Dear Editor:

Regarding the Woodard Family Foundation here in Cottage Grove, I would like to give my thanks after working with the Woodard family on many projects.

One of the earliest examples was 1983-1984, while I was Chamber president. The Chamber took on the task of replacing the beautiful Christmas lights and light pole decorations on Main Street. We asked each business to contribute a certain amount to this fund. In late June of that year, the Chamber manager called and said we were almost $1,000 short of meeting the July 1 discount for the decorations.

I thought I would call four business leaders and ask for $250 each to meet the payment deadline. My first call was to Carlton Woodard. I explained the situation; his reply was, “who else have you talked to?” He suggested I call the Daughertys, which I did, and explained Carlton had offered to match the funds. Within 3-4 minutes, I had two contributors for the Christmas decoration fund.

In later years, the Woodards were very instrumental, particularly Joy, in supporting the Humane Society of Cottage Grove, and they are now also helping the Paws and Whiskers Society.

When the Cottage Grove Hospital closed around 2000, the Woodards stepped up to the plate in negotiations with Sacred Heart to build a new hospital in Cottage Grove.

They have been very instrumental in collaborating with the Chamber on projects such as the Welcome Center at the airport. Woodard dollars have supported many beneficial human needs in the community. They have helped and guided Bohemia Mining Days. I’ve always felt that community events bring the town together. It brings tourism and helps businesses survive.

Of the many giving foundations in South Lane County, in my experience, none has given as much over a long period of time as the Woodard Family Foundation has given for the betterment of the community.

My hat is off, and I offer my sincere thanks for the Woodard Foundation’s continued community support.

Don Williams,
Cottage Grove