Imagine a future where every family in our community has the opportunity to shape their legacy, where the values that matter most endure for generations to come. Unfortunately, many families are unprepared for this responsibility; only 35% have a will, and even fewer include charitable intentions.  

A united consortium of passionate nonprofits including Big River Community Land Trust, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Columbia Gorge Food Bank, Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association, Gorge Community Foundation, Great River Oregon, Mid-Columbia Community Action Council (MCCAC),The Next Door, Inc. (TNDI), and Washington Gorge Action Programs (WAGAP) believe in the transformative power of community, connection, and the legacies we create together, and seeks to shift this narrative one family at a time. 

We invite you to join us for the Community Legacy Initiative on Thursday, March 19th from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at the Fort Dalles Readiness Center. This event is free and aims to help make estate planning more accessible to everyone, educate the community about the profound importance of preparing your will or trust, connect individuals and families with experts and empowering tools, and, when possible, encourage giving to organizations committed to bettering our community. 

During the event, you will be able to: 

• Meet experts working in financial planning and investing, accounting, law and more 

• Receive free resources and handouts to help you plan your financial future 

• Learn more about adding charitable gifts into your estate planning 

Hear from our panel of experts on the benefits and how-tos of estate planning including: 

• Bob Kenyon, Community Philanthropist and Keynote Speaker 

• Nathan Reagan, CPA, Partner at Sorren in The Dalles, OR 

• Samantha Pahlow, Executive VP of Portfolio & Wealth Management at Ferguson Wellman in Portland, OR 

• Bradley V. Timmons, Attorney at Law with Timmons Law PC in The Dalles, OR 

• Becky Brun, Event Moderator and Owner of Pitchfork Communications in Hood River, OR 

After the event, you will receive information about local nonprofits who accept legacy giving contributions so you can connect directly with an organization that interests you. There will also be experts on site who can provide resources around end-of-life care, including advance directive planning. 

Spots are limited and pre-registration is encouraged. Light snacks, catered by Casa El Mirador, will be provided. You can RSVP here: https://bit.ly/legacy-initiative-2026  

This isn’t just about financial planning; it’s about the dreams, stories, and love we pass on. What will your legacy be?