Foundation story

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Jerome Kersey will always be known as a Portland Trail Blazer, but his generous involvement with local charities left a lasting legacy in the community. His favorite fans were the smallest ones, giving much of his time as a Trail Blazer Alumni Ambassador for the Children’s Cancer Association and the Boys and Girls Club.

The inspiration for the foundation comes from Jerome’s widow, Teri Kersey and her sister, Alanna Mandrou. With a background in dentistry, Teri and Alanna wanted to combine their experience with their passion to honor Jerome’s legacy.

Loved by the Portland community, both Jerome and Teri consistently gave of their time and resources to benefit others. Jerome’s genuine smile and ability to connect with people on a personal level is a hallmark of his legacy. In fact, the famous Kersey smile was a catalyst behind forming the Foundation to serve the dental needs of children in our community.