Families In Crisis
The violence in the home is not spoken about publicly or often. But it exists! Where can a spouse or child go for help? We are thankful for the work of the Raphael House in east Portland or the Family Justice Center of Washington County in Beaverton who provide a shelter, food, clothing, as well as legal counseling and court help as needed. The Raphael House is the recent recipient of a significant award from MacKenzie Scott (former wife of Jeff Bezos of Amazon fame). Some facilities have a closed-circuit TV connection to the court where the judge can act on legal issues as required without having the victims to go to the actual courtroom. This provides additional security. The focus is not only on the spouses, but the children are provided loving care as well.
A camaraderie exists between these organizations in different cities. They share best practices and emotionally support each other. Even though the work is hard at times, those who engage in such help are passionate about the service they give. They are proud to see a new life emerge as a result of their doors being opened.
The Walters Foundation has been welcomed by these nonprofit partners to conduct site visits to see their offices and their secluded safe houses. We were given tours and held frank discussions about the care that is given. The mission of helping at-risk youth and often moms is fulfilled through such great organizations. The mission of helping at-risk youth and moms is fulfilled through these great organizations.
Education
SMART Reading
The Walters Foundation understands how important reading is to young children, especially in ages two through six. We are proud to partner with SMART Reading, which attracts hundreds of volunteers in Oregon to read to young kids. Early reading to children has repeated shown to be helpful in better school performance. The Foundation and SMART have a great relationship of learning together to better the education of our children.
Many kids who were read to through the SMART Reading program have come back as volunteer readers themselves! Jessica Bowersox is the Executive Director leading this excellent program for the community children SMART Reading serves.
Mental Health
Oregon is grappling with a surge in homelessness—nearly 15,000 people statewide—many of whom face untreated mental illness and addiction. In response, lawmakers approved over $70 million in 2025 to expand behavioral health services, fund treatment beds, and support addiction prevention. New legislation also strengthens civil commitment laws and launches housing pilots for unsheltered individuals with psychiatric needs. Despite these efforts, high housing costs and fragmented care systems continue to challenge recovery. Advocates stress the need for integrated, long-term solutions to address the complex overlap of homelessness, mental health, and substance use across the state.
It is becoming clearer that homelessness and mental issues go hand in hand. Likely success will occur when leadership in Portland recognizes both issues.
Caring for Children
Children’s issues are vital to the mission of the Walters Foundation, and we are aware of a special group of kids – FOSTER children! The impact of being labeled “foster” not only on the kids, but on the foster parents is critical and can be scary. With a 2-hour notice that a set of foster twins is coming can turn a foster home upside down! Help from someone who understands the kids AND the parents is paramount. With Love is such an organization who provides emergency supplies to the homes caring for kids and giving much needed support and care to the wonderful parents. Supplies that come to With Love are cleaned catalogued, organized into bundles especially designed for the children’s care. And if needed, With Love uses their van to deliver these bags of goodies to the foster homes. We especially appreciate the leadership and work of Founder Allie Roth and her team including the volunteer workers.
Partner Testimonials
The Walters Foundation helped…
Laura Queen
The Walters Foundation takes a thoughtful and caring approach to every nonprofit partnership, carefully considering how to create meaningful, lasting impact. Their commitment goes far beyond providing funds — they work closely with each group to understand their unique needs and help them grow stronger and more effective.
They actively look for ways to foster confidence and leadership skills in both young people and nonprofit leaders, empowering them to become catalysts for positive change.
By offering both financial support and heartfelt guidance, the Walters Foundation helps programs expand their reach, touch more lives, and build a brighter future for everyone.
Through these collaborations, the Walters Foundation acts as a catalyst for compassion and connection, fostering empathy and community spirit. Their support has transformed thousands of lives and continues to spark hope and opportunity wherever it’s needed.
In every way, the Walters Foundation is much more than a funder — they are genuine life changers, committed to nurturing growth and empowering those they support to make a real and lasting difference.
Laura Queen
Development Director, Chelsea Hicks Foundation
Portland Rescue Mission
Shepherd’s Door located in NE Portland, is a safe place for women and their children to rebuild their lives. Our 12-month restoration program is called New Life, because that is what is offered, an opportunity to live a new life after homelessness and addiction. Women who lives have been devastated by addictions and toxic life patterns, participate in recovery programming, counseling, vocational training, and address root issues that led them and their children into homelessness in the first place.
Cliff Walters and Tamberly Couch generously offered their time and the resources to support the life transforming program at Shepherd’s Door. During their visit, we were struck by their engaging conversation, thoughtful and challenging questions. It is a rare and special opportunity to be blessed by the experience and knowledge Cliff has to offer. Before the site visit was over, he was already connecting us with resources and potential partners, we are so thankful the support of the Walters Family Foundation!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Our Non-Profit Partners
