Celebration Of Life

Honoring 15 Years of Community Remembrance

Marking the 15th anniversary of the Homeless Persons’ Memorial, the Celebration of Life has evolved into a transformative, day-long event that honors those we have lost in our community while creating a space of connection, hope, and shared support. This annual gathering invites individuals, families, and organizations to come together to reflect, celebrate, and uplift one another through art, stories, and collective action.

Event Details

Schedule of Activities & Creative Opportunities: 

  • 11:30 am: FREE breakfast at Coos Bay Fire Station: Art creation &  Raffles.

  • 1 – 4 pm: Enjoy snacks, warm drinks & the arts at local Venues: 

So It Goes (Open Mic); Time Bomb (Live music); Coos Head Food Coop (Dignity Arch & Art Studio) ; Front St. Bike Shop (Art, bike rides & raffle); Mingus Park Gazebo (Chalk Labyrinth); Egyptian Theater: FREE film & community resources information.

  • 6 – 8 pm Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 400 Highland Ave, CB: 

  • 6 – 7:15  pm: FREE Dinner & Raffle Drawings;

  • 6:45  pm: Lilah Bidwell Human Dignity Award; 

7:15  pm: Dignity Arch Candlelight Memorial (outside); 4 – 7 pm:  The SunStore  redistributes needed items and gift certificates.

How You Can Participate

Celebration of Life thrives on the power of community. There are many ways to get involved and make a meaningful contribution:

  • Volunteer Your Time

    • Help us bring this event to life by assisting with setup, serving meals, coordinating activities, or managing event booths.
    • Volunteers are also needed for specific roles, such as assisting with the SunStore (a community resource hub) or distributing food at participating venues.
      [Sign Up to Volunteer →](Volunteer Signup Google Doc Link)

  • Donate Needed Items

    • Stock the SunStore with essential items for community members, including warm clothing, camping gear, hygiene products, and gift cards.
    • Consider contributing toys, books, or other items for families and children to create a more inclusive resource space.
      [See Our Donation Guide →](Google Doc Link to Participation Guide)

  • Sponsor or Partner with Us

    • Join as a sponsor to provide financial support, donate commercially prepared food for our communal meals, or partner with us to amplify the impact of this event.
      [Learn More About Sponsorship →](Google Doc Link to Participation Guide)

  • Participate in the Virtual Auction- More Details Below

    • Contribute auction items or bid on unique experiences to help us reach our fundraising goal of $4,000. All proceeds go directly toward providing meals, supplies, and support for the event; as well as ongoing support.
    • Key Dates:
      • Donation Deadline: November 27
      • Auction Period: November 29 – December 15
        [Visit the Auction →](Auction Link)

  • Share the Event

    • Spread the word by sharing our event flyers and details with your network to invite others to join this important day of remembrance and connection.
      [Download Event Flyers →](Google Doc Link to Folder of Flyers)

  • Pray for Our Community

    • We welcome and encourage prayers for the success of this event, for those experiencing homelessness, and for the unity and resilience of our community.

Community Auction

Our Celebration of Life Auction offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the event and make an impact. We invite individuals, businesses, and organizations to donate items, services, or one-of-a-kind experiences to be featured in this exciting auction.

What to Donate

Unique Experiences: Partner with local businesses to offer exclusive experiences like behind-the-scenes brewery tours, private art workshops, or guided outdoor adventures. These one-of-a-kind opportunities will only be available through the auction.

Items: Donate handmade goods, art, gift baskets, collectibles, or specialty products that reflect your craft or creativity.

Services: Contribute services like professional consultations, spa treatments, photography sessions, or fitness training to provide bidders with valuable opportunities.

Why Participate? 

The proceeds from the auction directly support HRACC’s programs and initiatives, making a tangible difference in our community. 

As a donor, you’ll:

Be recognized for your contribution during the event and on our website.

Showcase your business or craft to a supportive local audience.

Help build a stronger, more connected Coos County.

 

For Auction Question or Donations- Contact:

Christopher Reynolds

541-217-0286

 

HumanRightsAdvocatesCC@gmail.com

Why This Matters

At its core, the Celebration of Life is about creating a space where every individual is valued, every story is heard, and every connection strengthens the bonds of our community. Together, we can honor lives lost while planting seeds of hope and dignity for the future.

“Every connection strengthens us. Together, we can create a community where every life is valued and every story has a place.”

We invite you to join us in this transformative day of reflection, remembrance, and shared hope.