They established a non-profit in 1986 in hopes of raising funds for a formal shelter, and the vision of Siuslaw Area Women’s Center was born. Working tirelessly over many years, by 1995 they had established some grant funding; were able to provide temporary motel housing for victims; began providing clothing, transportation, and legal aid to those in need; eventually obtained office space and hired formal staff; and created a 24/7 Crisis Line. It was here, in 1995 with a goal of helping survivors to get out and stay out, they were told that to continue to receive grants for housing and employment, they needed to serve men as well. It was also here that they discovered that domestic violence and other forms of abuse know no gender, age, or economic boundaries. And so the vision expanded to serve and support both male and female victims. All this inspired by a movie that moved the hearts of some incredibly passionate, local Florence women. Their dedication will never be forgotten, and their legacy lives on

Other speakers included past board members and directors giving accounts of events in the long history of Siuslaw Outreach Service and the thousands they have helped gain safety and stability. The patrons also got to hear from former clients share how staff and the agency made a lifelong impact and thanks the donors for supporting them.

Current Executive, Bob Teter, also spoke about the restricting of the agency and creation of the Siuslaw Area Resource Center and its unique partnership with the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians. He further talked about the center bringing added mental health services to the community.

The evening concluded with a challenge to those in the room. The Board of Directors unveiled their fundraising initiative, “Project 40 for 40 Campaign. Those in attendance were challenged to help find 40 brand new donors to the organization to raise $40,000 over the next nine months. It was also shared that if the campaign was successful, an anonymous donor will double that amount.

The next day, an open house celebration sponsored by BJ’s Ice Cream was held. Nearly 100 community members came and toured the facility and got to sample BJ’s Ice Cream.

Siuslaw Outreach Services staff, volunteers and Board of Directors thank those who have made 40 years of serving the community possible.

Time to “Chip In”

The 16th annual Siuslaw Open presented by PeaceHealth, Oregon Pacific Bank, Abel Insurance and Three Rivers Casino & Hotel will be held Saturday, May 9th at beautiful Ocean Dunes Golf Links. The Rotary Club Putting Contest for a chance to win $5K is back once again. New last year was the Hoaglund Properties Chipping Contest featuring a giant dart board is back. Also back is Hyak providing fresh bbq hot dogs. The signature Poker Run is also back. New to this year, The $10K Hole In One Contest. The winner will not only win $10K for themselves but a match $10K will be donated to SOS in the winner’s honor.

Teams of four will compete and raise money to support direct services at Siuslaw Outreach Services. Those who wish to play in this fun tournament or sponsor this event are encouraged to contact Mary at 541-204-1639 or stop by SOS or Ocean Dunes Golf Link…or scan the QR code below to register.

PAST EVENTS

Chipping In For A Great Cause 2024

This year’s event raised a net of over $14,000. This success of this event will help us help many families who are struggling.” Knowing those challenges, the golf committee of Justin Young, Alexis Greenlee, Lori Gates, Mary Hamilton, Nick Johnson, Rick Yecny, DeAnn Hawkins and SOS Executive Director Bob Teter along with SOS Board of Directors and staff as well as the many event volunteers, we want to thank the following businesses and individuals for making the event so successful:

Oregon Pacific Bank, Peace Health, Abel Insurance, Florence Elks Lodge 1858, Three Rivers Casino Resort, Johnston Motors, HYAK, Hanawalt/Ferguson-Attorneys At Law, Florence Rotary Club, 1285 Resto Bar, NOSH Eatery, Dutch Bros, River House Inn, Old Town Inn, Sign Stop, Band of Brothers, Masonic Lodge, American Legion, KCST Radio, Copeland Lumber, Florence Motor Sports, Shervin’s Tire & Auto, Lighthouse Electric, Grocery Outlet, Hop Valley Brewery, Safeway, Florence Glass, Lofy Construction, Laurel Bay Gardens, Yecny Family, SOS Board of Directors, Justin Young & John Barnette, Pacific Office Automation, Frazer Photography, Eugene Emeralds, Justin Austen, Gary Kadel, Nik Remer, Jason & DeAnn Hawkins,  Bob Teter, and Florence Golf Links.  The success of this event could not happen without these community partners.