EDITOR’S NOTE: The family has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support as they navigate through grief during the holidays, and would like to exten a deep appreciation for this community. See below for a list of how you can help support Animal Haven by the Sea, Malia Blackmon and Lee’s parents; Fundraising events will be announced as they are shared with us. The best way to help right now is with donations directly to Animal Haven by the Sea or to First Security Bank in Manzanita.
My family and I first met Lee Blackmon as the new, fun youth soccer coach who happened to show up to a practice about twelve years ago. He was so much more than that.
Lee Blackmon was a champion for the under-served, underdog, and under-loved. The true compassion that he showed for people and animals was on a Biblical level.
Life has a way of conditioning most of us to believe that “one person can’t make a difference”. Lee fearlessly charged into Tillamook County and shattered that notion: First on his own — but soon by developing a band of rescue-rangers, warriors, and real-life angels that worked to help any animal or person in need.
May we all carry forward Lee’s spirit of service and duty as we support Lee’s family, each other, and our animals as we try to heal.
Thank you, Lee, for your kindness and for the lessons you taught us all without even trying. Tillamook County is a better place because you chose to live here and perform your heart-felt magic in service to others.
Special appreciation goes to all the caring warriors of the Nehalem Bay area during the past week including our local clergy, healing community, and other helpers who have comforted us and continue to do so.
Phil Chick, Mayor, City of Nehalem
There are fundraising events in the planning stages, and if you would like to hold an event in the future, please contact us at theleeblackmonfoundation@gmail.com or care@animalhavenbythesea.org, so it can be shared with our supporters.
Thank you to R&R Espresso for their fundraiser.
Here are ways you can help:
1) Make a donation at the First Security Bank in Manzanita
2) Make a donation directly on the rescue website: animalhavenbythesea.org
3) Make a donation at one of the local businesses who have donation jars
4) Make a payment directly to Nehalem Animal Healing Clinic
5) Make a donation directly on the day to day bills for water and electricity
6) Make a donation to the United Methodist Church to help with food for both our two legged and four legged friends
7) Attend a fundraising event
The Manzanita Lighthouse, located at 36480 Highway 101 N, Nehalem, is collecting donations for Animal Haven by the Sea. This cause is very dear to us. Any support you can give is sincerely appreciated.