Annamae Bryan, Terryn Glenn, Goldie Valentine and Randy Rodahl. (Photo by Cheryl Sharkey.)
After several years of funding a Lower Columbia College scholarship, Columbia River Corvette Club members got to see first hand how their efforts are helping one local woman turn her life around.
The scholarship is just one of several donations made annually by the club from monies raised at the annual Bow-Tie Bash car show. “We work so hard every year on that show,” Bow-Tie Bash Chairman Randy Rodahl said. “It’s great to get a chance to see where the money goes. Those kids are gear-heads, just like us. They’re car people.”
Club members Randy Rodahl, Goldie Valentine, Annamae Bryan, and Cheryl Sharkey met this year’s scholarship recipient, Terryn Glenn, at the November 4th LCC Scholarship Social. They were blown away by the young woman’s resolve to forge a better life for herself and her four children. “It was quite an emotional, awesome experience,” said Annamae Bryan. “I know this lady is going to make it. I feel it in my heart.”
Terryn is completing her second year in Automotive Technology. When she was 14-years old her two uncles challenged her to repair a car. Undaunted, she successfully completed the task and knew right then that she liked working on automobiles. Her dream is to own her own shop one day.
Terryn has been steadfastly working her way through several difficulties, including getting clear of an abusive domestic relationship and providing for four young children. One child is autistic and another has a speech impediment. The dream Terryn has isn’t just about owning a shop, it’s about providing a safe and secure future for her family.
Annamae Bryan was so touched by Terryn’s story that she approached her own employer, Steelscape, about sponsoring Terryn and her four children for Christmas. The wheels started turning and this holiday season is going to be a happy one at the Glenn household. Steelscape is taking care of the children’s Christmas Wish List, as well as some holiday decorations. Bryan and her husband are providing a Thanksgiving dinner, and a friend is contributing centerpieces for both Thanksgiving and Christmas.
“This young woman has pulled herself up by the bootstraps and we are so proud to be able to help her in her efforts,” Bryan added.
“Of the many charities we donate to, the LCC Scholarships and the Lower Columbia School Gardens are two that are near and dear to my heart,” said Goldie Valentine, Charitable Giving Committee Chair. “It’s really rewarding to see how our donations help change lives and help provide a long lasting learning experience.”
