“For small creatures such as we, the vastness is bearable only through love.” – Carl Sagan

With 47 years of experience in preventing child abuse, Home Start’s services range from strengthening the family so the abuse does not happen in the first place, to providing healing therapy and evidence-based treatment if trauma and brokenness has occurred. Board Chair, Cameron Clarke is leading the fight against child abuse as well as helping families break the cycle of poverty, homelessness and neglect. Funds raised from Hallo-Wine support Home Start’s full spectrum of programs that ensure children live in a safe, stable and nurturing home.

10 Things About Cameron Clarke & Home Start

#1 I grew up in Lebanon, Oregon, a town of about 12,000. My K-8 rural school had a total of 80 kids.

#2 I think it is important for everyone to be a good listener. Too often people are waiting to speak rather than truly listening to what another person has to say.

#3 I really enjoyed camping and visiting several National Parks in Utah – Bryce, Zion and Arches are amazing places. It is wonderful to see all the beauty that nature creates.

#4 I would love to travel to Ireland to learn about my Irish roots.

#5 We have 2 dogs, a cat and 5 chickens that our daughters named: Perch, Fluffy, Betty, Peck and Bubble Gum Lollipop.

#6 I often make my daughters laugh by talking like Donald Duck.

#7 What has surprised me most in life is how tough it is to be a parent. Even though my wife and I are good parents, we always find ourselves questioning the decisions we make and wondering if we are messing it all up.

#8 My parents instilled in me at a young age that every person deserves kindness. I am passing the same lesson on to my children by having my daughters join us in volunteer activities and teaching them to look for ways to show kindness to others.

#9 My father was recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Although I am devastated, I am fortunate that we spend quality time together. Too often we feel like time is abundant when in reality, we never know how many days we have left. My father’s illness has shown me the importance of valuing each day and appreciating my family and the time we have together.

#10 When Samantha came to Home Start, she was a single mother who couldn’t find a job, had a stressful housing situation and no support system. Samantha is now employed, has a support system, and safe housing. Samantha has also addressed her daughter’s behavioral challenges, is learning to be an effective advocate for her children and is working on even more goals.