Friends of OSD - FOSD

Enhancing the educational experience for OSD students.

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Family Learning Program

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In October 2013, families with children of all ages came to OSD for a weekend of workshops and activities at no cost to them.  OSD’s dietary staff prepared delicious meals for families who were housed in OSD’s dormitories.  Parents really enjoyed being able to relax, to eat without doing all the chores, and to get to know other parents.  A full schedule of workshops for parents rounded out the weekend.

During the workshops, the children were divided into age groups for supervised activities including swimming, captioned movies, and a bouncy house.  Before leaving, families participated in team-building activities, a family photo opportunity, an art contest, and a thrilling scavenger hunt.

It is hoped that this program will become an annual event.

This event was made possible by an award from FOSD. Learn more about FOSD’s award opportunities »

Our Mission

IMG_2702The FOSD mission and purpose is to support the enhancement of programs and services for students at OSD beyond the State’s funding responsibility*. The FOSD Board has identified four initiatives for which awards may be granted:  education, cultural activities, innovative programs and minor capital improvement projects.

Founded by a small group of dedicated people in 2006, FOSD was established to support the students at the Oregon School for the Deaf (OSD).  From that beginning, Friends of OSD has grown into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with an all-volunteer Board of Directors. In 2014, FOSD created an Advisory Council of 15 members.

The Friends of OSD Strategic Plan provides direction as the nonprofit continues to expand. We are proud to say that 95% of all grants and donations go directly to programs that benefit students.

*The State of Oregon is responsible for operating programs and services for the students at the Oregon School for the Deaf (OSD). Federal case law establishes the expectation that special education services provided by a school be reasonably designed to ensure students make progress. Friends of OSD will not replace or supplant the responsibilities of the state.

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