Where there’s a will, there’s a painted house

Tobey Veenstra
The Broadside

With a little paint, some brushes and a lot of good will, volunteers can help a member of the community on May 14.

For the community service project “Paint the Deschutes,” leaders and volunteers raise money and round up volunteers to help paint the house of someone who either lacks the funds or is unable to do it themselves.

There is a house lined up to be painted and much of the material has been donated but the team is looking for another crucial element to make the project a success.

“We need as many volunteers as possible,” said Juniper Hall resident director Paul Amar.

Amar and Juniper Hall housing manager Paul Wheeler are the ones behind the project, borrowing it from a similar project at the University of Idaho, the university they both attended. They first directed the project last spring with the help of Juniper Hall’s resident assistants
and other volunteers. This year dorm staff members have greater expectations.

“Last year, 20 people took three days [to complete the project],” said resident assistant Bre Steele. “Our goal is to do it in a day with more people.”

There will be accommodations for volunteers at the event, including prizes, for which dorm staff members are still accepting donations.

“You’ll get t-shirts, food, water, prizes and the experience of helping somebody,” said Amar. “We’re accepting donations, like money for the prizes … We’re good as far as paint equipment.”

Volunteers from last year will be available at the event for questions and can be identified by color-coded t-shirts.

Dorm staff members are also still encouraging people to sign up.

“We can have all the supplies in the world but we need the people painting,” said Steele.

Steele stressed the significance of the project to the Bend community.

“It’s the community feeling, the Bend mind set. We’re outdoors, we’re being helpful,” said Steele. “Come ready to get dirty and to help a community member; a fellow Bendite.”

Although run by Juniper Hall’s staff, the project is not exclusive to residence life or even Central Oregon Community College students; no experience is necessary and staff members welcome high-school students, out of town friends and parents. Volunteers are advised to bring sunscreen, gloves, a hat, work clothes and closed-toe shoes.

For more information, contact resident assistant Steele at 541-383-7593 or visit the “Paint the Deschutes” page on Facebook.

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