Speaker

Tommy Reeder and Zach Morse, Parks Lead Maintenance Specialists and Certified Playground Safety Inspectors for the City of Wilsonville, will share insights on Wilsonville's inclusive playgrounds and how Universal Design is shaping accessible spaces for children of all abilities. They will discuss the benefits and challenges of designing inclusive play areas and highlight key locations like Boones Ferry Park, Murase Plaza, and the nature play area at Memorial Park, which feature accessible surfaces, companion swings, and natural play opportunities.

Allison Brinkhost, Love Jonson, and Charlie Collier from PDX Housing Solidarity Project will discuss their work redistributing wealth to address racialized disparities in homeownership. Their presentation will explore Portland’s history of exclusionary housing policies and highlight real stories of how their initiative has helped Black and Indigenous first-time homebuyers. Since 2021, their efforts have leveraged over $1.7 million, supporting 18 homebuyers and gaining recognition from OPB, Trusthout, and The Philadelphia Citizen’s “Ideas We Should Steal” list.

Tess Paterson, Volunteer Coordinator for JoyRx | Children’s Cancer Association, is dedicated to engaging and supporting volunteers as they bring comfort and joy to children facing serious illness. In her presentation, "The Transformative Impact of JoyRx," Tess will highlight JoyRx’s mission, showcase its healing programs, and share an inspiring volunteer story that demonstrates the far-reaching impact of the organization, touching lives beyond the children served.

Bruce Erik Bennett of Aurora Aircraft LLC will explore the Aurora Airport’s rich history, current operations, and future potential. With decades of experience as a pilot and deep family ties to the airport since 1968, Bruce will share unique insights and address common misconceptions, offering a virtual "tour" through photographs and diagrams.

Historian and author Don Bourgeois shares the haunting story of Oregonian Norm Harrison, a World War II veteran who kept his most painful memories locked away for decades. Haunted by a recurring nightmare of an unblinking Army officer, he feared revealing his past would change how his wife, Italia, saw him. Only after her passing did he finally share his story, revealing the deep psychological scars he carried. Originally published in the Portland Tribune, his account is now being considered for a film or limited series.

Learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of a mental health crisis, separate truths from myths, and discover practical coping skills and tools. Gary Marschke, Outreach & Development Manager for NAMI Clackamas, will share insights on mental health challenges, available resources, and ways to care for your own well-being. NAMI Clackamas, a grassroots non-profit, provides free mental health education, support, and advocacy through programs led by individuals with lived experience, improving the quality of life for everyone in the community.

Wilsonville Police Chief Rob Wurpes will provide an overview of the Wilsonville Police Department, including its design, staffing, and key data. This session offers insight into how the department operates and serves the community, with extra time dedicated to answering questions. The Wilsonville Police Department, in partnership with the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, works to preserve life, uphold the law, and promote safety with a team of patrol officers, detectives, traffic officers, and specialized staff.