May 2025

Facilitator Tip: Creating Identity-Inclusive Spaces: Gender Identity and Neurodiversity

At Dougy Center, we are committed to fostering an environment that is both safe and inclusive. A safe environment is more than just physical safety. It also means working to minimize the negative judgment and invalidation many children, teens, young adults, and adults encounter when expressing their grief outside of our program.


An inclusive environment is one that actively welcomes and values diverse identities and perspectives. As a facilitator, you play a crucial role in trying to create both safety and inclusion. You can do this by upholding our safety guidelines, using the skills of facilitation, and employing practices that honor personal identity, autonomy, and shared experiences.  


If someone were to ask you what makes a space feel inclusive for you, what would you...continue reading

Camp Samantha – We Need Your Help! 

This July we are hosting a series of one-day art camps for kids and teens. Come join us for a full day or half day volunteer commitment to support kids and teens with art, music, movement, and more.


Dates: July 14th, 15th, and 16th! Please reach out to Melissa Peede Thompson at melissa@dougy.org or 503-542-4838 to learn more. 

Volunteer In-Service Training – Behavioral Redirection with Children & Teens 

Join Melissa Peede-Thompson, Program Manager, and Alysha Lacey, Chief Program Officer, for an opportunity to enhance your skills in behavioral redirection. We’ll review developing awareness around how behaviors impact you and those in your group, practical skills, and some serious support and encouragement for when and how to jump in and redirect. Note: we will focus on supporting children and teens, but adult caregiver group facilitators are also welcome. 


Wednesday, June 11, 2025 

6 - 7 p.m. 

Dougy Center, 3903 SE 52nd Avenue, Portland OR 


Please contact Melissa Peede Thompson at melissa@dougy.org or 503-542-4838 to confirm your attendance. 

Adult Caregiver Facilitator Peer Supervision 

If you facilitate adult caregiver support groups, we invite you to join our peer supervision group. This is a space to connect with fellow facilitators, learn from diverse experiences, and collaboratively address challenging situations. 


Join us Tuesday, June 10, 2025, from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. RSVP to Meredith Kelly at meredith@dougy.org.

Traveling This Summer?

We understand that summer brings many activities like travel, hosting loved ones, and enjoying time at home. To help us maintain sufficient volunteer coverage for all groups during June, July, August, and September, please let your Coordinator know if you expect to miss any sessions.

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dougy.org · help@dougy.org · 503.775.5683