Eleven years ago Helping Hands Reentry Outreach Center launched with the goal of changing public perception about the homeless. Since that time, the Seaside-based nonprofit has grown from operating one safe house to eight re-entry homes and a relief center for the homeless. They operate in Seaside, Yamhill, Lincoln and Tillamook counties.

These accomplishments were honored at the outreach center’s event “Angels Among Us” Saturday, Aug. 22 at the Seaside Civic and Convention Center. The celebration, presided over by Executive Director Alan Evans, served as the kickoff for Helping Hands’ “Everyone Has a Story” campaign.

“Every person that we meet has a story, and it’s a painful, unbelievable story of sadness, heartache and lack of resources to change their life,” he said. “We’re hoping to change policy now on how communities deal with their homeless populations.”

The campaign will use data compiled by the organization about the cost of programs and services and who is being helped, as well as videos of interviews with former clients. Evans said the campaign is a critical focus for the organization because it shows the community the true face of homelessness and might help “paint a picture of the possibility of a solution.”

Local performer Miss LuRain Penny entertained the packed house with a cabaret-style presentation full of music and musings. Accompanied by Astoria musician and composer Peter Unander, Miss Penny performed songs based on her life experiences and a personal philosophy that encompasses the ideal of living a life uninvaded by anything except love, she said.

With 201 people in attendance, the Helping Hands surpassed its goal, Development Director Joyce Stuber said.

After Miss Penny’s performance, Helpings Hands was presented with two donations, $3,000 from U.S. Bank Foundation and $20,000 from Providence Seaside Hospital. Attendees also could make one-time donations or long-term commitments.

The convention center then was cleared and set up for a blues concert starring JunkBelly, of Wenatchee, Wash. The concert was alcohol-free and open to the public at no cost. The Boneyard Horns also performed.

The dinner theater was sponsored by Providence Seaside Hospital, U.S. Bank and PacifiCorp. The concert was sponsored by Awakenings by the Sea, the Hi-Tide Ocean Beach Resort and the Ebb-Tide Resort. Numerous community members and groups also contributed to the event.