One of the most inspiring things we see throughout the year is the creativity and generosity of community members who choose to support J Bar J Youth Services in their own unique ways.
From students and scout troops to individuals who simply want to give back, these Do It Yourself fundraisers show how powerful one person’s idea can be when it turns into action.
At a time when nonprofits across the country are facing funding cuts and uncertainty, community-led efforts like these are more important than ever. Each fundraiser – large or small – helps ensure that young people in Central Oregon continue to have access to safe housing, mentorship, and the support they need to build brighter futures.
Here are a few recent examples that made a big impact.
A Student’s Idea Becomes Community Support
A Bend High School student recently organized a fundraiser to support Grandma’s House, raising awareness and resources for young parents working to build stable futures for themselves and their babies. The effort was even featured on Central Oregon Daily News, highlighting the power of youth leadership and compassion in our community.
Cub Scouts Deliver Holiday Cheer
In December, a local Cub Scout troop organized a donation drive for Grandma’s House. Nearly 50 of these youngest scouts visited us to deliver the food and supplies they collected for young families in the program.
Their visit turned into a joyful holiday moment. Staff welcomed the scouts with cocoa and cookies by the fireplace and Christmas tree – and Santa and Mrs. Claus even stopped by to spend time with the group. It was a wonderful reminder of how generosity can bring the community together.
A “Do Good Project” with Heart
We were recently contacted by a Central Oregon Community College student who chose Grandma’s House as the focus of a fundraising project for her communications class.
She shared that she first learned about the program through a friend who once lived at Grandma’s House. Inspired by that connection, she decided to raise awareness and support so more people could learn about the program and the work it does to help young parents build better futures for themselves and their children.
We are incredibly grateful for her thoughtful effort and the heart behind it.
Want to Start Your Own Fundraiser?
DIY fundraisers can take many forms – school projects, community events, donation drives, birthdays, or creative campaigns among friends and family. What they all share is a simple idea: one person choosing to make a difference.
If you have an idea for a fundraiser or would like to support J Bar J Youth Services in your own way, we would love to hear from you. We may also be able to talk with your group about any or all of the programs you want to support.
Together, our community continues to show that small acts of generosity can create lasting impact for youth and families.