We are all part of a human community. 

Sometimes we don’t have enough. 

Sometimes we have more than we need.

Nest Share grew out of our experience with both sides of the equation.  The idea is simple.  If you have some space to share, why not share it?

Unique Fundraisers

The John Palmer House is an extravagant example of early Portland architecture.  Our home  is a lovely venue for unique and intimate fundraisers.  Each year we are working with up to twelve local not-for-profit organizations to help them raise funds.  If you would like to explore the use of our space please email maggie at mkolkena[at]thirdthought[dot]com.

Rooms to Share

The Cancer Journey, as anyone who’s been close to it knows, is not for cowards.  We hope  to do a little something to make the journey a bit less arduous.  We have rooms in our home for cancer patients for short stays during their treatment.  We hope that it’s a little homier than a motel.

At the John Palmer House we plan to have three bedrooms for out-of-town radiation and/or chemotherapy patients.

Our Stories

Maggie is the oldest of four children whose mother died of breast cancer at age 39 in 1972.  In addition to the sad emotional journey the family had persistent concerns about money.  Maggie recently completed treatment for breast cancer and is grateful for early detection.

Susan was diagnosed with lymphoma in 2006 and is, happily, in full remission.  Yet, she remembers sitting next to fellow patients in the chemo room at the oncology clinic.  There were some who had traveled from small towns for treatment.  They would either be making a long drive home or taking a taxi to an inexpensive motel.   

Empty Nesters to Nest Sharers?

Baby boomers have a reputation for selfishness.  It’s been my experience that we are ready to help when asked.  I know that we’re not the only ones who open their homes to others.   Maybe you, too, want to share your home.  ‘Junior’s Bedroom’ is an asset you can contribute.

Benefits for You

Good Karma.  Do your part to help those in a rough patch

Purpose in transition.  Being an Empty Nester is a challenging transition.

Discourage ‘boomeranging’

Our Hopes

1) that you will be inspired to share space in your home.  Even once every few months is helpful.

2) that we can share resources and information.

3. 3)that someone is inspired to formalize this site and create a database of Nest Sharers across the country.
   

We’re just getting started here and we look forward to learning and connecting.