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Together At The Center
Their young daughter's cancer diagnosis had left them physically, emotionally, and financially exhausted. In December, the family came to The Canby Center, searching for a way through. Hope can sometimes feel elusive. The last six months had been heavy, but we were able to help this young family with clothes, warm coats, and Christmas gifts. Hope can bring light to difficult circumstances.
As I reflect on 2024, my heart is full. I’ve prayed and given thanks, grieved, released old regrets, and laid down some striving and fear. I’m carrying one word with me into 2025: HOPE. It’s more than a vague wish; it’s the light I cling to when uncertainty looms. I trust this hope will guide families—including my own—toward breakthroughs, keep me rooted in my faith in Jesus, help bring The Canby Center’s new building expansion to life, and see me through publishing my first book.
I'm holding onto hope that reaches far beyond 2025. I long to see my children grow up, raise families of their own, and discover their life’s purpose. My heart aches for friends who are hurting, and I yearn to see their pain lifted. I dream of a world at peace, free from war, poverty, and hunger. These are not just fleeting thoughts; they are promises anchored in the words of Jesus Christ:
“Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain…” (Revelation 21:3–4)
At The Canby Center, we strive to live out this hope. We see the single dad praying for work, the child yearning for a stable home, the family reeling from a cancer diagnosis—and we stand alongside them, determined to be a place of refuge and restoration. As 2025 unfolds, I invite you to share in this hope: pray for us, warm our hearts by volunteering, and consider becoming a “Friend of Canby.” Together, we can carry hope to our neighbors, offering the support and compassion that changes lives—now and for generations to come.
With hope,
We're In This Together
When Vanessa Zimmerman moved to Canby, she was embraced by a loving community. Now, she’s giving back in meaningful ways, like bringing to life the beloved “Christmas in Canby” event. Held on December 7 at Wait Park, the event featured a 5K Run/Walk fundraiser, with all proceeds donated to The Canby Center.
This annual celebration is truly a team effort. “It wouldn’t exist without help from my friends,” Vanessa shared with us. Brittney Hopping, who grew up in Canby, has supported Vanessa’s vision at every step; “I absolutely couldn’t have done it without her” said Vanessa. Amy Baez, of Fit for Excellence, arranged details for the 5K fundraiser. “Amy is a regular supporter of The Canby Center, and we couldn’t have the 5K without her help,” Vanessa said. Together, Vanessa, Amy, and Brittney decided to donate the proceeds to The Canby Center.
Reflecting on her motivation, Vanessa shared, “It fills my soul to do outreach for the community. I especially love Christmas—what it means to me because of my faith and how it brings friends and family together.”
We are incredibly thankful for Vanessa, Brittney, Amy, and the entire team of volunteers and supporters who brought Christmas in Canby to life. Thanks to their hard work, the proceeds from the 5K are helping to support The Canby Center’s mission to renew dignity and inspire learning for youth and families. As we start the New Year, we’re reminded of how much we can achieve together, and we’re grateful for all who serve our community with such love and care.
Would you like to be part of this team effort? Whether it’s sorting donations, tutoring a student, becoming a Reading Mentor, or spearheading a fundraiser initiative, your help is invaluable.
Every contribution—big or small—makes a difference. Join us in making an impact today!
Building For Tomorrow
Excitement is building as The Canby Center’s $10 million expansion project reaches key milestones! According to Mark Smith, TCC’s Director of Expansion, the masonry team is hard at work finalizing the 36 foot walls. Custom steel embeds have been cemented into the walls to form the foundation of the second floor. We anticipate moving into the new side of the building in Fall 2025, with the entire project wrapping up around the close of 2025. Meanwhile, our partnerships on the project including the City of Canby, Canby School District, and Clackamas County remain strong, fueling this vital effort.
Enjoy this time-lapse video to see the incredible progress so far!
Want to be a part? Support the building campaign through the purchase of a personalized brick; leave your mark at the entrance of the new building!
Community Christmas
Our annual Community Christmas Celebration brought joy and connection to 125 kids who shopped for the perfect gifts to surprise their loved ones. Families joined in the festive spirit with holiday crafts, a visit from Santa, a goat petting zoo, and delicious treats, creating unforgettable memories. Warmth and laughter filled the air, making it a night to remember.
A heartfelt thank you to Canby Christian Church for welcoming us so graciously during our year of construction, and to everyone who donated stocking stuffers to bring the magic of the season to life. Your generosity made this event meaningful for all ages, leaving smiles on every face — ours included!
A Hand Up, Not A Handout
Real change is happening through The Canby Center’s no-cost, one-on-one tutoring program. For one student, we’ll call Madison, this support has been life-changing. Her family first sought help years ago when Madison was struggling with math. “The help we could give her at home wasn't making a difference,” her mom shared. “When we found out you offer free tutoring, we were blown away!”
Before, Madison’s family was paying $75 an hour for tutoring, which was a financial strain. Madison has forged a strong bond with her tutor and eagerly looks forward to their weekly sessions at The Canby Center.
“I believe 100% that Madison’s tutor is a huge part of how our daughter got to where she is now!” And where is that? Because of tutoring support through The Canby Center, Madison was invited to join an advanced math class, and is thriving.
Did you know? There’s a waitlist of students hoping to be matched with a tutor in 2025. Learn more about the program and apply to be a tutor today!
Together We Give
Canby needs a friend. Did you know, the need for meals we provide is up more than 20%? We are looking Friends of Canby who will link arms with us by giving $100 per month or more. Predictable revenue means TCC can sustain existing programs and expand to meet increasing need.
Friends of Canby commit to donate a minimum of $100 per month. After the first three monthly gifts of $100 or more, we will recognize your support by sending you a YETI traveler mug engraved with “Friends of Canby” - our way of saying THANK YOU for being a Friend of Canby!
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