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Welcome to Our Empowered Community! 🍁
Happy November, everyone! As we step into this season of gratitude and togetherness, we at Empowered Services are thrilled to share our latest updates, resources, and events tailored just for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re looking for support, connection, or simply ways to enjoy the season, we’ve gathered a wonderful array of offerings this month.
November brings an opportunity to reflect on what we are thankful for, and at the heart of it, we are grateful for YOU—our vibrant, resilient, and growing community. We hope these resources help you feel supported, connected, and prepared for whatever comes your way. From mental health services and food assistance to community events and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone.
Thank you for being part of our Empowered family. We are here to walk alongside you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need additional support, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s make this November a month filled with warmth, kindness, and connection.
Wishing you a joyful and resourceful month ahead!
With gratitude,
The Empowered Services Team 🌟
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November Community Resources and Updates – Washington County
As we head into the winter season, Empowered Services is here to support you with a variety of resources and updates tailored for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families in Oregon. We are committed to connecting our community with essential services and opportunities.
1. Election Day Reminders
- November 5 is Election Day. Don’t forget to vote! You have until 8 p.m. to return your ballot.
- Ballots can be submitted either by mail (postmarked by November 5) or at an official ballot drop box. Visit WashCoVotes.org for drop box locations.
- Check the first unofficial results online shortly after 8 p.m. on the Secretary of State’s website.
2. Winter Storm Preparedness Workshop
- Prepare for winter with our FREE virtual workshop by Familias en Acción.
- Topics include:
- Understanding winter storm impacts on health and safety.
- Creating home emergency plans and connecting to alert systems.
- The effects of climate change on extreme weather.
- Dates:
- Part 1: Monday, November 18 (11 a.m. – 1 p.m.)
- Part 2: Wednesday, November 20 (11 a.m. – 1 p.m.)
- Registration: Open to all community members. Participants receive a free emergency preparedness kit delivered to their home.
3. School Supply Donations
- Washington County is collecting gently used school, art, and office supplies through November 9. Donations will help educators in the School Supply Reuse Room.
- Drop-off Locations:
- Miller Education Center (215 SE 6th Ave, Hillsboro)
- Hillsboro Downtown Hive (233 SE Washington St, Hillsboro)
- Accepted items include school supplies but exclude liquids like paints and glues unless taken directly to a drop-off location.
4. Native American Heritage Month
- November is Native American Heritage Month. Join us in celebrating the stories, traditions, and languages of Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities.
- Upcoming Events:
- NAYA Culture Night: Wednesday, November 6 at NAYA Family Center, Portland. Enjoy activities like crafting, drumming, and storytelling.
- Frybread Fest: Saturday, November 9 at Director’s Park, Portland. Features include storytelling, drumming, and free frybread (while supplies last).
5. Tigard One Day Event
- Project Homeless Connect is hosting a one-day event offering services for individuals and families facing homelessness.
- Services Provided:
- Dental care, eyeglasses, haircuts, social service applications, mental health counseling, and more.
- Date: Friday, November 8 (9 a.m. – 3 p.m.)
- Location: NW Christian Church, Tigard, OR. Accessible via bus routes.
6. Free Diapers for Families
- PDX Diaper Bank is distributing free diapers at the Tigard Free Food Market.
- Date: Every 4th Monday of the month.
- Location: ODHS Self-Sufficiency Office (10777 SW Cascade Ave).
- Time: 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
7. Small Business Support
- The Washington County Economic Development Resource Webpage offers tools and resources for small businesses, including access to capital, legal services, and networking opportunities.
- Visit the Small Business Resource Directory for more details.
8. Food Assistance
- The Oregon Food Bank provides a Food Finder tool to help locate food resources and support for families in need. Access it here.
Empowered Services remains dedicated to assisting our community members. For more information or to get involved, please contact us at info@empowered-services.org.
Stay connected, stay informed, and let’s continue to support one another this season!
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November Community Resources and Updates – Lane County
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🍁 Fall Into Fun at Hilyard Community Center! 🍁
Join us for a delightful afternoon filled with fall festivities! We’re hosting a FREE event for the whole family, packed with exciting activities:
- Pumpkin Painting: Get creative and decorate your own pumpkin masterpiece!
- Ornament Making: Craft your own unique fall-themed ornaments.
- Fall Photos: Capture the season’s spirit with fun photo opportunities.
- Snacks & Refreshments: Enjoy delicious treats and beverages.
🗓 Date: November 8
⏰ Time: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 Location: Hilyard Community Center – Main Hall
Address: 2580 Hilyard St., Eugene, OR 97405
Don’t miss out on this fun-filled, family-friendly event! RSVP today using the QR code on the flyer or simply show up for an unforgettable fall experience.
Bring your friends and family, and let’s celebrate the season together! 🍂🎃
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November Resources and Community Updates for Clackamas County
Empowered Services is dedicated to connecting our community with vital resources and support. For November 2024, we’ve compiled a list of helpful services and events available in Clackamas County for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families.
1. Important Dates to Remember
- Veterans Day: Monday, November 11 (Clackamas County offices will be closed in observance).
- Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 28 (County offices will also be closed).
2. Support for Voting
If you or your loved ones need assistance with voting, Disability Rights Oregon provides support to ensure everyone can participate in the electoral process. Learn more here.
3. Autism Society of Oregon Events
The Autism Society of Oregon has a calendar filled with workshops and social events throughout November. These events are great opportunities for families and individuals to connect with others in the autism community. Check out the full calendar here.
4. Community Resources
- Food Assistance:
- North Clackamas DHS Free Food Market: Open on the 2nd Thursday of the month (9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.). No income verification required. Address: 16440 SE 82nd Drive, Clackamas, OR. Contact: (503) 282-0555.
- West Linn Food Pantry: Providing emergency food services to the West Linn area. Learn more here.
- For additional food resources, visit the Oregon Food Bank.
- Utility Assistance:
- Clackamas County offers energy assistance programs to help households manage utility costs. Learn more here.
5. Mental Health and Crisis Support
- Urgent Mental Health Walk-In Center: Call (503) 655-8585 for immediate support.
- Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741 for 24/7 confidential help.
- Trans Lifeline’s Peer Support Hotline: (877) 565-8860 – for peer support by trans individuals.
- The Trevor Project: Support for LGBTQ+ youth. Call 1-866-488-7386.
For more resources, including the Clackamas County Crisis Line and suicide prevention services, visit the Behavioral Health Resources page here.
6. Energy Trust of Oregon – In-Home Energy Services
The Energy Trust of Oregon provides support to help reduce energy costs for qualifying households. This program offers services like insulation, ductless heat pumps, and water heaters. Eligibility is based on utility service and income. For more details, contact Charles Carter at charles.carter@clearesult.com or call (503) 908-4016.
7. Community Events and Activities
- Love One Community Events: Providing clean laundry, meals, and personal care items. Monthly events are held at various laundromat locations across Clackamas County, including:
- Milwaukie South: QED Laundry, 1st Tuesday & 3rd Wednesday of the month.
- Oregon City: Brax Laundry, 2nd Tuesday & 4th Wednesday of the month.
- Sandy: Ceders Laundromat, every Thursday.
For a full schedule and more information, contact Nash Hascall at nash@loveonecommunity.org.
8. Special Events in November
- Nature Journaling at Tryon Creek State Park: Learn to observe and document nature through art. This event is scheduled for Friday, November 8 (3:00 – 4:30 p.m.). Open to all ages. Admission: $10-20 sliding scale. Register here.
- Día de los Muertos Celebration: Join us at the Estacada Public Library on Saturday, November 9 (1 – 3 p.m.) for face painting, crafts, and sugar skull decorating.
- Free Fishing Weekend: Enjoy fishing without a license on November 29-30, courtesy of the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife. Details here.
9. Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA)
SHIBA provides free counseling for Medicare beneficiaries. Open enrollment runs until December 7. In-person sessions are available at the Estacada Public Library. For more information, contact Kristina John Baptiste at kjohnbaptiste@clackamas.us.
Yamhill County
Tasty Tuesdays at Wellspent Market
Dates: Every Tuesday Starting November 5, 2024
Location: Wellspent Market, McMinnville
Description: Taste buds, rejoice! Tasty Tuesdays are all about enjoying seasonal flavors, local ingredients, and a community that loves good food. Come hungry and leave happy.
Link: https://
First Friday Art Walk in Newberg
Dates: November 1, 2024
Location: Downtown Newberg
Description: First Fridays are for art! Explore Newberg’s creative scene, meet local artists, and enjoy a charming stroll through downtown during the First Friday Art Walk.
Link: https://www.
2024 Fall Bazaar & Craft Fair
Dates: November 9, 2024
Location: Chehalem Cultural Center, Newberg
Description: Craft your way into the holiday spirit! The Fall Bazaar & Craft Fair brings handmade treasures, cozy vibes, and the perfect opportunity to start your holiday shopping early.
Link: https://www.cprdnewberg.
Marion County
Footloose the Musical
Dates: Now, Through November 2, 2024
Location: Historic Elsinore Theatre, Salem
Description: Time to cut loose! Footloose the Musical is hitting the stage with high energy and iconic tunes that will have you dancing in your seat. Don’t miss this toe-tapping performance!
Link: https://www.travelsalem.
Silverton Christmas Market
Dates: November 21, 2024
Location: Silverton
Description: Deck the halls and your shopping bags! The Silverton Christmas Market is a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, festive treats, and holiday cheer for the whole family.
Link: https://www.travelsalem.
“The Thanksgiving Play”
Dates: Various Dates & Times Throughout November, 2024
Location: Keizer Cultural Center
Description: A comedic feast! The Thanksgiving Play dishes up laughs as it takes a hilarious look at well-meaning but misguided attempts at cultural sensitivity. A must-see before the holiday feast!
Link: https://cm.
Multnomah Events
Portland Book Festival
Dates: November
Location: Portland Art Museum & Neighboring Venues
Description: Bookmark this! Dive into Portland’s vibrant literary scene at the Portland Book Festival, where authors, books, and creativity come together for a page-turning celebration.
Link: https://www.
Holiday Market at Oregon Convention Center
Dates: November 15-December 17, 2024
Location: Oregon Convention Center
Description: ‘Tis the season to shop! The Holiday Market is back with local artisans, unique gifts, and festive cheer. Get your holiday shopping done in style—without the last-minute scramble!
Link: https://www.
Hillsboro First Tuesday Art Walk
Dates: November First Tuesday’s
Location: Downtown Hillsboro
Description: Walk, talk, and admire! Hillsboro’s First Tuesday Art Walk brings the streets to life with local art, live music, and creative vibes. A perfect evening out for the art lover in you!
Link: https://www.hillsboro-
Other Areas
Salem Public Market
Dates: Year-round (Saturdays Only)
Location: 1240 Rural Ave SE, Salem, OR
Description: Visit Oregon’s oldest farmers market, where you can find local produce, handmade goods, and delicious treats every Saturday. Support local vendors and enjoy a variety of fresh, seasonal products.
Link: https://www.
Kid Quest
Dates: November
Location: Lake Oswego, OR
Description: Calling all adventurers! Bring your little ones for a day of discovery and fun at Kid Quest in Lake Oswego. This free event is perfect for families looking to enjoy an exciting day of games, activities, and exploration designed just for kids. Don’t miss out on the adventure!
Link: https://www.eventbrite.
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