What Are Our Members Up To?
Salma Preppernau
Our 19-20 AmeriCorps Members are still ‘getting things done for America!’
Since the start of this national emergency, more than 8,500 AmeriCorps members and Senior Corps volunteers have served in direct response to COVID-19. Their stories of service demonstrate their commitment to “get things done” for the communities that are counting on them. Our Confluence AmeriCorps Members continue to serve our communities in impactful ways and we’re grateful for their perseverance in the face of this challenge!
While our members are teleserving, we’ve been able to meet (remotely) as a team a number of times and we’re starting to wrap up the service year with Final Site Visits and look towards (virtual) Commencement.
RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS
May Team Meeting: History of the Willamette & Columbia Rivers - Facilitated by Ali McGarigal & Allena Vestal
Our facilitators shared some history about the Willamette and Columbia Rivers and the Indigenous peoples of this area with a focus on the Confederated Tribes of the Grande Ronde. We were joined by Ed Edmo (Shoshone-Bannock), a highly respected local poet, playwright, performer, traditional storyteller, tour guide, and lecturer on PNW tribal culture. It was a tremendous joy to have Ed and we are grateful for his stories of Celilo Falls and for making all of us smile! Ali & Allena also put together a thorough resource list that Confluence is lucky to have and be able to share with future members. Thank you Ali, Allena, & Ed Edmo!
Sean Brosnihan, serving w/ Forth Mobility: "Pearl District Restaurant Serves More than 6,000 Free or Reduced Cost Meals During COVID-19 Outbreak"
Drew Donahue, serving w/ Johnson Creek Watershed Council: "Social Distancing with a Side of Garlic Mustard"
Kathryn Marshall, serving w/ Trash for Peace: Personal Protective Masks
In the face of adversity, we will persevere. Stay tuned for more Confluence news & updates!