January 2026

10th Anniversary VNW Press Release

By Judith Damiani
Posted: 08/15/2025

10 Years and 870 Lives Later: Villages NW Celebrates a Legacy of Support
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Age-at-Home with Friendship and Dignity

August, 15, 2025

Gresham, OR – A local senior recently shared, "My Village made it possible for me to live
these last two years where I most wanted to stay—and where I feared I could not—in my own
home."

This powerful reflection captures the essence of the Village Movement, which Villages NW has
championed for a decade. On September 13, Villages NW will mark the 10th anniversary of its
first Village with a celebration at Oaks Park for members and volunteers.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate this milestone,” remarked Lyn Trainer, Executive Director.
“Over the past ten years, we’ve seen firsthand how community connection and support can
transform the experience of aging.”

The event also coincides with the 25th anniversary of the national Village Movement, a
grassroots model that empowers older adults to age in place with purpose and community.

A Movement Built on Connection
Since launching Eastside Village in Southeast Portland on October 1, 2015, Villages NW has
grown into a regional force. Today, it supports 870 members through a network of 11 Villages,
powered by 700 volunteers across the four-county metro area and Oregon coast, including
UpRiver Village which serves Gresham, Troutdale, Fairview and Wood Village.

Nationally, the Village Movement includes nearly 300 Villages serving more than 40,000
members.

UpRiver Village is more than a service provider—it’s a warm and caring community. Hosting
over 120 activities and events each month, the Villages offer older adults meaningful ways to
connect, contribute, and thrive. Volunteers provide critical support, from transportation and light
maintenance to companionship and opportunities to make new friends close to home.

The Power of a Helping Hand
 The impact of the Villages is deeply felt by both members and volunteers. Pete Jacobsen, a volunteer driver for Eastside Village, shared: "I take a diverse group of folks to their appointments. My favorite 'gig' is driving an impaired
husband to an elder day care facility so his caregiver wife can run errands—or just relax. It
gives me great pleasure to provide that service as a Village volunteer."

This spirit of mutual support and human connection is the heart of the Village
Movement—showing how a simple act of kindness can transform lives.

About Villages NW
Villages NW is a nonprofit organization building vibrant, intergenerational communities that
help older adults live active, connected, and independent lives in their own homes.

Through the power of volunteers and neighbor-to-neighbor care, Villages NW is transforming
the experience of aging across the Portland metro area—and beyond.

 

Media Contact:
Tracy Mills
(503) 489 8813
[email protected]