A Message from Nicole, Candlelighters’ Program Director – July 2026

Dear Candlelighters Families,

Here at Candlelighters, we are enjoying the beautiful summer and planning for the wonderful events ahead! As the return to school approaches, we want to cherish these summer moments together.

Recently, our Latino families attended a Portland Thorns game together, and our Mom’s Group enjoyed a memorable night out at the Heist Food Carts in SE Portland. Additionally, our survivorship group for pediatric cancer survivors over 21 attended a Rae Gordon Blues Band performance as part of the City of Beaverton’s outdoor summer concert series. Our Mid-Willamette families were also invited to attend—and even throw the first pitch at—a Eugene Emeralds game!

Looking ahead, we have our Luminaries on the Lake event for teen families on Lake Oswego, featuring swimming, pizza, and boat rides. If your served child is between the ages of 13 and 20 and wants to join, this is a great opportunity to connect and have fun. In August, we will also cheer on the Portland Thorns with our survivorship group at Providence Park. The Mid-Willamette Chapter is having a family Bingo at the Elks lodge in Eugene which is a great time for all! Finally, August brings our annual Ride for a Child event, our biggest fundraiser of the year, where we will honor six of our Candlelighters children with their team and an official ride out to kick off the main ride which is from August into September. We also are busy planning our fall and winter events, which are sure to be wonderful.Your can RSVP to these exciting events on our website!

These are the moments to savor summer while preparing for fall’s return. As Candlelighters, we understand that returning to school looks different for every family. I encourage you to check out our resource guide for families who will be learning from home. It includes fun opportunities to view animals on live cams and other ideas for families to explore.

As always, we are here to support you and create events that build our community.

With warmth and friendship,
Nicole