Nick Fish
Comtnl$lon.r, clty ot P6rtl.nd

Dear Friend,
Last Saturday, I attended a wedding at the First Congregational Church
in downtown Portland. My friends Denise and Julius tied the knot in the
presence of family and friends. Their relationship has taught me life
lessons I will never forget. And their story reminds me why Portland is
such a special place.
Ten years ago, Denise and Julius were homeless, Iiving under a bridge'
Outreach workers from JOIN helped them find their first apartment
together. At the time, I served as Housing Commissioner for the City' I
asked my friend Marc Jolin (Executive Director of JOIN) if I could
deliver a meal to one of their clients over the holidays. That's how I was

first introduced to Denise and Julius.
On Christmas Eve, my family visited them at their apartment off Powell
and 7znd. They were kind and welcoming. Later, I became part of their
informal support group and we were able to help them in other ways'
Over the years, they faced significant adversity - evictions, financial
challenges, disabilities, and major healthcare setbacks' Their story of
resilience and grace is inspiring enough, but what I witnessed on

Saturday was even more Powerful.
Denise and Julius volunteer for Potluck in the Park and have serwed on
the board of the non-profit. They have brought hope to the lives of
literally thousands of people. And they sewe as role models of what it
means to be deeply engaged in your community.

l22l S\v
(t03) 8211589

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Fourth Avenue. Room 2401Porhnd, O(Bon 97204 1998
FAX (501) 823-1596 tTDD (t03) 823-6868
nicl@po(hndoregon.sov

 

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 Originally, their plan was to get married in Vancouver - it would be
cheaper than getting married in Oregon. But their friends and colleagues
at Potluck in the Park had a different plan' They started a GoFundMe
campaign, lined up donations including a two-night stay in the
dorvntown Hilton, rented the church, and reunited long lost family
members. And, as a result, Denise and Julius hatl a wedding that truly
honored their commitment to each other'
Thanksgiving is a time to count our blessings' This year I'm gratefuI for
my friendship with Denise and Julius. For the Potluck in the Park family
that organized an unforgettable wedding. For the JOIN family that every
day helps people transition from our streets to safe homes. And for all
those who believe that housing and healthcare are basic human rights'
Sincerely,

lt.cu

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(503) 82,1 3t89

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823-6868 1 nick@po(l.ndoqon.,roy

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