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Together: Canby Center News April 2025
- The Canby Center
- Apr 1
- 4 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Together At The Center
"Then God said, 'Let us make mankind in our image…" (Genesis 1:26)
At the heart of our existence lies an extraordinary truth: every human being possesses inherent dignity because each of us bears the image of God. While we are not divine, we carry within us a reflection of our Creator’s creativity, beauty, and splendor. This dignity is not something we can buy, inherit, or earn—it is freely given, intrinsic to who we are, and it profoundly shapes how we should treat one another.
You might have noticed a billboard highlighting this very message along 99E across from Chipotle. This month, Dr. Michael Vissers of Canby Spine and Sport generously donated billboard space to help spread this powerful message of dignity.
This core belief in human dignity anchors the mission of The Canby Center.
Every day, we witness how affirming someone’s inherent worth can restore hope, foster community, and transform lives. Just this morning, our staff took a meaningful moment to reaffirm each other's dignity. We turned to the person seated next to us and shared words of gratitude and recognition of the character we see displayed daily. I had the privilege of telling my colleague Mark how deeply I respect his commitment as a loving father. By the end of this simple exercise of sharing a blessing, our eyes were filled with joyful tears.
At The Canby Center, we believe dignity is key to breaking cycles of poverty. The way we view ourselves and each other either closes doors or opens them to new possibilities. As we expand our facility, this foundational value of dignity will open doors for thousands of people. We’re building spaces specifically designed to inspire learning, foster meaningful connections, and continually renew hope among youth and families.
Together, let's embrace and uphold the dignity within each of us—reflecting God's glory and uplifting one another.
Dignity is our shared hope—that beyond the struggles of this life lies a purpose we embrace together. You can learn more about the importance of dignity in our work.
What is the building expansion for?
When will it be completed? How big is it? You can learn more through the frequently asked questions on our website.
A Hand Up, Not a Hand Out
Every weekend, hundreds of students in our community take home a compact bag filled with fresh fruit, snacks, and meals they can prepare unassisted — ensuring they return to school on Monday nourished and ready to learn. Since January 1, 2025, thanks to our dedicated packing teams, 2,789 food packs have been distributed by Canby School staff to kids who might otherwise go hungry. Since the program’s inception in the 2000s, 93,191 food packs have been provided.
This month we asked the volunteers packing Backpack Buddies bags to share their heart for this program. You’re sure to be inspired by their service!
What motivates you to volunteer for this program?
A friend, Laura, galvanized our friend group into action!
I was disadvantaged as a young person. I would come home in the evenings and there would be no food to eat—nothing there. I was always hungry because, although my school offered a free lunch line, it was really conspicuous and humiliating; I didn't want to look like I was a poor kid.
I am a former educator, so my heart for the kids motivates me.
What’s your favorite part of packing the bags each week?
It’s so organized! The lists and inventory are managed really well.
It’s fun to sort, and it’s satisfying to see how our team can do in just an hour.
I feel really appreciated for the time and energy I’m giving here. Thank you!
What do you think makes this program special?
Something that really matters to me is the anonymity built into the way the kids get their food. There’s nothing on the brown bags that says “food” or “free” or “help” — just The Canby Center’s logo, and that’s it.
You know, there have been parents who see the emblem on the bag and come here to find the help they need to sustain their family through tough times.
How has volunteering in this program impacted you personally?
It helps me! I’m recently widowed, and it’s important to me that I have things to do — ways to give back and feel connected.
Backpack Buddies packing is something I look forward to; it adds momentum to my day, and I feel energized by what we’re doing together.
I enjoy this work because it’s a welcome change from my other service (looking after my grandkids). I think my volunteer service sets an example that I can be proud of.
What you can do:
Volunteer: join our amazing team of volunteers and help ensure no child in our community goes hungry over the weekend!
Support: funding for Backpack Buddies is a consistent need — make a special gift today to support this crucial service to kids. Give online (selection “Backpack Buddies” designation) or by check.
We're Hiring
The Canby Center is expanding our development team and seeking a mission-driven leader to spearhead fundraising efforts and strengthen community partnerships. Guided by God’s love, this role plays a vital part in ensuring TCC has the resources needed to serve our community. The ideal candidate will bring strategic vision, relationship-building skills, and a heart for service—leading a dedicated team to plan, execute, and evaluate fundraising initiatives with transparency and care.
If you or someone you know has fundraising and/or sales experience and a heart for service, we encourage you to apply!
Learn more and apply on our website or contact us today.
“I kept on the emotional mask that helps me feel protected. But as I got to know my mentor and their care for me, I felt more comfortable. I decided to take off the mask and allow myself to be seen.” - Quest Mentee, 7th Grade
Building For Tomorrow
Enjoy this time-lapse video to see the incredible progress so far!
We're In This Together
Did you know that Friends of Canby support the Canby Center at $100 monthly or more? These friends receive special communication and benefits from the Center, and they make a lasting impact on our community!
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