RECORD-SETTING SUPPORT, HEARTFELT STORIES AT PROJECT LEMONADE'S 2016 LUNCHEON

Stormy weather on October 14 didn’t stop a record number of guests from attending Project Lemonade’s third annual luncheon at the Multnomah Athletic Club and contributing in record amounts. Over 350 supporters helped us raise nearly $109,000, thanks in part to a generous match from the Ray Hickey Foundation.

KGW television anchor Tracy Barry hosted for the third year in a row, providing her trademark blend of levity and directness. Keynote speaker Chris Boucher, a 6’10” University of Oregon basketball standout and NBA hopeful, described overcoming adversity, growing up in a struggling family, the importance of good decisions in the face of peer pressure, and the value of sharing his story: “Even if it helps only one person, it’s worth it.”

A panel of three Project Lemonade interns led by founder Rhonda Meadows discussed working in the store this summer in our inaugural paid internship program for foster teens. Those interns and other foster youth we’ve served are featured in two videos created by Quarter4 Media, which premiered at the luncheon. You can view the videos on our website.

Finally, former foster youth Anthony Preston shared an incredibly personal story of hardship and loss, one which articulated how the support Project Lemonade provides foster youth creates an unmeasurable but invaluable positive ripple effect.

We cannot thank enough our generous sponsors and guests, our luncheon’s speakers, our loyal volunteers and all our new friends who support our work and celebrated with us.