Central Oregon’s FANraiser Event Nets $160K to Support Local Children and Families

BEND, Ore. – The Family Access Network (FAN) announced a monumental victory for Central Oregon’s most vulnerable residents this week, revealing that its annual FANraiser gala generated a staggering $160,000 in critical funding. The successful event underscores the deep community commitment across Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson counties to ensure every child has the basic necessities to thrive in school.

Held at the Riverhouse on the Deschutes, the evening blended philanthropy with Oregon-style celebration, featuring live music, auctions, and powerful testimonials. The funds raised will directly support FAN’s network of advocates stationed in schools throughout the region, from Redmond to Prineville and Madras. These advocates act as lifelines, connecting students and their families with essential resources like food, clothing, healthcare, and housing assistance.

“This incredible show of support from our Central Oregon community means we can keep our advocates in schools, doing the vital work of breaking down barriers for kids,” said Julie Lyche, FAN’s Executive Director. “When a child is hungry or doesn’t have a warm coat, learning is impossible. This funding ensures we can say ‘yes’ to more families in crisis.”

The $160,000 haul marks one of the most successful fundraisers in the organization’s history, coming at a time when the need for such services in Oregon is acutely high. For local donors and attendees, the event was a poignant reminder that supporting FAN is a direct investment in the stability and future success of their own community’s youth, ensuring Oregon children have the foundation they need to succeed.