As Central Oregon mourns the tragic shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School, MountainStar Family Relief Nursery (MountainStar) joins the community in holding the children, families, educators, and everyone impacted close in our hearts.
In the wake of this heartbreaking event, MountainStar recognizes the importance of compassion, connection, and showing up for one another. As the community navigates this challenging chapter together, MountainStar hopes the upcoming 6th Annual Bend Witches Paddle on Saturday, October 31, can offer a meaningful opportunity for families, friends, and neighbors to gather, support one another, and experience a little joy during an incredibly difficult time.
“Our hearts are heavy as we grieve alongside our Central Oregon community,” said Kara Tachikawa, MountainStar Executive Director. “There are no easy words in moments like these. What we do know is that connection, compassion, and community matter deeply. We hope the Witches Paddle can provide a space for people to come together, find comfort in one another, and be reminded of the strength and care that surrounds us.”
A Community Tradition Rooted in Connection
The 6th Annual Bend Witches Paddle returns to Riverbend Park on Saturday, October 31, from 3-6pm, in partnership with the Old Mill District’s Halloween Trick-or-Treat festivities.
Participants are invited to dress in their favorite witchy attire, decorate their paddleboards, and join fellow witches on the water. Those who prefer to stay on shore are welcome to enjoy the festivities and cheer on the paddlers.
The event is free and open to everyone. Attendees are encouraged to bring diapers and baby wipes to donate to families participating in MountainStar programs. These everyday essentials provide practical support for local families with young children.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
- Time: 3-6pm
- Location: Riverbend Park, Bend
- Admission: Free; donations of diapers and baby wipes welcome
Whether on the water or along the riverbank, MountainStar welcomes the entire community to join in an afternoon of connection, compassion, and togetherness.
October Community Care Project: Comfort & Calm
In honor of MountainStar’s 25th Anniversary, and to continue showing care across Central Oregon, this month MountainStar invites the community to participate in its Comfort & Calm Community Care Project, an initiative focused on providing nurturing, comforting items for young children and families.
During times of uncertainty and stress, small moments of comfort and connection can make a meaningful difference. A familiar story, a cozy blanket, or a comforting sensory activity can help young children feel safe, supported, and connected to the people who care for them.
MountainStar is collecting new items, including:
- Children’s books
- Cozy blankets
- Pajamas
- New stuffed animals
- Sensory items such as play dough, fidgets, soft lighting, and puzzles
“Children thrive when they feel safe, loved, and connected,” said Tachikawa. “At MountainStar, that belief guides our work every day. Through this month’s Community Care Project, we’re inviting our neighbors to help create small but meaningful moments of comfort for children and families who may be navigating significant stress.”
Donations can be dropped off throughout October at MountainStar locations in La Pine, Bend, Redmond, Madras, and Prineville.
At the heart of this work is a simple belief: strong communities help create stronger families, and stronger families help keep children safe.
https://www.mtstar.org/communitycareprojects
