The Next Door Names Christy King Volunteer of the Year
Christy King and her mentee, Damian, at the Bonneville Fish Hatchery.
In honor of National Volunteer Month, a time to celebrate those who generously dedicate themselves to making a difference in their communities, The Next Door Inc. (TNDI) is thrilled to recognize Christy King as our 2025 Volunteer of the Year.
Christy’s commitment to supporting young people began long before she came to the Gorge. While living in Wilsonville, she volunteered as a mentor at MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Woodburn, Oregon, reflecting her deep and enduring commitment to helping youth build brighter futures. When she later moved to the area, she was eager to make a difference in her new community. Inspired by a newspaper ad for Gorge Youth Mentoring (GYM) at The Next Door, she applied to become a mentor, a decision that would soon shape a powerful and lasting connection.
Over the last 3 years, Christy has dedicated countless hours to exploring the Gorge, trying new experiences, and supporting her mentee, Damian’s, growth in ways that go far beyond GYM’s program requirements. Together, they hike scenic trails, visit history museums, go bowling, enjoy food outings, attend cultural events like the Gorge Festival of Nations, and spend time wildlife viewing, spotting sea lions, sea otters, and pikas. In the winter, they visit the mountain to sled and snowshoe, and in the summer, they regularly take part in free stand up paddleboarding with Wylde Wind and Water in Hood River.
Damian’s mother describes Christy as “an amazing match,” and says that without her, Damian wouldn’t have access to so many enriching experiences. Recently, the pair attended an event at the Columbia Center for the Arts during Black History Month called Black Infinity House, an immersive art exhibit featuring work from 30+ Black artists across Oregon, where Damian was captivated by a piece of art. The curator, August Oaks, noticed Damian’s enthusiasm and invited him to attend a class with the artist, DeLoné Osby. Damian was the only child in the class, but he loved every moment, guided by the Osby’s encouragement and Christy’s support.
When Christy first learned of her Volunteer of the Year recognition, she was humbly surprised. “It doesn’t feel like volunteering,” she reflects. “I get to do things I love and have someone to enjoy them with.” For her, the most rewarding part of her mentoring journey has been watching Damian grow and gain confidence in trying new things that he used to shy away from.
The Next Door is deeply grateful for Christy’s compassion, consistency, and the genuine joy she brings to Gorge Youth Mentoring. We are honored to recognize Christy King as Volunteer of the Year and celebrate the lasting impact she continues to make through her time, care, and dedication.
