Ed. 1 Vol. 3

As 2025 winds down, we’re reflecting on the incredible moments, milestones, and people who make Garten Services so special. From inspiring stories at the Garten Gala to dedicated team members like Pete Grell, creative celebrations, and community fundraisers, this edition of The Garten Connection highlights the ways our supporters, staff, and volunteers come together to create opportunity, joy, and meaningful impact for people with disabilities. Dive in to see the stories, events, and programs shaping our community today.

Garten Gala Raises Over $100,000 for Youth Programming

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this year’s Garten Gala. Your generosity helped raise more than $100,000 to strengthen Garten’s Youth Programming, opening the door for more young people with disabilities to learn, grow, and build confidence.

One shining example from the evening was Olivia, who shared her story on stage during a heartfelt interview that moved the room to a standing ovation. Her determination and optimism reflect the spirit that drives our mission forward.

We’re deeply grateful to Oregon State Credit Union, along with every sponsor, guest, and volunteer who made the night a success. Your support has a direct and lasting impact on the lives of the youth we serve.

We’re already looking forward to celebrating with you again next year, so mark your calendars for October 3 at the Salem Convention Center.

Friends of Garten Fundraiser Kicks Off On Giving Tuesday

On December 2, we’re launching our Friends of Garten campaign to support the programs that create meaningful opportunities for people with disabilities. Anyone who becomes a monthly donor will receive an invitation to our March Friends of Garten event and be entered into a raffle featuring thousands of dollars in prizes.

Support from donors like you fuels employment pathways and essential services for the individuals we serve. Our goal is to have over 100 monthly donors by our event. Stay connected on social media or through our newsletter to follow every milestone of the Friends of Garten campaign and see the impact your support makes.

Celebrating Pete Grell: 28 Years of Dedication

After more than 28 years of dedicated service, we honor Pete Grell’s embodiment of Garten’s mission and values.

Pete began his journey with Garten in 1997 and progressed to E-Recycling Manager. Throughout his career, he led with compassion, integrity, and a steadfast belief in creating opportunities for people of all abilities.

He cared deeply for his team, always taking the time to mentor, support, and encourage growth. Pete’s leadership has left a lasting impact on our e-recycling operations and on the countless lives he’s touched over the years.

Thank you, Pete, for your dedication, hard work, and heart. Your legacy of kindness, teamwork, and commitment to our mission will continue to inspire us all. Congratulations on a well-deserved retirement!

Halloween at Garten: Creativity in Full Costume

We believe Halloween is all about creativity, connection, and community. It’s a time for everyone to share a laugh, express themselves, and celebrate together. From spooky to silly, classic to quirky, every outfit brings its own bit of magic to the season.

This year, our team fully embraced the fun. They showed off their personalities, built lasting memories, and added even more joy to the Garten community.

Salem’s Got Talent Raises Over $1,000 for Garten

In just a few short months, our city came together to bring Salem’s Got Talent to life, raising over $1,000 for Garten programs. While the stage lights may be dimming on the 2025 show, we’re already looking forward to an even bigger and better event in 2026!

A huge thank you to Miss Salem, Oregon for America Strong (Luna Mariah Dietz), Charles Shambry, E-Z Flow Plumbing, and the entire Salem’s Got Talent team for hosting such an unforgettable evening. The incredible talent left us all with goosebumps, and we can’t wait to see what next year brings!

Celebrating NDEAM and the AbilityOne Program

Every October, we honor National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), celebrating the contributions of workers with disabilities and the impact of inclusive employment.

This year, Garten highlighted the AbilityOne Program, showing how it turns opportunity into lasting success. Through real stories and behind-the-scenes insights, our October blog series showcased the people, programs, and partnerships shaping a more inclusive workforce.

Upcoming Fundraisers: Support Garten Services

E-Z Flow Plumbing Raffle

E-Z Flow Plumbing is hosting a fundraiser to benefit Garten Services! They’re raffling off 10 Milwaukee Heated Jackets (with batteries)—perfect for the cold weather. Tickets are $5 each, and there’s no limit on how many you can buy. To purchase tickets, message @ezflowsalem on Instagram. Winners will be announced at the end of the month.

Glow Oregon with the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes

Join us for Garten’s Glow Oregon fundraiser night on Thursday, December 11! For every ticket purchased, 20% of the proceeds will be donated back to Garten Services to support our mission.

Until Next Time

As 2025 comes to a close, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible moments, milestones, and people who make Garten Services such a vibrant community. Every story highlights the impact of connection, opportunity, and support. 

Thank you to everyone—donors, volunteers, partners, and community members—who help make our mission possible. Together, we’re creating meaningful opportunities, celebrating successes, and building a more inclusive future for people with disabilities.

Until next time, keep growing with us!