It all began with a woman's desire to honor her older sister and have her remembered for the kindness and care that she showed the elderly.
Carrie Young, daughter of Dolores and the late Bill Young, and sister to Christie (Young) Winegar of Prairie City, and Lucie (Young) Immoos, both of Grant County, Oregon, died tragically after an automobile accident in 1993. She was just 32. After Carrie's death, the Young family learned that at Christmas each year Carrie, who had worked at the Blue Mountain Nursing Home in Prairie City, would purchase gifts for the residents of the nursing home who had no family - always with her own money. Carrie wanted to make sure that everyone had a gift to open on Christmas morning. Lucie wanted to see her sister's tradition carried on. She began the Carrie Young Memorial Drive for the Elderly in 1993. The first year she raised approximately $50 donated generously by Forest Service employees, which provided gifts for a few. Each year growing a bit more. By 2019, Carrie Young Memorial raised over $43,000. By 2020, while navigating the challenges of a global pandemic, the Carrie Young Memorial still managed to bring in just over $44,702. With much loss and uncertainty continuing throughout 2021, Grant County shined bright and reminded us of our strength raising just under $50,000! Remarkable. Proceeds provide gifts for all patients at local assisted living facilities and support approximately 225 elder living at home with groceries, electric credits, firewood, and everyday living essentials. |
Lucie, Dolores, and Christie.My family and I are always overwhelmed by the generosity of so many, and we know Carrie would feel the same." |
Behind the scenes after the auction.
Immediately following the auction, Lucie, Christie, Dolores and crew get busy shopping for gifts and requested supplies for the seniors. After a long weekend of shopping, comes a full-day of gift wrapping. Lucie recruits High School students seeking community service opportunities to help her get through the extensive task. Spending the day sorting, organizing, wrapping, and soaking in holiday cheer reminiscing of another remarkable charity near completion. Lucie and her family then distribute the gifts to each assisted living facility, and join them for their holiday celebration knowing that Carrie is smiling down thankful for another year that our elderly are not left behind.