A Commitment Rooted in Friendship: Zerorez Gives Back 

When Tyler Hamberg helped open a business in Eugene, Oregon in 2016, he had no idea that the first person he’d hire would become one of the most important people in his life. That hire was Berenger Constantino, who has since become one of Tyler’s closest friends. “He’s like a brother to me,” Tyler shared. Unfortunately, Berenger was diagnosed with ALS early in 2025.

Tyler is now with Zerorez Central Washington and Zerorez Bellevue, but the friendship remains strong nearly a decade later. In fact, throughout the month of August, both Zerorez locations are donating 5% of all revenue to ALS Northwest in honor of Berenger. 

Responding to an Unexpected Diagnosis 

Earlier this year, Tyler received the difficult news that Berenger had been diagnosed with ALS. Berenger is 30 years old, an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), newly married and has a one-year-old son. Due to the progression of his ALS diagnosis, Berenger can no longer lift his son. 

“Berenger is just getting started in life,” Tyler said. “It came as such a shock. We wanted to do something to honor him and his family.” 

Berenger had mentioned ALS Northwest and the support his family had received, particularly through the Elinore Nudelman ALS College Savings Program. Through a funded 529 College Savings Plan, this program eases the burden of preparing for higher education. Savings will grow over time to support the educational future of Berenger’s son. That’s how Tyler knew where and why they needed to give. 

“ALS Northwest is directly helping someone we care about,” Tyler shared. “We wanted to get involved because it’s an organization with a tangible local impact.”

“Right now, much of my focus is on making sure my son has every opportunity for a successful future,” Berenger added. “The college support offered by ALS Northwest is an incredible resource and a deeply meaningful benefit.” 

Why August? 

August isn’t just a month on the calendar — it’s Berenger’s birthday month. Now, it holds a deeper significance. 

“To honor him and his family, we’re making this a yearly commitment. Every August, 5% of our revenue will go to ALS Northwest,” Tyler shared.

About Zerorez 

Through a partnership with Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation, Zerorez also donates one free house cleaning each month to someone undergoing cancer treatment or living with a compromised immune system. 

“Giving back is a huge part of who we are,” Tyler explains. “We care about health. We care about families. And when someone close to you is diagnosed with something like ALS, you realize just how much those values matter.” 

Tyler’s commitment to ALS Northwest, driven by love and loyalty to his friend Berenger, shows how one act of kindness can ripple through a community. 

Berenger is grateful for his friend’s support, too. “Organizing this fundraiser and donation is just one of the many ways Tyler has shown his support of my life,” he expressed. “He gave me my first job, encouraged me to earn my college degree, and inspired me to become an EMT. His friendship truly means the world to me.”

About the Elinore Nudelman ALS College Savings Program

This program provides a funded 529 College Savings Plan through the Oregon College Savings Plan for children with a parent or guardian currently living with ALS or who have passed away from the disease. It offers a pathway to educational opportunities, easing the financial burdens that often accompany higher education. 

A 529 College Savings Plan is an investment designed to make saving for college and other educational expenses more manageable. Contributions to the 529 plan grow tax-free, and withdrawals are not taxed when used for qualified educational costs. These costs can include tuition and fees associated with college, apprenticeships, or vocational schools. 

Learn more about the Elinore Nudelman ALS College Savings Program.