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🌟 Welcome to IDD Resources for Oregon!🌟
We’re so glad you’re here.
Whether you’re a self-advocate, a caregiver, a family member, or a community partner, you belong in this space. Navigating life with intellectual and developmental disabilities can come with unique challenges — but you don’t have to walk the journey alone.
Oregon is home to a wide network of support, services, and resources designed to empower you, uplift your voice, and help you thrive. From housing and employment supports to advocacy, education, and inclusive community programs, we’re here to connect you with tools that honor your dignity, celebrate your strengths, and support your goals.
💬 Have questions? Need guidance? Just want someone to listen?
We’re here — and we’re listening.
Welcome to a community that sees you, supports you, and stands with you.
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💛 Hello Empowered Services Family,
Imagine receiving care from someone who already knows your smile, your story, your rhythm — someone who sees you, not just your needs. At Empowered Services, we believe the best care often comes from those who already hold a place in your life and heart.
That’s why we created the BYOC (Bring Your Own Caregiver) program — a unique opportunity to bring a trusted family member, friend, neighbor, or community connection onto your care team as a paid Direct Support Provider (DSP). Whether it’s a favorite aunt, a close friend from church, or a supportive school EA, BYOC empowers you to choose care that feels familiar, natural, and deeply personal.
When you’re cared for by someone who already understands you, everything changes — trust deepens, routines feel safer, and your quality of life flourishes. Compassionate, individualized care isn’t just a value at Empowered Services — it’s our mission.
We’re proud to offer:
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Competitive pay
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Full benefits (health/vision/dental, PTO, and 401k matching) for caregivers working 30+ hours/week
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A simple, flexible application process
Because support should be easy to access — and always rooted in dignity.
📣 Ready to bring someone you trust onto your team?
👉 Have them apply here: BYOC Application
🌱 Know someone seeking care for themselves or a loved one?
👉 Share our intake form: Customer Contact Form
We’re here to walk this journey with you — one step, one story, one meaningful connection at a time.
With care,
The Empowered Services Team
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Embrace Connection and Creativity at Empowered Services’ Summer Events!
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At Empowered Services, we believe in creating moments that bring joy, foster creativity, and build lasting connections. This summer, we invite you to join us for three exciting events designed to celebrate fun, collaboration, and creativity with our wonderful DSPs and customers.
Whether you’re painting a heartfelt gift, bonding over a one-of-a-kind project, or decorating your very own cowboy hat, these events are all about making memories and sharing laughter.
Event Highlights:
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May 16 – Snack and Paint: A fun-filled morning of creativity and bonding, making special gifts for your loved ones.
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June 20 – DSP and Customer Bonding Time: Team up with your customer to create something magical and unique together.
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July 12 – Cowboy Hats: Get your hands on a fun, creative project and decorate your very own cowboy hat to take home!
These events are all about celebrating YOU! Don’t miss out on the chance to connect, create, and have fun. Mark your calendars and join us!
Questions? Contact Connie at 971-414-4112. We can’t wait to see you there! 💛
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Strike Up Fun and Connection with Empowered Services Bowling! 🎳
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Looking for a fun way to connect with others while staying active? Join us at Empowered Services for weekly bowling events! Whether you’re an experienced bowler or just looking for some friendly competition, these events are a great opportunity to bond, have fun, and make lasting memories with your community.
Weekly Bowling Events:
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Wilsonville Bullwinkles – Wednesdays, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. ($5)
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Sherwood Langers – Tuesdays, 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. ($4)
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Salem TheRec – Fridays, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. ($4)
Everyone is welcome! Come for the strikes, stay for the laughs and the community spirit. Join us this week and let the good times roll!
Questions? Contact Connie at (503) 855-3581.
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You deserve more than just a job — you deserve a career where your voice matters, your strengths shine, and your disability is met with dignity, not doubt. For too long, barriers like bias, discrimination, and inaccessible hiring systems have stood in the way. But it doesn’t have to stay that way. Your story, your skills, and your journey belong in the workplace — and we’re here to help you take that next bold step.
🚀 Call to Action
Ready to build a resume that reflects your power, not just your paperwork?
👉 Click here to access the free Resume & Employment Guide for People with Disabilities — packed with legal insights, confidence-boosting tips, and practical tools to help you move forward with clarity and courage.
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If you’ve ever walked into an IEP meeting feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or unsure of how to advocate for your child — you’re not alone. Navigating special education can feel like learning a whole new language. But you don’t have to do it without support. You deserve to feel empowered, informed, and equipped — because your voice matters, and your child’s future is worth every word.
📣 Call to Action
Join us on Tuesday, May 6 in Medford, OR for a powerful evening of learning, connection, and empowerment. This free session will give you the tools and confidence to partner effectively with your school team, understand your rights under IDEA, and prepare for your next IEP meeting with clarity.
👉 Register here and take the next step in advocating for your child’s success!
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Experience the Joy of Inclusion – Passport to Inclusion Event
Are you ready to explore the wonders of the PDX International Airport in a whole new way? Join us on Sunday, June 8th, from 9 AM to 12 PM for the Passport to Inclusion event! This unique opportunity offers a fun and accessible way for families and individuals to discover the airport, complete a scavenger hunt, and win exciting prizes, all while enjoying the peace of free parking.
This event is completely FREE, but registration is required, so don’t miss your chance to be part of something special! Registration closes on June 5, 2025 – be sure to sign up early to secure your spot.
Embrace the adventure and connect with the community in a meaningful way. Click here to learn more or scan the QR code on the flyer.
Let’s make memories, foster inclusivity, and create lasting connections. We can’t wait to see you there! ✈️
Questions? Reach out to the Autism Society of Oregon at 503-636-1676 or LoriB@AutismSocietyOregon.org.
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Molalla Train Park: Go for a Free Miniature Railway Ride
From May through October, take a ride along the miniature railway at Molalla Train Park.
This attraction is run by dedicated volunteers. From skilled engineers operating the trains to friendly faces staffing the concession stand, every aspect of the park exudes warmth and hospitality. Their commitment to providing a memorable experience shines through in each ride and interaction.
At the heart of the park lies its 4,200 feet of track, inviting visitors to embark on a journey through scenic landscapes and nostalgia-filled moments. Rides, lasting 7 to 10 minutes, offer a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation suitable for children and adults.
Along with the train rides, the park has a picnic area, a covered pavilion, and tables surrounded by ponds, shrubs, bridges, trees, and the railway.
The park’s concession stand, nestled within the historic depot, serves up classic Americana snacks and lunch fare. From pepperoni pizza to root beer floats, there’s something for everyone. You’re also welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Molalla Train Park is open on Sundays only from May 4 to October 26, 2025. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The park is also open on additional days during these events:
- Memorial Day: May 25-26
- Founders Day: July 19-20
- Train Fest: August 30-September 1
Molalla Train Park is at 31803 S Shady Dell Rd in Molalla. For more information, visit the train park’s website.
There’s no entrance fee or charge for the train rides. Donations are accepted.
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Clackamas County Resources
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Did you know that your library card gets you FREE admission to a number of local venues and experiences? Libraries in Clackamas County are pleased to offer passes through our Cultural Pass Express program! These passes are for cardholders in good standing over the age of 18.
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Molalla Train Park: Go for a Free Miniature Railway Ride
From May through October, take a ride along the miniature railway at Molalla Train Park.
This attraction is run by dedicated volunteers. From skilled engineers operating the trains to friendly faces staffing the concession stand, every aspect of the park exudes warmth and hospitality. Their commitment to providing a memorable experience shines through in each ride and interaction.
At the heart of the park lies its 4,200 feet of track, inviting visitors to embark on a journey through scenic landscapes and nostalgia-filled moments. Rides, lasting 7 to 10 minutes, offer a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation suitable for children and adults.
Along with the train rides, the park has a picnic area, a covered pavilion, and tables surrounded by ponds, shrubs, bridges, trees, and the railway.
The park’s concession stand, nestled within the historic depot, serves up classic Americana snacks and lunch fare. From pepperoni pizza to root beer floats, there’s something for everyone. You’re also welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Molalla Train Park is open on Sundays only from May 4 to October 26, 2025. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The park is also open on additional days during these events:
- Memorial Day: May 25-26
- Founders Day: July 19-20
- Train Fest: August 30-September 1
Molalla Train Park is at 31803 S Shady Dell Rd in Molalla. For more information, visit the train park’s website.
There’s no entrance fee or charge for the train rides. Donations are accepted.
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Farm Walk About at Frog Pond Farm
Get up close with farm animals and enjoy family-friendly activities during a Farm Walk About at Frog Pond Farm.
Every spring and summer, Frog Pond Farm invites the public to spend the day enjoying life on the 40-acre property.
Bring your family to explore the farmyard by feeding animals and playing at the many outdoor activities, including play structures and yard games.
There is a play structure with five slides and a mini climbing wall. You’ll also have access to inflatable obstacle courses, yard games, cornhole, tunnels, tetherball, mini basketball hoops, barrel riding, backhoe diggers, and inflatable hoppers.
Admission at the entrance is $12 per person ages 2 and up. Reservations are not required. Cups of animal feed are available for purchase.
The farm is open Wednesday-Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for farm visits.
Frog Pond Farm is at 2995 SW Advance Road in Wilsonville. For more information, visit the farm website.
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Free Tours at Hoyt Arboretum
Take a free guided tour of Portland’s Museum of Trees. Hoyt Arboretum has multiple opportunities to learn about the unique trees and plants of the Pacific Northwest.
This beautiful nature oasis features 2,300 species of trees and plants from around the world along 12 miles of trails. Hoyt Arboretum is free to visit, with lots of great cheap events available each week, including preschool walks.
While you’re there, explore Washington Park on the free shuttle, which picks you up at the visitor center. You can make a stop at the park’s best attractions, including one of our city’s free rose gardens.
Here is more information about upcoming free guided tours at Hoyt Arboretum. Meet at the Hoyt Arboretum Visitor Center, 4000 SW Fairview Blvd. For more information, visit Hoyt Arboretum’s website.
Free Tours at Hoyt Arboretum
Explore the walking trails of Hoyt Arboretum with a trained volunteer tour guide during these free tours. Each tour is on Sunday at 11 a.m. and lasts an hour.
Tours are held April through October. Each tour highlights the magnificent flora that makes this urban oasis so special. Collections include magnolias in the spring, conifers in the summer, and maples in the fall.
Local Free Summer Reading Programs
Multnomah County Library
The Multnomah County Library’s summer reading program begins June 16 and runs through August 31. This program is open to all kids, from babies to high school seniors.
Students earn prizes on specific days throughout the summer. All prizes are available while supplies last. Youth can enter a raffle drawing instead of claiming a prize at each level.
Starting on June 16, pick up a summer reading guidebook at your closest Multnomah County Library location or sign up online.
Here’s how to play:
- Mark a space for each day you read, listen to a book or do a summer learning activity.
- After marking 15 spaces, visit the library and choose a prize. Level 1 prizes are available beginning June 30.
- After marking 30 spaces, visit the library and choose a prize. Level 2 prizes are available beginning July 15.
- After marking 45 spaces, visit the library to fill out the finisher form. You can pick up a t-shirt or onesie, and a prize. The first day to claim the finisher prize is July 30.
- Complete 45 days and turn in a completed finisher form to be entered into the Grand Prize drawing. There are drawings for specific age groups.
- The last day to turn in forms to the library is August 31.
Adult Reading Program
There is also an adult summer reading program called Read 4 Life beginning June 16. Complete a gameboard and, starting July 15, turn in your finished gameboard to claim one finisher prize, while supplies last. Prize options include a hat, bag or sticker. Prizes must be claimed by August 31.
Washington County Library
Kids can participate in summer reading programs with the Washington County Library network starting June 1.
The student summer reading program is open to prereaders, early readers and teens. Some of the libraries also open the program to adults. Participants, up to age 18, will get a free book for completing the reading program.
Clackamas County Library
Kids and teens are invited to keep a reading log and win prizes. Summer reading program is hosted by the Gladstone and Oak Lodge Public Libraries.
You can register in person at either library starting June 1. Youth age 0-18 will receive a reading log along with a free book of their choice, a pin button and a $5 library fine voucher just for signing up. The log is completed when they have a total of 30 days of reading.
Once you’re done, bring the reading log to the library from July 1-August 31 to get a prize and be entered into a grand prize drawing.
Fort Vancouver Regional Library and Vancouver Community Library
Kids, teens and adults can register online or at the library for the program taking place June 15-August 15. Participants will need to read or attend a virtual library program for 30 days; make at least one creation; discover something in their world; and try at least one new thing. There are also additional optional challenges announced each week that will get them entered into a special drawing.
Bring the completed activity log to the library to redeem a prize. Kids and teens (ages 0–18) will be entered into the grand prize drawing.
National Summer Reading Programs
Barnes & Noble Summer Reading
Kids in grades 1st to 6th get a free book when they read 8 books and record them in the summer reading journal. Bring the completed journal to a local Barnes & Noble from July 1 through August 31 and your child will pick a free book from the selection listed on the reading journal.
Chuck E. Cheese Reading Rewards
Have your kid fill out the reading reward calendar and bring it to a local Chuck E. Cheese location for 10 free play points. A food purchase is required to redeem this prize. Limit 1 calendar offer per child, per day. The reading reward is valid through December 31, 2025.
You may also like:
Free Cultural Passes at Portland Libraries
Free Bowling for Kids at Alleys in and around Portland
Enjoy $1 Family Flicks at Regal Cinemas’ Summer Movie Express
Oaks Park Roller Rink: Go Skating for $12
Top 5 Multnomah County Library Card Perks You Need to Know About
Free Bowling for Kids at Alleys in and around Portland
Here’s a fun way to beat the heat and spend time with your family. Kids Bowl Free is a program that offers complimentary bowling to kids all summer long.
Kids who are registered for the program get two free games of bowling each day of the summer. Start and end dates vary by bowling alley.
Before participating, you’ll need to register your child. Participating bowling centers set their age limits, usually from age 2 up to age 15 or 17.
The only catch is that shoe rentals are required. Prices will vary depending on your chosen bowling destination. Some bowling alleys also have unlimited shoe rental passes you can buy for the summer.
Ready to get the ball rolling? Find a participating bowling center closest to you from the list of participating locations below. Then click the link to register your kids. I’ve included the start and end dates for each bowling center.
Free Bowling for Kids in and around Portland
Portland
May 1-September 30
Beaverton
May 1-September 30
9300 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy.
May 1-August 31
Hillsboro
Park Lanes Family Entertainment Center
April 1-September 30
Gresham
May 31-August 31
Vancouver
May 1-August 31
Milwaukie
June 16-August 29
Forest Grove
May 5-August 29
For more information and locations outside the Portland metro area, visit Kids Bowl Free’s website. The only catch is that shoe rentals are required. Prices will vary depending on your chosen bowling destination. Some bowling alleys also have unlimited shoe rental passes you can buy for the summer.
Ready to get the ball rolling? Find a participating bowling center closest to you from the list of participating locations below. Then click the link to register your kids. I’ve included the start and end dates for each bowling center.
Free Bowling for Kids in and around Portland
Portland
May 1-September 30
Beaverton
May 1-September 30
9300 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy.
May 1-August 31
Hillsboro
Park Lanes Family Entertainment Center
April 1-September 30
Gresham
May 31-August 31
Vancouver
May 1-August 31
Milwaukie
June 16-August 29
Forest Grove
May 5-August 29
For more information and locations outside the Portland metro area, visit Kids Bowl Free’s website.
Planet Fitness Gives Teens Free Summer Membership
Teens ages 14-19 are eligible for the free pass.
Sign up is available online or in person at a location closest to you. Participants under 18 must have a parent/guardian sign a waiver.
This deal gets your teen unlimited access to their nearest Planet Fitness gym free of charge. Teens can only work out at the Planet Fitness location where they signed up.
Also, free fitness classes for teenagers are available through the Planet Fitness PE@PF program. Teens can view the schedule at their Planet Fitness and sign up for classes. There are also online classes available on the Planet Fitness app.
Parents can also join their teen for a workout with a free day pass.