Annual fundraiser Oct. 15 to feature ‘Leading With Empathy’ panel

VANCOUVER — Council for the Homeless is proud to host Gathering for Change 2025, an inspiring evening of storytelling, insight and community-driven solutions, presented by Walsh Construction Co. This pivotal annual fundraiser takes place Wednesday, Oct. 15, at the historic Kiggins Theatre, with a virtual attendance option available. 

As the lead organization in Clark County’s homeless response system, Council for the Homeless invites the community to come together in the belief that homelessness is solvable — when we move forward together. 

Attendees will hear powerful stories of resilience, gain expert insight, and learn how to take tangible action to prevent and end homelessness. 

• Date & Time: Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. 
• Location: Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main St., Vancouver 
• Tickets: General admission includes entry, dinner and drinks. Sliding scale pricing and scholarship options are available to ensure accessibility for all. 

Council for the Homeless is pleased to acknowledge Walsh Construction Co. as this year’s presenting sponsor. Its leadership and generosity play a crucial role in powering the community and supporting this event. 

A dynamic panel conversation will explore how compassion drives real change in housing, advocacy and funding. This engaging discussion features respected community leaders: 

• Jesse Beason, president and CEO, Northwest Health Foundation 
• Ed Johnson, director of litigation, Oregon Law Center Moderated by Esra Khalil, senior program officer at the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington

The conversation will inform, inspire and uplift. Gathering for Change is more than a fundraiser — it’s a movement. Celebrate the real, measurable progress being made across Clark County. Discover how individual stories and collaborative efforts are transforming lives and advancing our shared goal of safe, stable housing for everyone. Proceeds directly support Council for the Homeless in its efforts to solve homelessness through a coordinated communitywide approach. For more event information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.councilforthehomeless.org/events/gathering-for-change. 

For sponsorship information, email Maggie Bernetich, annual giving and events manager, at mberetich@councilforthehomeless.org. 

About Council for the Homeless

Council for the Homeless (CFTH) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness in Clark County, by providing community leadership, compelling advocacy, and practical solutions to solve homelessness on an individual and community level. Founded in 1989, CFTH serves as the lead agency and coordinated entry for delivery of homeless services through the Continuum of Care for Homeless Services in Clark County.