Left to Right: OASIS volunteers, Lou Saathoff (left) and Linda Gilbert (right) pose with NBA great, Jerome Kiersey (retired) at OASIS fall program.

"My life has taken a giant leap forward!"

After growing up and going to college in Portland, Linda Gilbert was very familiar with the city. When family reasons caused her to make a decision, she knew Vancouver was the place to make her home. She raised her family and completed her career at Southwest Washington Medical Center. She was well established and comfortable there, visiting Portland only when she had a good reason. One of the best reasons for Linda to visit was to volunteer for the Portland Trail Blazers. Volunteering enabled her to become an avid fan, attending most games. This last year, however she found another great reason to cross the river -- her volunteer time for the OASIS Education Center. Using public transportation, she volunteers for OASIS at least once a week and attends programs and classes on a very regular basis. Vancouver classes will make it easier for her to be involved.

"My life has taken a giant leap forward," says Linda. "I love the staff and am fulfilled by helping other participants appreciate the joy of lifelong learning in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere." Recently, Linda's two passions joined forces when retired Blazer player, Jerome Kiersey, visited OASIS to speak about his past Blazer involvement on the court and in his current role as a community spokesperson for the team. "When you open your heart and mind to possibilities, you can have experiences that make life rich, full and so much fun," says Linda. "It happens for me all the time at OASIS!"