In 2023, Community Warehouse welcomed five new members to our Board of Directors. Joining a nonprofit Board is no small commitment, and we are so grateful for the thoughtful ways our Board members help steer our growing organization. We are delighted to formally introduce these brave new members to you!
We asked our newest members why they decided to join the Community Warehouse Board and what speaks to them about our mission. Check out their responses below:
Jessica Mathis
Community Warehouse is an organization I have been involved with since I first started working in social services here in Portland. As a housing case manager, coming to the Warehouse is often the highlight of a participant’s experience. It can also be one of the most emotionally challenging, and I’ve always been very impressed by the way the Warehouse operates and the support it provides to organizations, clients, and case managers.
I was invited to a committee a while back, where I was able to offer my feedback as a partner running a housing program. After that was over, I stayed loosely connected with Community Warehouse, but when I transitioned full time into policy work, the new ED, Anna, sought me out for information and advice. It was at that time I was invited to join the Board, and I was very honored to be asked. Participating has been one of my favorite things in recent years.
I think what sticks out to me the most is the utilitarian, but also the intangible good of the Warehouse. Furnishing a home is both a practical need that is currently not being met–and also, having pride in your home and the ability to choose what goes in it (and to have those be appealing and in good condition) goes a long way in improving self esteem and worth. Community Warehouse doesn’t just provide furniture, it provides a service that centers folks in our community who have lost everything, and operates from a place that sees everyone as worthy of a comfortable home.
Lauren Tuckerbaum
After living in Portland for several years, I was looking for an opportunity to support an organization providing meaningful services to neighbors facing and overcoming adversity in our community. Community Warehouse is that organization—supporting families with dignified and critical services as they transition to a new chapter of life. I couldn’t be more excited to be part of that mission as a new member of the Board of Directors.
I’m inspired by Community Warehouse’s commitment to providing comfort and dignity for families while also providing a second life for essential home furnishings. What an incredible win-win for our community and our planet!
Kendal McDonald
As a volunteer at the Tualatin warehouse, I love seeing the mission in action. In my work with the Board and leadership team, I want to continue to enhance the reach of Community Warehouse in the greater Portland community.
The mission is inclusive for the entire community and is carried out by assisting one family at a time. It’s a feeling of everyone working as a team to try to help a family find exactly what they need, and perhaps find a few small items that make them smile—something as simple as mugs or a blanket in their favorite color.
John Holroyd
I decided to join the Community Warehouse Board because I strongly support the mission. Community Warehouse’s strong focus on equity was also a reason I was drawn to join the board. Community Warehouse delivers its services efficiently while promoting sustainability in the community.
The mission especially speaks to me because my deceased wife was on the board of Raphael House, a long-term partner agency of Community Warehouse, which supports domestic violence survivors and their families.
Julie Rocha
I joined the Community Warehouse Board because I wanted to be part of an organization that meets people where they are at and gives them the resources they need to feel safe and secure in a home. I am also excited about the diversity, equity, and inclusion work that Community Warehouse is embarking on.
I was particularly drawn to Community Warehouse’s sustainable donation model: providing gently-used furniture to make a home for those in our community who need it.
We thank our new Board members for their willingness to provide support and guidance to Community Warehouse. Their expertise helps our furniture bank provide quality household items with dignity and care to individuals and families throughout the Portland region. Their passion for the mission and dedication to their community inspires us every day!
We also want to extend gratitude to our Board members who departed in 2023: Ray Anderson, Sharetta Butcher, Terrol Johnson, and Katie McRae. Each made and continues to make an important impact within our valued community.