One of our favorite First Tech’s legacy community campaigns is here again! Season of Giving, where employees and members are invited to help direct end of year giving, is giving Hacienda the opportunity to win $10,000. These funds are extremely valuable to help further our mission. The five nonprofit organizations who receive the most write in nominations will each receive a $10,000 grant of unrestricted funds.

The Season of Giving campaign runs from November 1st through the 30th.  All we are asking you to do is to fill out this short survey - it really is short, promise! – and nominate Hacienda at the end.

The information the survey asks about Hacienda is the following:

Name: Hacienda Community Development Corporation

City: Portland

State: Oregon

 Thank you to First Tech members, employees and community supporters who make these opportunities possible.

#FirstTechFed #FirstTechGives

Nomination Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SOG24

Take this short community survey or sign up for a focus group. Your answers will be anonymous.

Your opinion matters! Take our survey or sign up for a focus group for a chance to win a $100 Visa Gift Card! Your responses and personal information will be kept anonymous.

¡Tu opinión es importante! ¡Participa en nuestra encuesta o inscríbete en un grupo de enfoque para tener la oportunidad de ganar una tarjeta de regalo Visa de $100! Tus respuestas y tu información personal se mantendrán anónimas. 

Please take the short survey here.

Si desea realizar la encuesta en español, haga clic aquí

We also have two focus groups you can join virtually to have your voice heard.

También tenemos dos grupos focales a los que puede unirse virtualmente para que se escuche su voz.

November 11th, at 12:00pm

Click Here to Sign up and Get Zoom Link

Da Click Aqui Para Participar en Zoom

November 13th, at 2:00 pm

Click Here to Sign Up and Get Zoom Link

Da Click Aqui Para Participar en Zoom

Meet us in person

Encuéntramos en vivo

Thursday, November 14

Jueves el 14 de Noviembre

9:00am - 10:00am

Food Bank

Las Adelitas Community Room

6735 NE Killingsworth St

Portland, OR 97218

Over the past few days, false information about Hacienda CDC and one of our downpayment assistance programs has rapidly circulated in conservative media, tabloid websites, and social media. 

To be clear, we do not discriminate against anyone and serve all Oregonians equally. 

The truth is important, so we are sharing the following facts about the programming in question:

1. Through a pilot program for 21 homebuyers, Hacienda distributes mortgage down payment assistance funded through Business Oregon. This is part of the Economic Equity Investment Program (Oregon Senate Bill 1579), which aims to build economic stability, self-sufficiency, wealth-building, and economic equity among disadvantaged individuals, families, businesses, and communities in the State. The program does not exclude U.S. citizens.
   

2. Participants need to be Oregon taxpayers with a mortgage pre-approved by a bank or credit union and meet two out of five risk factors outlined by the program governed by State Statute and RGA requirements. These include:

• Experience of discrimination because of race or ethnicity

• English language proficiency 

• Citizenship status 

• Socioeconomic status

• Residence or operation in a rural location   

A community flyer we created misstated these program requirements. 

For 32 years, Hacienda CDC has been advancing the health, livability and progress of all Oregonians, regardless of their race or ethnicity. Our mission is to strengthen families by providing affordable housing, homeownership support, economic advancement, and educational opportunities, focusing on creating inclusive pathways to success. 

We ask our community to help in sharing these facts with others. Thank you for being so supportive as we respond to this false information.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ernesto Fonseca
Chief Executive Officer
Hacienda CDC

This gift will support the development of Dolores with 67 new affordable homes in hillsboro.

PORTLAND, Ore., June 10, 2024 — Hacienda Community Development Corporation is pleased to announce that the U.S. Bank Foundation has awarded the organization a $400,000 multiyear U.S. Bank Foundation Opportunity Fund grant. This gift will support the development of Dolores, a $41.3 million development with 67 affordable homes (a mix of 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom apartments).

“It is only with the help of our valued partners like the U.S. Bank Foundation that we can deliver on our mission of strengthening families, beginning with housing,” said Ernesto Fonseca, CEO, Hacienda CDC. “Dolores will bring more than just affordable homes to Hillsboro. This will be a community that provides what individuals and families need to find stability and reach their goals.”

Hacienda is Dolores’s sponsor, developer, owner and resident services provider - this will be its first affordable housing development in Washington County. Hillsboro has a population of 106,633; of those, 24% identify as Latino, and 37% identify as BIPOC. A majority of those living below the poverty line and rent burdened in Washington County are BIPOC. Dolores will serve 67 LMI households: 40% will be affordable to households earning 30% of Area Median Income (AMI) and below; and 60% to households earning 60% AMI and below. Ten apartments will be dedicated to permanent supportive housing. The development project began in May 2023 and anticipates opening in September 2026.

“Expanding access to affordable housing helps children, families and communities thrive. Supporting organizations like Hacienda Community Development Corporation means more people will have increased options for finding a safe, stable place to call home,” said Meghan Valley, community affairs manager at U.S. Bank.

The U.S. Bank Foundation created the Opportunity Fund in 2023 to support organizations working to increase wealth-building opportunities for underserved communities, including low- to moderate-income communities, rural communities and communities of color. The fund currently prioritizes grants toward community development financial institutions (CDFIs); small business technical assistance and business incubators; affordable housing development; homeownership and down payment assistance; and digital access and economic development in rural and Native American communities.

For more information about Hacienda CDC and its programs, visit haciendacdc.org

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About Hacienda CDC

Founded in 1992 in Portland’s Cully neighborhood, Hacienda CDC is a trusted community-building corporation supporting diverse and historically underserved communities throughout urban and rural Oregon. Hacienda strengthens low-income adults, families and youth, with an emphasis on immigrants and communities of color, through our affordable housing and culturally adept programs and services. Hacienda’s innovative approaches, high-impact partnerships, and advocacy for systemic change expand opportunities for community members to thrive and achieve their dreams of home ownership, entrepreneurship and education. Learn more at haciendacdc.org

About U.S. Bancorp

U.S. Bancorp, with more than 70,000 employees and $684 billion in assets as of March 31, 2024, is the parent company of U.S. Bank National Association. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company serves millions of customers locally, nationally and globally through a diversified mix of businesses including consumer banking, business banking, commercial banking, institutional banking, payments and wealth management. U.S. Bancorp has been recognized for its approach to digital innovation, community partnerships and customer service, including being named one of the 2024 World’s Most Ethical Companies and Fortune’s most admired superregional bank. Learn more at usbank.com/about

This program is built to help businesses and their communities thrive with a focus on economic growth.

Overview: Hacienda CDC, a community development corporation dedicated to providing affordable housing, economic advancement, and educational opportunities, is seeking proposals from experienced nonprofit strategic planning consultants. This engagement aims to guide Hacienda CDC through a comprehensive strategic planning process, ensuring the organization's continued growth and impact in the communities we serve.

About Hacienda CDC:

Founded in 1992, Hacienda CDC is committed to strengthening families by providing affordable housing and opportunities for educational and economic advancement. Our programs focus on housing development, homeownership support, economic development, and youth and family services. We are passionate about creating vibrant, diverse, and resilient communities.

Eligibility:

We seek consultants with extensive experience in collaborating with diverse social impact entities, including social enterprises, community development corporations, and multifaceted organizations, to craft adaptive and enduring strategic plans. Preference will be given to consultants who have demonstrated proficiency in partnering with culturally specific nonprofit organizations and navigating cross-cultural team dynamics.

Our Request for Proposal aims to solicit submissions from seasoned strategic planning consultants capable of engaging with Hacienda’s Strategic Planning Committe, Board, staff, and community stakeholders. The selected consultant will collaborate closely with the Strategic Planning Committee and CEO to oversee all project activities to fruition.

Please view the full Request for Proposal here.

For further questions and proposal submission, please contact Diana Nunez: Director of Philanthropy and Strategic Partnerships at dnunez@haciendacdc.org

Grant program supports affordable housing and community development.

Portland, ORE., May 23, 2024– Hacienda Community Development Corporation is pleased to announce that Wells Fargo and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines) have awarded them a $100,000 grant from the FHLB Des Moines Member Impact Fund. This matching grant program, which was introduced in 2023, provides nearly $20 million to eligible organizations in order to strengthen communities in targeted areas of the FHLB Des Moines district. In 2024 FHLB Des Moines increased the Member Impact Fund by $10 million. 

“The Federal Home Loan Banks grants are both a windfall and a recognition that we are doing things right and we are serving our communities well,” says Ernesto Fonseca, CEO of Hacienda. “We are truly grateful for this $100,000 grant from Wells Fargo. They are a visionary partner that understands that developing affordable housing and delivering services to the community depend on a network of roles and needs that this grant will help us fund.” 

Hacienda will use the funds received from Wells Fargo for multiple purposes that will allow it to fulfill activities and responsibilities not covered by traditional funding sources. Hacienda will undergo its strategic review process this year, and these funds will help build the vision and strategy that will maximize opportunity and innovation in the organization’s next iteration of affordable housing, economic opportunity, and youth and family services. 

“Far too many people are facing housing instability. Some households pay half or more of their income on housing and the number of families who are struggling to achieve home ownership is on the rise," said Elizabeth Lorenzo, Senior Community Impact & Sustainability Specialist at Wells Fargo. “As the Bank of Doing, Wells Fargo is committed to working with organizations like Hacienda CDC to help increase access to housing, which is the foundation for wellness, dignity, and economic opportunity.” 

FHLB Des Moines provides funding solutions and liquidity to more than 1,200 members to support mortgage lending, economic development and affordable housing in the communities they serve. The Member Impact Fund provides $3 for every $1 of an eligible FHLB Des Moines member's grant donation to strengthen the ability of not-for-profits or government entities to serve the affordable housing or community development needs of their communities. The Member Impact Fund awards are given in partnership with member financial institutions to communities in their district to become more vibrant places to live and work.  

The Member Impact Fund is just one-way FHLB Des Moines enables our members to connect directly with local organizations who matter to them, creating value and a lasting impact in their own communities,” said Kris Williams, president and CEO of FHLB Des Moines. “The commitment of members like Wells Fargo and their connections to organizations like Hacienda CDC help advance the positive work being done in its community.”   

The Member Impact Fund matching program is available to organizations located in Hawaii, Montana, North Dakota, Oregon, Guam, American Samoa and the Northern Mariana Islands. Member institutions in these locations submitted applications in February and March 2024; funds were distributed directly to the member institution, which then provide the funding alongside a matching grant from FHLB Des Moines for the partner/recipient organization. 

Recipient organizations were selected based on the needs for grant funding to support capacity-building or working capital necessary to strengthen their ability to serve affordable housing or community development needs, including training, predevelopment assistance, management information systems or software, strategic planning, market study or community needs assessment, and working capital. 

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About Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines 

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines is deeply committed to strengthening communities, serving 13 states and three U.S Pacific territories as a member-owned cooperative. We work together with over 1,200 member institutions to support affordable housing, economic development and community improvement.  

FHLB Des Moines is one of 11 regional Banks that make up the Federal Home Loan Bank System. Members include community and commercial banks, credit unions, insurance companies, thrifts and community development financial institutions. The FHLB Des Moines is wholly owned by its members and receives no taxpayer funding. For additional information about FHLB Des Moines, please visit www.fhlbdm.com. 

About Hacienda CDC 

Hacienda CDC was formed in 1986 to provide necessary housing and supportive services in NE Portland’s Cully neighborhood. At that time, Cully was home to the largest Latino population in Oregon. Since then, Hacienda has grown to provide affordable housing in 10 communities in Northwest Oregon and provide supportive services to over 1500 individuals, children, and families.  

As Portland’s Latino population has grown rapidly, Hacienda continues building capacity to offer our bicultural services to Latinos and other low-income families. Hacienda embraces a holistic approach, providing culturally specific services that provide opportunities to access needed resources like growing or starting a business, and buying a first home. Hacienda is Oregon’s largest Latino-led, Latino-serving housing organization and remains a trusted name in the community. Learn more at haciendacdc.org. 

Funding presented in partnership with the FHLB Des Moines boosts critical work of Habitat for Humanity Portland Region, Hacienda CDC, AGE+ and The Freshwater Trust

PORTLAND, Ore., May 16, 2024 — OnPoint Community Credit Union, in partnership with Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines today announced a $600,000 Member Impact Fund grant to four Oregon nonprofits dedicated to affordable housing and environmental conservation. The recipients are Habitat for Humanity Portland Region, Hacienda CDC, AGE+ and The Freshwater Trust.

Each organization will use its funding to enhance vital community development projects across the region. The four nonprofits receiving this funding were selected by OnPoint based on their current needs in the housing and community development space.

“Each of these organizations plays a pivotal role in fostering stability, growth and resilience in our region,” said Rob Stuart, President and CEO of OnPoint Community Credit Union. “This funding is a critical step towards enhancing the quality of life in the communities we serve. We are proud to partner with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines to provide these grants and invest in a brighter, more sustainable future for all Oregonians.”

How FHLB funding works

The FHLB Des Moines is a government sponsored enterprise that supports both mortgage lending and related community investment, with more than 1,200 member institutions. OnPoint’s membership means that for every dollar it donates, the FHLB Des Moines donates $3. This helps the credit union maximize its support of local nonprofits focused on economic development, affordable housing and conservation.

FHLB Des Moines’s matching grant program, which was introduced in 2023, will provide nearly $20 million to eligible organizations to strengthen communities in Oregon, Hawaii, Montana, North Dakota, Guam, American Samoa and the Northern Mariana Islands this year. In 2024, FHLB Des Moines increased the available grant money in its Member Impact Fund by $10 million.

“We are thrilled to see grants from our Member Impact Fund having a direct, positive impact on communities in Oregon, advancing affordable housing and community development needs in a meaningful way,” said Kris Williams, President and CEO of FHLB Des Moines.

Below are details on each of the nonprofits receiving these grants thanks to OnPoint and the FHBL Member Impact Fund partnership:

Habitat for Humanity Portland Region has built and repaired homes for over 3,000 people with low incomes across the region since 1981. Habitat has over 100 affordable housing units across the Portland Metro region under construction this year, but currently lacks the required construction support to meet the growing demand for housing. Through the Member Impact fund grant, Habitat Portland Region will receive $100,000 to add more support to help build and repair more homes.

“OnPoint Community Credit Union is a growing partner that enhances our work in many ways including volunteerism and vital funding. We are so thankful for this incredible $100,000 grant from OnPoint in collaboration with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines. This funding will allow us to hire Americorps positions that will help us grow our volunteer engagement and build more homes throughout the Portland region,” said Steve Messinetti, CEO and President, Habitat for Humanity Portland Region.

Hacienda CDC is Oregon’s largest Latino-led, Latino-serving housing organization. Since 1992, it has developed 12 affordable housing communities and served 2,400 people across Portland, Gresham, Molalla and Oregon City. OnPoint has provided financial support to Hacienda CDC since 2015, including donating $5,000 to the Portland Mercado Relief Fund to help vendors from its business development program affected by a fire. Hacienda CDC’s $200,000 Member Impact Fund grant will go toward the development of its new 122-unit affordable housing project in Hillsboro.

“In Hacienda’s experience, developing affordable housing is a community effort that gets us to the finish line. For example, our Dolores Affordable Housing Project was awarded through a competitive process, which included land from the City of Hillsboro and $10.5 million of capital from Portland, Oregon’s Metro Housing Bond, among several other funding sources. Even with all this support, we still have a funding gap. This investment from OnPoint will be instrumental in bridging that gap and ensuring a commitment to affordable housing in Washington County. We are truly grateful for this community partnership with OnPoint.” said Ernesto Fonseca, CEO, Hacienda CDC.

AGE+ advocates for equitable aging in Oregon by engaging in partnerships and developing innovative programs that build capacity and address the challenges and opportunities of the aging population. AGE+ has developed a creative solution that supports housing-challenged rural communities in building affordable, accessible housing for older residents. AGE+ will use its $200,000 Member Impact Fund grant to replicate their success and share their expertise with communities so more older Oregonians have a place to call home.

“This collaboration with OnPoint is a testament to our mutual dedication to innovation and equity for underserved communities. These funds ensure AGE+ can continue to roll out its modular construction approach of affordable accessible housing for older adults in a rural community, still recovering devastating wildfires,” said Stephanie Hooper, AGE+, President & CEO.

The Freshwater Trust employs advanced technology and scientific expertise to restore and protect freshwater ecosystems. The Freshwater Trust provides capacity for local groups like water districts and farmer collectives to secure and prioritize funding for high-impact conservation projects, such as upgrading irrigation systems, planting trees to provide shade and lower water temperature, and aid the recovery of endangered species. The Freshwater Trust will receive a $100,000 Member Impact Fund grant to build more capacity for its various conservation initiatives.

“This generous donation from OnPoint represents an investment in a new approach to conservation. We need to have laser focus on solutions that are big enough – and bold enough – to match the scale of the problem. The Freshwater Trust is creating a path that ensures every action translates to a positive outcome for the environment and it’s possible because of the support of organizations like OnPoint. Our mission is to preserve and restore freshwater ecosystems and we are grateful to have them as a partner,” said Kimberlee Obilana, Vice President, People & Operations, The Freshwater Trust.

ABOUT ONPOINT’S COMMUNITY GIVING

OnPoint provides funding for nonprofits, local government-sponsored projects, educational institutions and foundations that positively impact its membership area. In 2023, OnPoint donated more than $2.5 million donated to 305 nonprofits in Oregon and Southwest Washington focused on diversity, equity and inclusion, financial education, food and shelter, climate change and youth services. For more information about OnPoint’s community giving efforts, visit https://www.onpointcu.com/community-giving/.

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 554,000 members and with assets of $9 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

ABOUT FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK OF DES MOINES

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines is deeply committed to strengthening communities, serving 13 states and three U.S Pacific territories as a member-owned cooperative. We work together with over 1,200 member institutions to support affordable housing, economic development and community improvement.

FHLB Des Moines is one of 11 regional Banks that make up the Federal Home Loan Bank System. Members include community and commercial banks, credit unions, insurance companies, thrifts and community development financial institutions. FHLB Des Moines is wholly owned by its members and receives no taxpayer funding. For additional information about FHLB Des Moines, please visit www.fhlbdm.com.

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The cutting-edge, community-driven Verizon Community Forward initiative creates opportunities for digital access and workforce development, STEM education, digital literacy, and entrepreneurial learning               

PORTLAND, Ore., May 3, 2024 — Adults and youth in Southeast Portland have access to new and vital connections to cutting-edge technology, STEM education, and career development opportunities with the launch of a community-driven learning center at Portland Community College. The community is invited for an open house at the new learning center on May 8 from 3:00 to 7:00PM.         

The Verizon Community Forward Jade District Learning Center, one of three centers launched by Verizon in partnership with Hacienda CDC, intends to remove barriers between low-income Portlanders and the tech resources they need to succeed in a digital world. These learning centers are designed for all ages, with high-speed internet access, advanced technology, and educational and career programming. This location on Portland Community College’s southeast campus will reach traditional and nontraditional students with an increasingly diverse population.

"Everyone deserves access to the technology and resources they need to be successful in today’s digital world,” says Rudy Reyes, West Region Vice President & Deputy General Counsel at Verizon. “On behalf of Verizon, we are proud of our partnership with Hacienda to enable both youth and adults to develop the skills, knowledge and capabilities for a more promising future in the Portland community."

In partnership with Verizon, Hacienda CDC was selected to support the development of three learning centers in Portland. Open to students, community members and the public, the centers are in spaces that cater to different demographics: at Hacienda’s headquarters in Cully, mostly BIPOC youth and adults; at New Columbia, mostly high school students, and at Portland Community College’s Southeast Campus, a diverse student body and community.

“More than 60% of the families Hacienda serves in its affordable housing and programs access the internet only through their smartphones. That’s a huge barrier when you’re trying to participate in school, fill out a job application, or manage your business only through your phone,” said Ernesto Fonseca, CEO, Hacienda CDC. “Latinos, who are a large portion of families served by Hacienda, are among the communities who are under-resourced when it comes to technology. They make up only 8% of STEM workers despite being 18.5% of the U.S. population.”

Known for developing affordable housing throughout metro Portland, Hacienda takes a holistic approach to building communities that goes beyond housing. The new Verizon Community Forward learning centers exemplify how Hacienda’s programs and pathways remove barriers to education, careers, and wealth building for low-income families — especially for Latinos and communities of color who historically have been shut out of opportunities.

Everyday challenges continue to magnify the barriers that low-income households face — such as not having internet or devices at home— which unfairly limit their opportunities to succeed at school and at work.      

“Thanks to Verizon and a partnership with Hacienda, the learning center will help increase digital access, literacy and STEM learning opportunities for low-income families and communities,” said PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings. “PCC is Oregon’s largest post-secondary institution and one of the most diverse institutions in the state. With a focus on equitable student access and success, it is our mission to drive outreach and support for underrepresented populations. This is just another example of that effort.”

The Verizon Community Forward Learning Centers are helping Hacienda remove those barriers with advanced tech including computers, 3D printers, audio/video recording tools, and more. These resources are coupled with programming offered through partners like Portland Community College, Free Geek and iUrban Teen that will help community members use the space and launch opportunities — whether that’s learning to use a computer, developing critical STEM skills and connections to secondary education, or launching a new career or small business.

Schools and community groups who want to participate in programming opportunities at the Verizon Community Forward learning centers or learn more should visit haciendacdc.org/community.

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About Verizon    

Citizen Verizon is the company’s responsible business plan for economic, environmental and social advancement. Citizen Verizon empowers Verizon to deliver on its mission to move the world forward through action by expanding digital access and resources, protecting the climate, and ensuring people have the skills needed for jobs of the future. Through Citizen Verizon, and the key pillars of Digital Inclusion, Climate Protection and Human Prosperity, the company's responsible business goals include providing 10 million youths with digital skills training by 2030, supporting 1 million small businesses with resources to help them thrive in the digital economy by 2030, achieving net zero emissions in its operations by 2035, and preparing 500,000 individuals for jobs of the future by 2030. Learn more at CitizenVerizon.com.      

About Verizon Community Forward

Verizon Community Forward works with local non-profit partners to create innovative learning spaces in community centers, powered by 5G.  Verizon Community Forward expands existing local education resources around the country to deliver education and skills training needed to prepare youth and adults for the digital economy and jobs of the future. There are nine Verizon Community Forward learning centers in 4 cities: Portland, Pittsburgh, Houston and Cleveland.

About Hacienda CDC

Hacienda CDC was formed in 1986 to provide necessary housing and supportive services in NE Portland’s Cully neighborhood. At that time, Cully was home to the largest Latino population in Oregon. Since then, Hacienda has grown to provide affordable housing in 10 communities in Northwest Oregon and provide supportive services to over 1500 individuals, children, and families.

As Portland’s Latino population has grown rapidly, Hacienda continues building capacity to offer our bicultural services to Latinos and other low-income families. Hacienda embraces a holistic approach, providing culturally specific services that provide opportunities to access needed resources like growing or starting a business, and buying a first home. Hacienda is Oregon’s largest Latino-led, Latino-serving housing organization and remains a trusted name in the community.

About Portland Community College

Founded in 1961, Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 50,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

Visit PCC news at www.news.pcc

Made up of local leaders with diverse interests, skills, and backgrounds, OCF’s board of directors provides guidance for strategic planning, financial stewardship, initiatives and grantmaking. 

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Community Foundation’s Board of Directors has two new members who bring extensive experience in community engagement and housing development. Karis Stoudamire-Phillips is the Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Community Initiatives at Moda Health and Delta Dental of Oregon. Ernesto Fonseca is CEO of Hacienda Community Development Corporation, a long-time OCF partner that strengthens families by providing affordable housing, homeownership support, economic advancement and educational opportunities. After a unanimous vote, Stoudamire-Phillips and Fonseca join the 15-member board that oversees Oregon’s statewide community foundation.

"On behalf of Oregon Community Foundation Board of Directors, I welcome Karis and Ernesto into this exciting evolution of philanthropic potential in Oregon,” said Lane Shetterly, Board Chair of Oregon Community Foundation. “New leadership means new opportunities for discovery and meaningful impact in a state hungry for positive change in Oregonian’s daily lives.” 

"The foundation’s next stage of growth will depend upon our ability to bring Oregonians together around the state to deliver bold solutions with innovative resources,” said Lisa Mensah, President and CEO of Oregon Community Foundation. “Karis and Ernesto bring tremendous experience and insight to advance our work.”

Stoudamire-Phillips and Fonseca replace former board chair Kimberly Cooper and board member Patrick Criteser, who both served 8 years on the OCF Board of Directors. 

Karis Stoudamire-Phillips is a native of Portland. In her role at Moda Health and Delta Dental of Oregon, she develops, directs and implements community engagement strategies and action plans throughout Oregon and Alaska. She works to increase workforce and corporate cultural diversity, equity and inclusion, while ensuring product offerings across all businesses meet the needs of a diverse customer population. 

She has served on OCF’s Portland Metro Leadership Council since 2017, becoming chair in 2023. She also played pivotal advisory roles for OCF in the Albina Arts Community Visioning Committee and Connecting to Black Communities.

Ernesto Fonseca joined Hacienda as CEO in April 2017, bringing his passion for community development and a belief in the power of connecting families to opportunity. 

Ernesto’s own story reflects the potential that can be unleashed by investing in all our community members. Raised in central Mexico, Ernesto watched his parents take advantage of educational opportunities and their own initiative to build careers in construction and nursing. They passed on their values of hard work and education to their children, and Ernesto embraced those values to gain a foothold in this country by initially working in kitchens and restaurants as he pursued his educational goals, culminating with a Ph.D. from Arizona State University in Environmental Design and Planning. 

His extensive board service includes Northwest Outward Bound School, The Prosperity Agenda, Housing Oregon, Energy Trust of Oregon and Two Worlds Community Foundation. He also services in an advisory capacity to ASU Stardust Center for Affordable Homes & the Family. 

Since 1973, the Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In partnership with donors and volunteers, OCF strengthens communities in every county in Oregon through grantmaking, scholarships and research. In 2023, OCF distributed $225 million in grants and scholarships. Individuals, families, businesses, and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them.

To learn more, please visit oregoncf.org

Thanks to the support of the Zera Foundation and partnership with Adventure Without Limits, youth and families within Youth and Family Services participated in outdoor trips such as snowshoeing at Mount Hood.

Read firsthand about the López Gómez family, active participants of Sembrando Semillitas, and their experience making valuable memories.

by familia López Gómez

_______

It was a Saturday of family fun that gave us the opportunity to appreciate nature. While interacting with others and sharing nature at the same time we were able to interact with other people and share pleasant moments contemplating the snow and enjoying various weather changes at times.

We arrived at the meeting point to get on the bus that took us to the mountain and everything was very organized.

Since everything went in a very organized way, during the trip we were able to talk with other families. With other families, we also felt very comfortable because the organization was in charge of providing us with adequate equipment. The organization took care of providing us with some appropriate clothing for the occasion. When we arrived at the place, we were given the corresponding indications and the necessary equipment for the snow hike.

“On behalf of the López Gómez family, we would like to thank the Sembrando Semillitas program for providing this opportunity for family fun and resources to make it possible.”

We had a very nice day; my family was really happy! They very much liked to observe the view of the mountain and the small river that crossed through there.

We were also able to observe different weather changes! In some moments we could feel the sun’s rays and at other moments and other moments, we felt the wind running as well as a little snowfall. It was absolutely beautiful. We enjoyed it so much! We also had fun times as the kids were playing with the snow and funny moments where we slipped and fell in the snow but without any complications... everything was very nice!

On behalf of the López Gómez family, we would like to thank the Sembrando Semillitas program for providing this opportunity for family fun and resources to make it possible! We would also like to thank you for helping us as families spend a relaxing and joyful time with our children and get out of the daily routine; encouraging family unity! Thank you!

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These outdoor outings were made possible with the support of the Zera Foundation and Adventures Without Limits. Thank you for helping our youth and families create lasting memories!

Hacienda’s children’s soccer team, Los Lobitos, has a second generation in our Plaza de Los Robles community thanks to the hard work and dedication of our coach, Jose Guadalupe Vazquez, and our Youth & Family Services team.

Read more of Jose’s story and what this team of Los Lobitos means to him, our youth and their families, and the community at large.

by coach Jose Guadalupe Vazquez

_______

The Lobitos’s story began 2 years and 3 months ago, when one day back in April 2022 we met and started to train and to play as a team. During this time, we had several games and we have participated in several tournaments, in some, we have done very well and in others not so much, but we continue learning. 

But now it is worth telling the story of the second generation of Lobitos.

During the games it has been very satisfying to see the families living together and supporting the team, that is where we realized that we have several small children who get very excited when they celebrate a goal from their brothers' team.

One day, during a gathering we had on the beach with all the families on the team, I saw that there were small children about the same age, and I commented “I think there are several children with whom we could put together another team” and the small children who when they heard it, they jumped and said “Yes, we want to play too.”

And it is incredible to see how the youngest children, sometimes in their innocence, believe that they can help the team. I remember that one time they were not winning the game. We were all distressed that their shots were not coming out, that their tactics and moves were not functioning, and they were not scoring goals. A younger brother of a child on the team told me, grabbing his head with his little hands, “coach, take my brother out and put me in, I play better than him.” I smiled and told him, then hurry up and grow up, and he very seriously said yes.

“This would be their first experience as a team, we knew that we might not have good results, but it didn’t matter, at that age I think the most important thing is to play and have fun.”

Another day a little girl told me “Coach, when is the team coming?” and she pointed to herself to indicate to me that she was referring to the youngest children's team, and from that time on, she asked me the same thing every time she saw me. Until one day it happened. I spoke with the second coach and father of one of the children on the team to ask him if he would be interested in coaching the youngest team. He accepted the ask. So, we had to adjust with the names, the big kids' team is now Lobos and the little kids kept the name Lobitos.

On the first Tuesday of August, Lobitos training began, and 11 children between 7 and 9 years old showed up. Oh, by the way, they are all brothers of the Lobos. In the second week, a girl asked: “Coach, when are we going to play a game?”  and everyone was excited to know that maybe it would be soon.

The children hadn't even been training for a month, but they had a huge desire to compete. So, they invited us to a tournament and we asked if there was a category for the little ones, and luckily for us there was. We talked about it with the parents and although there were doubts that perhaps it was too early to compete, they accepted. This would be their first experience as a team, we knew that we might not have good results, but it didn't matter, at that age I think the most important thing is to play and have fun.

“We had fun, we enjoyed their enthusiasm, and they made us very happy that day, I think we will remember it as the best Sunday we have ever had.”

Result of the day, Lobos won 3-0 and Lobitos won 2-1 in their first match, and they were losing 1-0, but their emotion, their dedication and their desire to win made them turn the score around, between kicks, falls, pushes, plays and tears. We had fun, we enjoyed their enthusiasm, and they made us very happy that day, I think we will remember it as the best Sunday we have ever had.

Our Sunday is about getting up early, carrying chairs, water, uniforms, shin guards, balls, and everything to go see our Lobitos play. Surely, we will have incredible days in which we will all get excited watching the game, discovering who already hits the ball better, who already dared to make a play, who for the first time scores their goal, or outwits the entire defense and gives a pass to goal. The emotion of the game won was great and brought us a smile for the rest of the day, and we continued to comment on the plays and the goals. But surely, we will also have not-so-lucky days, in which for the rest of the day we will not want to talk about the subject, but then we will start again because in reality that is life, we are going to win and lose, and we are going to overcome, to correct, to prepare, because we have to always move forward and happy.

Have you already realized that we also have about 5 or 6 children between 3 and 5 years old? I'm just saying.

We appreciate the support that Erika and Hacienda have provided to this team, to Mr. Mario Cortés coach of the Lobitos, and to the assistant parents Mr. Luis Orozco and Mr. Francisco Ruiz who support us by training the goalkeepers. And undoubtedly to all the parents for always being there supporting their children, because sometimes, even if they cannot attend training or games due to work, and cannot take the children to the games, together we all organize to try that the team is always participating.

Thank you, Lobitos Family.

FORTH and Hacienda CDC have partnered to bring two electric vehicles for shared use at Las Adelitas and Salón Comunal.

Read more about the community launch event and what to expect from the EV carsharing system.  

A new Chevy Bolt will be available for carshare rental program in partnership with FORTH.

Hacienda’s dedication to supporting and uplifting communities is strengthened through valuable partnerships. Collaborating with remarkable organizations, we develop resources to engage residents and community members. 

On January 23, 2024, Hacienda’s Resident Services team, in collaboration with FORTH, a nonprofit organization focused on clean transportation, introduced an exciting new carshare program to the Cully community. But what exactly is carsharing? It's a solution aimed at overcoming transportation limitations by providing access to a fleet of vehicles for short-term rentals. Additionally, with its utilization of electric vehicles, it also contributes to reducing carbon emissions. 

The 2-hour Launch Event served as an opportunity for residents to discover more about the carshare program and its benefits. The system will feature a specialized app allowing residents to easily reserve, unlock, and drive the vehicle during their allocated time. Moreover, participants were assured of receiving travel support throughout their journey, highlighting one of the many ways FORTH supports participating residents. A standout feature of the carsharing program is its use of electric vehicles as a transportation option. Residents got an exclusive first look at the new Chevy Bolt and eagerly explored the vehicle they will soon have access to. 

Families and individuals across the Cully community will utilize the carshare for their daily errands and to create new memories during their vacations. Thank you FORTH for partnering with Hacienda and making transportation accessible to everyone!  

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Are you a Hacienda Cully resident interested in using the carshare system?  

Download the MDO Carshare app from the Google Play or App Store or scan the QR code to get started:

1. Register Account  

2. Onboarding Call 

3. Reserve 

4. Unluck and Drive  

5. Return and Pug-In  

Need help? Please visit goforthcarshare.com or call 503-850-0007 

Nico and Fran are two entrepreneurs with a mission to introduce their innovative pistachio spread, Pistakio, to every household. In 2023 they partnered up with Hacienda’s Empresarios program to launch their business. Read more about their inspiring journey. 

In 2022, Fran Voit and her partner Nico Buffo were in their senior year at Savannah College of Art & Design when they came up with an innovative business idea for one of their classes. With their shared passion for food, (and pistachios!) the two of them thought about ways to create a universally loved treat. Why pistachios? While traveling through Italy, these two entrepreneurs fell in love with its savory and sweet applications. From this unexpected inspiration came Pistakio, a spread that they call “pistachios reimagined.” 

Impressed by the final project, Nico's professor urged them to bring their idea to life. His encouragement instilled belief in the potential success of Pistakio. After much deliberation, Fran and Nico embraced the unknown, eager to see where their idea could take them. “We were honestly shocked at the response we got, and that got us thinking,” explained Fran. 

They soon launched an Instagram page, inviting followers to join them on their journey. In February 2023, they showcased their first batch of recipes at a farmers' market in Savannah, Georgia. At the farmers market, Nico and Fran received feedback from customers about what they liked and didn’t, which gave the business owners a better idea of what people appreciated. 

"We wanted to make sure people could use the spread on anything, not just have seasonal spreads like you often see," said Fran. This commitment to creating a versatile pistachio spread led them to Portland. “We knew that this was a great place to start a business because people care for fresh and local businesses.” Their goal was clear: to tap into the vibrant community of small businesses to offer a unique, delectable nut spread unlike any on the market. “We noticed that there were nut butters and spreads, but not many pistachio-based for everyday use...” Fran added. 

As Pistakio's popularity grew over time, Nico and Fran faced the challenge of meeting demand. During this time, they discovered the "Get Your Recipe to Market" course at Portland Community College. Fran luckily crossed paths with Melina Romero, the Empresarios Program Coordinator, since the Empresarios program gave an educational presentation to the class. “Melina was a presenter one day and we immediately connected after realizing we were both Ecuadorian. Soon after, we began to search for a kitchen to produce and she told us about the commissary kitchen, so we went immediately!” recounted Fran.   

The Portland Mercado commissary kitchen provided Nico and Fran with the space to scale up production, fueling their ambition to create more products. They soon became clients of the Empresarios program, where they were paired with Flavio Gracia, their personal business advisor. On one occasion, through the guidance of the Empresarios program, Fran and Nico pitched their ideas to a local grocery store, gaining invaluable insights to propel their progress. "I vividly remember seeing Fran and Nico's dedication and passion during the pitch meeting. Some board members said that it was the best presentation they had heard," shared Melina. 

The relentless determination and hard work of this dynamic duo have undoubtedly paid off. Their success is also due to the unwavering support of many. "It was because of a lot of people's support we are here now and in less than a year. I’m grateful for Melina and the Empresarios team, all the vendors, and the people who have supported us. We are grateful for it all.," expressed Fran. 

Looking ahead, Pistakio will be available for national purchase through their website beginning February 26th, 2024. Furthermore, Fran and Nico are eager to launch a second savory Pistakio spread in 2025 and explore additional flavor variations. “We want to create variations and fun collabs of our sweet one since it has been loved by so many already. And we're super excited (and nervous) for our launch coming up really soon!” shared these amazing entrepreneurs. Congratulations, Fran and Nico, on an extraordinary and inspirational beginning! 

Ready to start your food-related business? Learn more about our Empresarios program.

Portland Parks & Recreation engages the next generation of environmental leaders through volunteer naturalist training, paid work programs, nature-based camps, field trips, guided walks, and stewardship. Learn more about opportunities available.