. Such is the case with abstaining from alcohol for a month, especially if you’re a regular or semi-regular drinker.

Quitting alcohol for one month is not as simple as saying, “Well I just won’t drink.” There will be internal and external pressures on you to cave before the 31 days are over and you need a plan for managing them.

This is especially true for gray area drinkers and people who have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol.

Because I want you to succeed and reach February 1st with an entire month of sobriety under your belt, I’m supplying you with a comprehensive list of Dry January tips to prepare for the weeks ahead.

But first, a word of caution:

If you abuse alcohol or think you might be an alcoholic, you should consult with a medical doctor before attempting Dry January (or quitting). I’ll include a quiz at the end of this article to help you determine if you’re at risk.

Quitting alcohol unsupervised can be medically dangerous for some people who suffer from alcohol use disorder. You can experience life-threatening withdrawal symptoms like DTs and may require a medical detox.

This is not (and should not) deter you from getting sober and quitting alcohol. But it is to encourage you to take the risks very seriously and reach out to your doctor.

With that, on to our Dry January tips.

1. Know your “why” for completing Dry January.

You will come back to this repeatedly throughout the month. Why are you doing Dry January? Get as granular and specific as possible.

I recommend writing this information down in a journal or making a list and placing it somewhere you can see, like your refrigerator or bathroom mirror.

Here are some ideas to get you started.

“I want to do Dry January to…”

• Feel healthier
• Save money
• Be more productive
• Focus on my mental health
• Focus on my physical health
• Change my relationship with alcohol
• Spend more quality time with my kids and family

Something motivated you to take on this challenge. What was it?

Another approach you can take is to imagine who you will be on February 1st after completing 31 days of sobriety.

Who do you want to be on the other side of this month? How is she or he different from the person reading this right now?

Write it all out and put it somewhere for safekeeping. You can even set little reminders in your phone to ping you throughout the month, to remind you why you’re doing this and motivate you to keep going.

2. Identify your triggers.

The next thing you’ll want to do is take time to identify and list all of your triggers. You will be surprised by how many you have.

There are obvious things like getting an invitation to happy hour or a party where there will be lots of drinking. It’s like getting invited to a bakery when you’re off bread.

But there are subtle triggers that can derail you just as easily.

How triggers work:

Alcohol hijacks the reward system in our brains. We drink, and it gives us an artificial dopamine boost, which our brains like (at least first). This is perceived as a reward. We are hardwired to repeat behaviors that give us rewards.

One of the ways our brain does this is by registering signals and cues in anticipation of those rewards. We walk into a room and smell food cooking, which activates a memory of a delicious meal, and now our mouths are watering, and we can’t think of anything else.

We’re now giddy with anticipation for the meal. We might even do a little happy dance as it’s brought to the table.

Alcohol triggers:

Alcohol works the same way. What are the sounds, smells, environments, and cues that trigger the anticipation of a drink in your life?

Sometimes these are happy or “positive” things like walking into your favorite bar or showing up to a party with friends. Other times, these are negative situations like having a fight with a partner or experiencing a stressful day at work.

In both cases, we feel a strong craving to drink alcohol.

There are quirky triggers, too. Let’s say you have a habit of drinking wine while you cook. The first time you go to cook a meal without a glass of wine will feel a little triggering. Your brain will say, “Wait a minute! This is not how we usually do this.”

Maybe you like to come home after work and sit down in your favorite chair and have a beer. The minute you get home and look at your chair, your brain is going to light up in anticipation of that beer.

This is when alcohol cravings come into play.

3. Make a plan for managing cravings.

Alcohol cravings are going to happen during Dry January.

But you can prepare for them! Once you know your triggers, you can make a plan for dealing with the inevitable craving that will threaten your ability to complete Dry January successfully.

Let’s go back to the “I drink wine when I cook” scenario. If you know you’re going to crave a glass of wine when you cook, there are a few things you can do ahead of time to ensure you don’t cave.

1. Remove wine from your house.
2. Have a replacement drink available.
3. Try cooking something new, so your attention is more focused on the cooking and less on the absence of wine.

This is a good time to experiment with options. Some people find that pouring a non-alcoholic spritzer into a wine glass scratches the itch. Other people have the opposite experience and get triggered even further.

When it comes to anticipating your cravings, you need to experiment with ways to change the habit of drinking.

Figure out what works for you.

A quick explainer on habits:

Dry January is challenging because you’re attacking a behavior on two fronts.

There’s the habitual aspect of your drinking and the compulsion to drink that comes from how alcohol reshapes our brain circuitry and neurochemistry to want to drink more.

The good news is there are things you can proactively do to tackle the habitual side of drinking.

The Oregon Alliance to Prevent Suicide has created a county-based LGBTQ+ Youth Resource List.  ( 14 Pages in PDF Format) 

>>> Check it out here <<<

and share with partners.

The Oregon Alliance to Prevent Suicide

Statewide Suicide Prevention Liaison:
Annette Marcus
Email:amarcus@aocmhp.org
Phone: (503) 399-7201

Suicide Prevention Project Specialist:
Jennifer Fraga
Email: jfraga@aocmhp.org
Phone: (503) 399-7201

MORE OREGON RESCOURCES

OREGON LGBTQ CRISIS LINES

Local, state, national and LGBTQ crisis and support resources.

CRISIS & SUPPORT LINES

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911.

If you or a friend are experiencing suicidal thoughts or are having a crisis and need support, contact Oregon’s Lines for Life: 800-273-8255.

Lines for Life will connect you with 24-hr crisis lines that provide crisis intervention and targeted support for youth, families, older adults, military service members and veterans for mental health crises and support, suicide prevention, help with addiction and recovery and racial equity and support – in partnership with the Oregon Health Authority.

English: 800-273-8255
En español: 888-628-9454
TTY: 800-799-4TTY (4889)

Oregon YouthLine: 877-968-8491.

Oregon YouthLine is a peer crisis line for youth ages 21 and younger. Teens are available to help daily, 4 to 10 p.m. Pacific Time (off-hour calls answered by adult call counselors) or chat online at the YouthLine website.

Text: “teen2teen” to 839863
Chat online: at YouthLine website

24/7 Crisis Text Line: Text 741741 with the message “Home” for support any time, night or day.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – National suicide prevention support, available 24/7. Call: 800-273-8255.

Nacional de Prevención del Suicidio – in Spanish call: 888-628-9454.

LGBTQ CRISIS LINES & ONLINE CHAT

Trevor Lifeline (for LGBTQ youth) 24 hours: 1-866-488-7386.

TrevorChat is available 24/7 days a week, or you can text the word “START” to 678-678, available 24/7.

CHAT SPACE FOR LGBTQ YOUTH

Q Chat Space is an online community chat for LGBTQ youth and teens who are questioning their identity, ages 13-19, facilitated by staff and volunteers from LGBTQ community centers around the country. Provides a place to connect and get access to information and resources. Q Chat Space is a program of CenterLink, the national organization for LGBTQ community centers.

Oregon Child Abuse Hotline – to report child abuse and neglect call: 855-503-SAFE (7233), available 24/7.

PARENT SUPPORT LINES

Reach Out Oregon Warmline – Parent Support Line call: 833-732-2467, Monday – Friday 12-7 pm PST (except for holidays).

A parent / caregiver support service that provides peer support, access to services and referrals for parents and caregivers with a child or youth experiencing emotional, behavioral and mental health challenges. The warmline is a project of Reach Out Oregon and the Oregon Family Support Network.

 

OREGON LGBTQ RESOURCES & SUPPORTS

Selected resources listed on this website focus on providing services and support to reduce mental health risks and promote well-being for LGBTQ young people.

RESOURCES FOR PEOPLE OF COLOR

Asian Pacific Island Pride
Non-profit organization that serves LGBTQ API communities in greater Portland and provides safe and supportive environments to celebrate, educate and bring communities together. apipride@gmail.com

Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA)
A multi-service agency that provides a wide range of services and supports for Native American children, youth, adults and families, including Two-Spirit and LGBTQ support groups and events.

PDX Latinx Pride – Pride events in Portland for the Latinx LGBTQ community, families and allies. Central facebook page provides a space to connect throughout the year – www.facebook.com/PDXlatinxpride

Portland Two-Spirit Society
P2SS is a social, cultural, educational, resource group for the LGBTIQ Native American/Alaskan Natives and their families; to come together and share, connect, reclaim, and restore culture and community.

Sankofa Collective Northwest
Sankofa provides support, education and advocacy for Black families, friends and LGBTQ people through monthly support groups, faith outreach, mini-grants and an annual Portland Black Pride celebration. Sankofa began as the first African American chapter of PFLAG in the U.S. and relaunched as the Sankofa Collective Northwest in 2016.

Utopia PDX – United Territories of Pacific Islanders Alliance Portland
Portland chapter of a nonprofit organization by and for queer and trans Pacific Islanders that provides support, community organizing, political engagement, and cultural stewardship. https://www.facebook.com/utopiaportland

 

YOUTH RESOURCES – STATE ACCESS

SMYRC (Sexual & Gender Minority Youth Resource Center)
SMYRC’s on-site center in Portland provides a safe, supervised, harassment-free space for sexual and gender minority youth ages 13-23 who participate in positive activities such as art, music, community organizing, open mic nights, drag shows, and support groups and receive services including case management, resource referral, counseling, and education. Through Bridge 13, SMYRC provides LGBTQ trainings, educational workshops and consultations for social support staff, health professionals, youth providers, and educators. SMRYC also helps families and youth find local resources in their communities that support LGBTQ youth and families.

Oregon Queer Youth Summit
A conference held by and for queer and trans identified youth and their allies from the state of Oregon. Leadership development and organizing events happens year-round.

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SCHOOL RESOURCES – STATEWIDE

Oregon Safe Schools & Communities Coalition (OSSCC)
A coalition of public and private organizations in Oregon that supports community efforts to reduce youth suicide and risk behaviors for LGBTQ youth. Provides education, data collection, and support services to create safe schools and communities for youth, teachers, and families.

GSA (Genders & Sexualities Alliance) School Clubs
GSA school clubs are available in many Oregon schools to provide support for LGBTQ students and allies and to provide education and events to promote safer schools and communities. Individual GSAs are listed by county and by school. (See National listings for information on GSA Network – a national organization that provides education and training to help students and local GSA clubs in schools to advocate for safer schools and policies to protect LGBTQ students from harassment and victimization.)

GLSEN Oregon
State chapter of the national organization that works to ensure safe schools for all students. GLSEN’s state chapter supports students and educators to adopt LGBTQ-affirming public policy, plan teacher trainings, and hold events for students, educators, parents, and allies.

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FAMILY RESOURCES

Basic Rights Oregon Fierce Families Network
Advocates for public policy that meets the needs of a breadth of the LGBTQ communities. Provides and distributes resources to help families understand their LGBTQ+ children.

Pride Foundation Scholarship Program
Community foundation that funds LGBTQ programs and supports in the Northwest, and funds scholarships for LGBTQ student leaders.

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YOUTH & FAMILY RESOURCES BY COUNTY

BENTON COUNTY

Cheldelin Middle School Pride Club
Cheldelin Middle School sponsored group that provides a confidential, safe space for students to support each other.

Corvallis High School Sexuality And Gender Alliance (SAGA)
A Corvallis High School sponsored GSA group that promotes understanding, acceptance and inclusion of all.

CLACKAMAS COUNTY

Clackamas High School GSA
A Clackamas High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

Milwaukie High School & Milwaukie Academy of the Arts Queer-Straight Alliance
A Milwaukie High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

The Living Room
A safe space that provides peer support and youth drop-in services, resources to promote personal growth and leadership skills, to build relationships and promote positive development of LGBTQ youth and allies.

Youth ERA Clackamas
A youth-focused program of services that includes a drop-in center, crisis services, online support, wrap around services, training and technical assistance for youth-serving groups and agencies.

CLATSOP COUNTY

Astoria High School Rainbow Alliance (GSA)
An Astoria High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

Lower Columbia Q Center
A community center that provides a range of resources and support activities for LGBTQ youth and adults, including youth support and educational activities.

Seaside High School GSA
A Seaside High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

COLUMBIA COUNTY

Scappoose High School FLATH/GSA
A Scappoose High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

COOS COUNTY

PFLAG Coos Bay/South Coast
A Coos Bay/South Coast chapter of PFLAG that provides education, advocacy, and support for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) persons, including ongoing support groups for parents.

Youth ERA Coos
A youth-focused program of services that includes a drop-in center, crisis services, online support, wrap around services, training and technical assistance for youth-serving groups and agencies.

CROOK COUNTY

PFLAG Central Oregon
A Central Oregon chapter of PFLAG that provides education, advocacy, and support for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) persons, including ongoing support groups for parents.

PFLAG Prineville
A Prineville chapter of PFLAG that provides education, advocacy, and support for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) persons, including ongoing support groups for parents.

CURRY COUNTY

Brookings-Harbor High School LGBTQ+ and Straight Alliance Club
A Brookings-Harbor High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

PFLAG Curry County
Curry County chapter of PFLAG that provides education, advocacy, and support for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) persons, including ongoing support groups for parents.

DESCHUTES COUNTY

PFLAG Central Oregon
A Central Oregon chapter of PFLAG that provides education, advocacy, and support for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) persons, including ongoing support groups for parents.

Mountain View High School GSA
A Mountain View High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

DOUGLAS COUNTY

PFLAG Douglas County
A Douglas County chapter of PFLAG that provides education, advocacy, and support for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) persons, including ongoing support groups for parents.

HOOD RIVER COUNTY

Hood River Valley High School GSA
A Hood River Valley High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

JACKSON COUNTY

Lotus Rising Project
A community organization in Southern Oregon that provides activities and services for LGBTQ youth and adults.

Phoenix High School GSA
A Phoenix High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

Youth ERA Medford
A youth-focused program of services that includes a drop-in center, crisis services, online support, wrap around services, training and technical assistance for youth-serving groups and agencies.

JOSEPHINE COUNTY

Grants Pass High School Southern Oregon Pride (GSA)
A Grants Pass High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

PFLAG Grants Pass
A Grants Pass chapter of PFLAG that provides education, advocacy, and support for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) persons, including ongoing support groups for parents.

LANE COUNTY

Churchill High School GSA
A Churchill High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

Sheldon High School GSA
A Sheldon High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

South Eugene High School GSA
A South Eugene High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

Trans*Ponder
A Lane County parent support group for families and caregivers with gender diverse children.

Willamette High School GSA
A Willamette High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion. https://www.facebook.com/Willamette-High-School-GSA-273630792665482

Youth ERA Eugene
A youth-focused program of services that includes a drop-in center, crisis services, online support, wrap around services, training and technical assistance for youth-serving groups and agencies.

LINCOLN COUNTY

Newport High School GSA
A Newport High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

PFLAG Oregon Central Coast
Oregon Central Coast chapter of PFLAG that provides education, advocacy, and support for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) persons, including ongoing support groups for parents.

The Bravery Center
A resource center that provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth, ages 14-24, in Lincoln County.

LINN COUNTY

Intersection Connection via Zoom
A support group for area middle and high school students with regular meetings held on Zoom.

Out-N-About
A support group for high school-aged LGBTQ youth in Linn and Benton with regular meetings via Zoom.

MARION COUNTY

PFLAG Salem
Salem chapter of PFLAG that provides education, advocacy, and support for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) persons, including ongoing support groups for parents.

Rainbow Youth
Support groups for middle and high school students in Marion and Polk Counties. Services include social activities, and individual support.

Youth ERA Salem
A youth-focused program of services that includes a drop-in center, crisis services, online support, wrap around services, training and technical assistance for youth-serving groups and agencies.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY

Asian Pacific Island Pride
Non-profit organization that serves LGBTQ API communities in greater Portland and provides safe and supportive environments to celebrate, educate and bring communities together. apipride@gmail.com

Brave Space, LLC
An organization that provides counseling and support and facilitates access to knowledgeable providers for transgender and genderqueer young people, adults and their families.

Bridging Voices
A chorus for LGBTQ+ and allied youth, ages 13-21 in a safe, accessible place for youth to experience empowerment and unity through music. Bridging Voices is Portland’s first LGBTQ+ and Allied Youth Chorus and is one of the largest choruses of its kind.

Cascade AIDS Project (CAP)
A multi-service agency that provides a range of health, education housing and peer support services for adults. Also provides services for youth. Includes Prism Health that provides gender affirming care.

Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA)
A multi-service agency that provides a wide range of services and supports for Native American children, youth, adults and families, including Two-Spirit and LGBTQ support groups and events.

OHSU Transgender Health Program
Health care services for transgender for gender diverse children, youth and adults at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU). Provides information, referrals and access to resources.

Outside In Transgender Health Services
Health care and social services for youth experiencing homelessness and others. Provides an LGBTQ affirming medical clinic, transgender care, housing assistance, a Queer Zone group and a community drop-in center.

P:ear
Organization that provides a safe space, food, recreation, and mentorship through art, barista, and bike mechanic programs for youth who are experiencing homelessness and unstable housing.

PFLAG Portland
Portland chapter of PFLAG that provides education, advocacy, and support for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) persons, including ongoing support groups for parents.

Portland Two-Spirit Society
P2SS is a social, cultural, educational, resource group for the LGBTIQ Native American/Alaskan Natives and their families; to come together and share, connect, reclaim, and restore culture and community.

Prism Healthcare Clinic
Health care agency that provides a wide range of services for LGBTQ people, including primary care and behavioral health services and counseling, gender-affirming care and STI testing.

Q Center
Portland’s LGBTQ community center. Provides a range of support groups, activities and a directory of local LGBTQ resources and referrals. Support groups are provided for adults related to gender identity, addiction recovery, veterans, seniors and a support group for youth under age 18.

Quest Center for Integrative Health
Health center that provides health and mental health care to youth and adults that includes counseling, LGBTQ health services, HIV services and wellness care.

Sankofa Collective Northwest
Sankofa provides support, education and advocacy for Black families, friends and LGBTQ people through monthly support groups, faith outreach, mini-grants and an annual Portland Black Pride celebration. Sankofa began as the first African American chapter of PFLAG in the U.S. and relaunched as the Sankofa Collective Northwest in 2016.

SMYRC (Sexual & Gender Minority Youth Resource Center)
SMYRC’s on-site center in Portland provides a safe, supervised, harassment-free space for sexual and gender minority youth ages 13-23 who participate in positive activities such as art, music, community organizing, open mic nights, drag shows, and support groups and receive services including case management, resource referral, counseling, and education. Through Bridge 13, SMYRC provides LGBTQ trainings, educational workshops and consultations for social support staff, health professionals, youth providers, and educators.

TransActive Gender Project
A program at Lewis & Clark that provides services and support for transgender and gender diverse children, youth, and families, including support groups for children and youth (ages 4-18), caregivers and families, as well as advocacy, counseling and referrals.

POLK COUNTY

Dallas High School GSA
A Dallas High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion. https://www.facebook.com/Dallas-High-School-GSA-702785019853083

PFLAG Salem
A Salem chapter of PFLAG that provides education, advocacy, and support for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) persons, including ongoing support groups for parents.

Rainbow Youth
Organization that provides safe and welcoming spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth and their friends to find connection, support, and friendship in Marion and Polk Counties. Provides support meetings for middle and high-school aged youth, ages 18 and under.

UMATILLA COUNTY

PFLAG Pendelton
Pendelton chapter of PFLAG that provides education, advocacy, and support for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) persons, including ongoing support groups for parents.

UNION COUNTY

PFLAG Union County
Union County chapter of PFLAG that provides education, advocacy, and support for families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) persons, including ongoing support groups for parents. https://www.facebook.com/PflagUnionCounty

WALLOWA COUNTY

Safe Harbors
Community organization that provides education and outreach with crisis intervention and advocacy services for survivors of domestic, sexual and dating violence for youth and adults.

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Beaverton High School GSA
A Beaverton High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

Hillsboro High School GSA
A Hillsboro High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

Sherwood High School Sexuality & Gender Alliance (SAGA)
A Sherwood High School sponsored student club that provides support for LGBTQ and all students to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

 

 

EVIDENCE-BASED FAMILY GUIDANCE RESOURCES

The evidence-based resources included here were developed by the Family Acceptance Project (FAP) and are rooted in FAP’s groundbreaking research with LGBTQ youth, young adults and families. This research and guidance from the lived experiences of ethnically, racially and religiously diverse families with LGBTQ young people enabled FAP to develop the first evidence-based family support model to prevent health risks and promote well-being for LGBTQ children and youth. FAP continues to produce a series of evidence-based resources to help to decrease health risks and promote well-being for LGBTQ children and youth.

HEALTHY FUTURES POSTER SERIES

Available from FAP in 10 languages, including English, Spanish, Chinese (traditional and simplified), Hindi, Korean, Japanese, Punjabi, Tagalog and Vietnamese. Other versions are in development.

Series of 3 posters that tell the “story” of family accepting and rejecting behaviors and show how these behaviors contribute to serious health risks including suicidal behavior and drug use and how they help protect against risk and promote well-being. Each poster includes common accepting and rejecting behaviors that are expressed across diverse cultures. The posters are available to download free in 4 sizes and include the camera-ready art to take to a commercial printer.

DEVELOPING THE FIELD OF FAMILY SUPPORT FOR LGBTQ CHILDREN & YOUTH

Providing Services & Support

Although it may seem surprising to many people who are concerned about the health and well-being of children and youth, before the Family Acceptance Project was established 20 years ago, no one had studied LGBTQ young people and families. As a result, many mainstream services, including government agencies, have not included services and support for diverse families with LGBTQ children. As the Family Acceptance Project has shown, families can learn to support their LGBTQ children when services are provided in ways that are culturally relevant for them. Culturally appropriate services are needed to help families learn to support their LGBTQ children to reduce serious health risks, strengthen families and support positive development. Use this website to learn about these issues to provide support for LGBTQ children, youth and families – urgently needed now as LGBTQ young people and families are coping with the losses from Covid-19.

FAITH COMMUNITIES AND THE WELL-BEING OF LGBTQ YOUTH

A publication for faith communities and families on supporting LGBTQ youth to prevent mental health risks and to increase support, published by the Group for the Advancement of Psychiatry. GAP is a professional organization of thought leaders in the field of psychiatry who provide guidance on addressing critical emerging mental health issues.

NATIONAL LGBTQ RESOURCES & SUPPORTS

Selected resources listed on this website focus on providing services and support to reduce mental health risks and promote well-being for LGBTQ young people.