From Siding To Paint: Happy Valley Comes Together To Help A Veteran (Photo) - 01/31/26

This morning, the City of Happy Valley, Team Rubicon volunteers, and community partners came together at Carver Mobile Home Ranch in Happy Valley to make a difference in the life of a local Vietnam Veteran. Volunteers from Team Rubicon volunteers joined Mayor Tom Ellis, Director of Community Services Steve Campbell, and City staff to help bring Gary’s home into compliance with HOA and park standards.

During the morning, volunteers removed old siding, replaced it with new materials, and painted the home, ensuring it met required standards and allowing Gary to remain safely housed. The work was made possible thanks to PARR Lumber’s Damascus location, which generously donated all necessary supplies, including siding, paint, and other materials.

City staff first met Gary during the recent flooding along the Clackamas River while checking on residents affected by rising waters. Neighbors had shared that Gary, a Vietnam Veteran, was struggling to maintain his home due to rising costs and limited resources.

Moved by his story, the City partnered with Team Rubicon, a veteran-led humanitarian organization that serves communities before, during, and after disasters. Maverick, a Team Rubicon volunteer, said:

“I believe in the power of service before self. No one should have to suffer while I still have breath and the ability to help. When we show up for our neighbors, we strengthen not just individual lives, but the entire community.”

Mayor Tom Ellis personally joined volunteers on-site, working alongside the team to make the repairs possible. “This morning’s work shows the power of neighbors helping neighbors,” Mayor Ellis said. “It’s veterans helping veterans, and a community stepping in when someone needs a hand.”

The City of Happy Valley thanks Team Rubicon, PARR Lumber, and everyone who volunteered today. Their efforts are a vivid example of the compassion, teamwork, and spirit that define the Happy Valley community.

https://youtube.com/shorts/XWtTUyX7S3o?si=32jEpHntfl3fCy5A

https://youtube.com/shorts/JkOdcVvwRqk?si=i5yJSZugv7Y0ohA6