Star Wars ‘Mandalorians’ visit Dougy Center’s kids

See how these motorcycle-riding, costume-wearing characters brought smiles to kids who are dealing with a personal loss during the Holidays …

To the delight of the kids, all clients of “The Dougy Center for Grieving Children”, members of the Mandalorian Mercs Costume Club arrive.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

Although none of them were heard speaking “Mando’a”, the language of the fictional planet Mandalore created by George Lucas as part of the Star Wars films, the Mandalorians who visited The Dougy Center for Grieving Children on December 15 certainly looked authentic.

The children participating in The Dougy Center programs were delighted as two groups roared into the center, located in the Creston-Kenilworth neighborhood.

Even before they get inside The Dougy Center, Kenny looks pumped up by the visit of the Mandalorian Mercs.

Astride motorcycles were members of the Mandalorians Riding Club; and arriving ahead of them, in full battle armor, were a quartet with the Mandalorian Mercs Costume Club.

Inside, “Deuce Mando” greets the families assembled for the festivities.

“Our founding members were ‘nerds at heart’! Realizing their love for motorcycles, and love of Star Wars nerd culture, they founded a club that brings these things together,” explained “Deuce Mando”, who asked we not use his given name.

“Last year, our two clubs got together to help out The Dougy Center; and together this year we’ve raised about $2,000, and are bringing toys here this year as well,” Mando said.

These kids look excited to be receiving toys provided by the Mandalorians.

“As a member of both clubs, the best part of this for me is seeing the excitement and joy on the faces of kids here, and at other nonprofit organizations where we visit kids throughout the year,” exclaimed Victor Souto, who arrived on a motorcycle.

Young Elliott inspects his new toy as his dad, Dan Tracy, looks on.

The visit by the Mandalorians really brightens the Holidays for youngsters who have lost a family member or friend, remarks The Dougy Center’s Development Manager Linda Miles.

“In partnership with Rogue Toys, Excalibur Comics, and the Nerd Out Bar, they’ve been collecting toys and supplies for The Dougy Center this Holiday Season,” the Center’s Development Manager Linda Miles told East Portland News.

“While it seems like everyone enjoys the Star Wars stories, the Mandalorians are especially popular, thanks to a new show on The ‘Disney Plus’ network that also features Baby Yoda,” Miles explained. “Both the financial contribution, as well as the toys and supplies, help sustain our work with grieving children and families in our support groups.”

Members of this Mandalorian Mercs Costume Club pose for a group photo with kids at The Dougy Center.

Learn more about the services of The Dougy Center by visiting their website: CLICK HERE.

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