Geoff Jensen Rides for HOPE Chest

Follow his progress in Dee Anne's blog - click here!

Follow this link to a map of his journey

United Way Launches HOPE (Helping Out People Everyday) Chest

United Way of Jackson County is launching HOPE (Helping Out People Everyday) Chest in partnership with the Mail Tribune.  This fund follows the remarkably successful and important pilot project, Hank’s Bank.

Hank’s Bank was created in memory of Hank Collins, Jackson County’s former head of Health and Human Services.  “Hank was a community hero in the war on poverty and disease.  He had vision.  He was brilliant at strategic thinking and getting the very best from people.” said Cydne Collins.  “Hank’s Bank was a good pilot project and revealed an ongoing need to help people with emergency financial support not available elsewhere.  I’m glad that United Way will continue this fund under the name of HOPE Chest.”  Funds currently in Hank’s Bank will be fully expended helping people with emergency needs.

Geoff Jensen, a Phoenix High School senior, will provide the first deposits into HOPE Chest.  Geoff’s senior project is to ride his bike across Oregon with a mentor and friend followed by his father in a car.  They leave on Sunday, June 21.  “Geoff is a remarkable young man who understands community.  He’s been a United Way volunteer, who got us on FaceBook last summer, and a summer day camp counselor for Easter Seals.”  said Dee Anne Everson, executive director, United Way. 

Funds donated to HOPE Chest will be used as the funds for Hank’s Bank were used.  Hank’s Bank, in the six months pilot, helped more than 130 people with everything from surgical stockings to wood to heat homes and rent and power bill assistance.  To volunteer or donate, contact United Way at 541.773.5339