2025 Annual Fundraising Event on October 15th
Gathering for Change is more than a fundraiser. It’s a movement to end homelessness, powered by our community.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for an evening of powerful storytelling, shared momentum, and great conversation. Together, we’re proving that homelessness is solvable, and that everyone in Clark County deserves a safe, stable place to call home.
Event Highlights
This year’s Gathering for Change highlighted real progress, honoring the work of our partners and celebrated the community that makes it all possible.
A very special thanks to our Leading with Empathy panelists, Jesse Beason, Ed Johnson, and Esra Khalil who explored how compassion drives lasting change in advocacy, housing, and funding.
Meet the Voices of Change
Guest Speaker: Jesse Beason
Jesse is the President and CEO of Northwest Health Foundation, where he leads efforts to advance health equity across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
He previously served as Vice President of Strategy & Public Affairs at the Foundation and has held leadership roles in housing with Proud Ground, in public affairs at Metro, and in civic engagement through the Office of Commissioner Sam Adams. Jesse is a graduate of Lewis & Clark College and has been recognized as a Portland Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree and a Portland Monthly Rising Star.
Guest Speaker: Ed Johnson
Ed Johnson is the Director of Litigation at the Oregon Law Center, and has served as a legal aid attorney in Oregon since 1996.
His work focuses on fair housing, subsidized housing, housing preservation, and homeless rights litigation, helping to protect the rights of vulnerable individuals and families across the state.
Ed is a 1993 graduate of Columbia Law School.
Conversation Moderator: Esra Khalil
Esra Khalil is the Senior Program Officer at the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington, where she has worked since 2018. Prior to that, she spent more than 15 years in the nonprofit sector. During that time, she worked at the intersection of development, program and policy, with direct experience in culturally specific service delivery, program development, civic engagement and grant writing. At the Community Foundation, Esra supports strategic grantmaking investments, aligning resources with community-led solutions that create economic mobility and pathways for prosperity. With a deep commitment to trust-based philanthropy, her approach reflects a belief that lasting change happens when philanthropy is grounded in equity, shared learning and authentic collaboration.
Fundraising Host: Kelly Russell
Kelly Russell is back by popular demand! As the fundraising host from Artisan Auctions, Kelly brings her signature energy and deep appreciation for Clark County’s generous spirit to the stage.
Experience powerful stories of resilience, hear expert insights, and take action to end homelessness.
Kiggins Theatre
The historic Kiggins Theatre has been a staple in our community since 1936. Today, the iconic marquee and preserved Art Deco design instantly take us back to a bygone era.
The Kiggins Theatre is a jewel of Clark County and is a community gathering spot for films, local entertainment, lectures, performances, and our 2024 Gathering for Change event.
Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor!
Platinum Sponsor:
Gold Sponsors:
Silver Sponsors:
Live Stream Viewers Dinner Certificate provided by:
Dessert Support provided by:
Conversation Sponsor:
Community Ticket Sponsor:
Bid Card Sponsor:
Join us in bringing this amazing event to the community! Sponsorship opportunities are available.
Maggie Bernetich at mbernetich@councilforthehomeless.org or (360) 916-6008.
Your presence matters. Your voice matters. Your action matters.
Silver Sponsors:
