Thomas (Tom) DeJardin was recognized for his many years of dedication and hard work.

Smiles and laughter filled the center and courtyard last night as Macdonald Center honored Tom DeJardin both for his service as a Board Member and as one of the Founders of the Center. Tom served on the Board from 1994 until July of 2011 and was the first Director of the Center.  His vision, along with that of Fr. Richard Berg and Mary Sue Richen helped bring Macdonald Center to life 20 years ago.  During his tenure he has seen the Center grow from a dream in the basement of the Downtown Chapel, to building the only Medicaid funded Assisted Living facility in Oregon.  And now, at the end of his direct service, the Macdonald Center is embarking on a new adventure, building a new Center and low-income housing right in the heart of Portland’s Old Town/Chinatown community.  Tom’s knowledge of the community, his guidance and dedication has seen the Center through these changes, but it is his sense of humor that will likely be missed most.

Jeff Yandle, current Board President, Fr. Richard Berg, C.S.C., Macdonald Center’s founder, Pat Janik, current Executive Director and Marylee King, current Center Director all spoke of Tom’s passion for the people we serve.  Fr. Berg and Tom told stories about the early days and the trials of trying to create a non-profit that is truly different and truly makes a difference in the lives of so many.