2021 DePreist Award for Excellence Announced

Join Us September 23rd

We are pleased to announce that on Thursday, September 23, 2021, we will once again proudly host our DePreist Award for Excellence event presented by The Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation. This year we will again be airing the virtual event in primetime on KGW Channel 8 at 7:00 pm and are excited to have as our event emcees acclaimed singer Julianne Johnson and KGW news anchor Brenda Braxton.

For 20 years, Volunteers of America Oregon has presented the annual DePreist Award for Excellence to community leaders, philanthropists, and executives. The award honors individuals who exemplify the spirit of community service and share a commitment to making Oregon a better place to live, work, and grow.

The DePreist Award for Excellence was established to honor the contributions of the late Oregon Symphony Maestro James “Jimmy” DePreist and his wife, Ginette, to the Portland community. “The DePreists remind us of the importance of service to others as well as the value of the arts in our community,” said Kay Toran, President/CEO of Volunteers of America Oregon.

For 125 years VOA Oregon has been empowering individuals, families, and communities in Oregon. This year at our fundraising event, we will celebrate the impact of VOA Oregon programs and services and what it means to be in community and work together for the greater good. Join us as we recognize the important contributions of those who have supported our mission and allowed us to serve our community. 

“In order to create change and build stronger communities, we must work together. Since 1896 we have had a dedicated staff at VOA Oregon who have worked passionately to serve our community,” said Kay Toran, President/CEO of Volunteers of America Oregon. “In addition, we have had the support of partners and individuals in the community who have helped us build a better Oregon. Our success is their success. This year we are celebrating what we have accomplished over 125 years. Together, we are VOA Oregon.”

Join us on September 23rd at 7:00 pm as we honor the past and inspire the future.