We are honored to give this month’s Champion for Students award to a valued member of the greater Bend-La Pine Schools community, Clare Gordon, the Facilities Supervisor for Bend Park & Recreation’s Pavilion. She’s a partner who has made a positive impact on our students.

Clare’s nomination came from our own Kinsey Martin.

"Our school district's Youth and Family Alliance supports the well-being of our LGBTQ students through positive practices, policies, and culture-building. In Alliance conversations, Parks & Rec and Clare Gordon come up repeatedly as a community strength. In particular, the LGBTQ Skate Nights at The Pavilion (supported in large part by Clare) have had an immense impact on our students, who look forward to those events as a safe and welcoming place for healthy and accessible activity. Parents have reported how grateful they are for this opportunity and that their kids are happier and healthier as a result.

"Clare recently joined us to share more about programs and activities like Skate Nights, and to listen to our families' and students' feedback and requests. She took her own time to do this, and our group was grateful for her presence, partnership, and commitment."

Bend Park & Rec Director of Recreation Matt Mercer shared this:

"Clare shows up every day as a champion to create an environment where everyone feels welcomed and valued. The Skate Club is one of many things that Clare has done to make The Pavilion feel like home to community members who do not always feel comfortable in public spaces. Whether the LGBTQ+ community, first generation Latino families, or introducing girls to the sport of hockey, Clare strives to provide everyone the opportunity to benefit from the wealth of opportunities offered while being their authentic selves."

Bend Park & Rec Assistant to the Executive Director Sheila Reed share feedback from a parent whose daughter participated in one of Clare’s programs, ‘Girls Have the Edge’ hockey program:

"I loved that this was an event for girls and women, supporting and encouraging a love for the sport. (My daughter) was able to see other girls and women at many different ages and skill levels participating, and was impressed by the turnout of the participants, their parents, coaches and staff."

In recognition of Clare Gordon's commitment to growing the partnership between Bend Park & Recreation and Bend-La Pine Schools in support of our community’s LGBTQ youth. Through her leadership and dedication to the LGBTQ Skate Nights at the Pavilion, she has created a lasting impact on our students who are welcomed into a safe, healthy space for physical and social activity. At Bend-La Pine Schools, we deeply appreciate Clare's partnership and are proud to count her as a Champion for Students.