Union County CARE Program Supports Students and Families Through Collaboration
By Tracy Christopher on Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
UNION COUNTY — Union County’s CARE Program is making a positive difference in the lives of local students and families by providing support, encouragement, and connections to resources. With two dedicated CARE Coordinators—Lenore Case, serving the La Grande School District, and Sheryln Roberts, serving outlying schools across Union County—the program works to ensure children have the tools they need to thrive.
The CARE Program focuses on prevention and early intervention for at-risk youth, offering what’s often called a “no wrong door” approach. By meeting with families to assess needs, CARE Coordinators help connect children and parents with a variety of services, including counseling, housing assistance, medical support, basic needs, and transportation. This collaborative approach helps families navigate complex systems and ensures children receive well-rounded support.
In addition to these vital services, Case and Roberts have worked with countless students by offering positive reinforcement, encouragement, and activities that help build confidence and resilience. Many of these opportunities are made possible thanks to strong partnerships with community organizations such as the Union County Safe Communities Coalition, Soroptimist International of La Grande, the Center for Human Development, and others.
“The goal is always the health, safety, education, and overall well-being of children and parents,” said program supporters. “When families have access to resources and support, positive results happen—not only for the child, but for the entire community.”
The CARE Program has proven to be a powerful model of how schools and community partners can come together to create meaningful change. With Case and Roberts at the helm, Union County families have a trusted place to turn for support, encouragement, and hope for the future.
For more information on the Union County CARE Program, call Lenore Case at 541-805-9355 or Sheryln Roberts at 541-805-5092.
