This program is built to help four motivated individuals join the Advanced Mass Timber Training Program.

Zaugg Timber Solutions, a mass timber and modular housing company is seeking motivated individuals with carpentry experience to join the Advanced Mass Timber Training Program. This opportunity aims to mentor and provide professional development to participants which will ensure the organization's continued growth and impact in the communities they serve.

About the program:

The Program is designed to provide trainees with the skills and knowledge required for company operations. This includes expertise in machinery, materials, techniques, safety and work processes in the factory and on the job site. The first week of training will cover safety on the job site. Subsequent training will have both practical components as well as in-classroom theoretical components. Practically, trainees will spend the majority of their time on the construction site doing day-today work. Two to four days per month trainees will study building science in the classroom while also accomplishing a hands-on project. Trainees will be asked to keep their own notebooks to document what they have learned.

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

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

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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.

Hacienda’s vision will bring 55 new affordable apartments to Lake Oswego

LAKE OSWEGO, Ore.— Clackamas County has granted preliminary funding for Hacienda Community Development Corporation (CDC) to proceed with its proposed affordable housing community in Lake Grove. Hacienda CDC, Oregon's largest Latino-led community development organization, is dedicated to addressing the critical need for affordable housing, particularly for underserved populations. This significant development will be Hacienda CDC's third community in Clackamas County and furthers their commitment to provide affordable housing and holistic programming to communities across the region. 

Hacienda CDC's proposal envisions a three-story, elevator-served building on Boones Ferry Road that will provide 55 new affordable rental units and include on-site resident services provided by Hacienda CDC, as well as a host of culturally-specific support and programming for youth and families. 

Mackenzie and Access Architecture have united to design the community project that Colas Construction will build. The project site will include open and covered seating, an art-filled plaza, a nature-based playground, and a native plant garden. The community will also feature energy-efficient appliances, 100% electric building systems, rooftop solar panels, passive solar design, and incorporate universal design principles and trauma-informed design, ensuring accessibility, and comfort.

"We are excited to bring much-needed affordable housing options to Lake Oswego and continue our work in Clackamas County. We are honored to have been selected by the County to provide community members with the housing they need and deserve," said Ernesto Fonseca, CEO of Hacienda CDC.

The final community design will be informed by Hacienda’s community engagement process beginning in Fall 2023 and will ensure that the building aligns with the needs and desires of residents and community members. Hacienda is currently seeking community-based organizations and support agencies in the area that would like to be involved in community engagement efforts. Following community engagement, the project will seek approval through the City’s land use development review process. 

"Creating housing that is accessible to our full community means creating housing affordable to a wide variety of families through non-profit led development partnerships. The Boones Ferry Road location - with access to high quality schools, premier parks and natural areas, close to employment, transit, and regional access - is exemplary of a high opportunity location befitting the needs of future residents,” stated City of Lake Oswego Mayor Joe Buck. “We are grateful to the neighbors and community members who served on the developer selection committee and are excited to welcome both Hacienda and our future neighbors into our incredible city.” 

The Lake Grove project will provide affordable housing to a diverse population, including families and individuals facing homelessness or imminent displacement who require permanent supportive housing (PSH). Out of the 55 apartments, 20 will be rent-restricted to 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI), with 10 of those units dedicated to PSH through coordination with the Housing Authority of Clackamas County (HACC). Supportive services will be provided by New Narrative. The remaining apartments will be comprised of varying unit sizes and rents accessible to low-income and working-class individuals and families earning 60% AMI or below. 

“We are delighted that our affordable housing bond dollars will provide 55 more affordable apartments in Lake Grove,” says Board of County Commissioners Chair Tootie Smith. “I applaud Lake Oswego’s commitment to affordable housing, which allows the local workforce community to live closer to their jobs in high-cost areas. This new project helps Clackamas County meet our goals to address homelessness and ensure a safe community for everyone who lives here.” 

While Clackamas County's approval is a significant milestone, the project's final endorsement is pending from Metro. Hacienda CDC remains committed to working closely with all relevant stakeholders to move the development forward and provide much-needed affordable housing options for the Lake Grove community. The project is expected to break ground in Fall of 2024.

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About Clackamas County

 We are building a safe Clackamas County where all people thrive, are celebrated for their diverse identities, and know they belong. Our strategic priorities are to build public trust through good government, grow a vibrant economy, build a strong infrastructure, ensure safe, healthy and secure communities, and honor, utilize, promote and invest in our natural resources.

About Lake Oswego

Lake Oswego, Clackamas County’s largest city, is known for its peaceful neighborhoods, natural beauty, recreational and cultural amenities, highly-rated schools, and sense of community. With a population of approximately 41,000, an extensive parks system, and a full range of retail and commercial services, Lake Oswego is one of the most desirable places to live, work, and play in Oregon. Lake Oswego is proud to be a full-service City with a complete range of municipal departments including police and fire protection, an award-winning library, and a well-maintained parks system. There is a strong sense of community pride as evidenced by the range of City Boards and Commissions, more than 20 neighborhood associations, and a number of civic and cultural organizations. We strive to be a community where any family or individual feels a true sense of belonging. Whether you live in Lake Oswego, work here, or visit, Lake Oswego hopes you see yourself reflected in aspects of our diverse community life.

Hacienda CDC’s latest Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), built in partnership with Community Vision, will offer Christin a supportive, on-site, affordable housing solution for her adult sons with disabilities.

Hacienda’s Small Homes Northwest initiative aims to identify new housing solutions to our state’s affordable housing crisis by building and demonstrating the use of ADU’s as affordable housing and offer a unique housing model in dense residential urban areas. Recognizing the urgent need for such housing options, Hacienda CDC embarked on this project and has once again partnered with Community Vision to make a positive difference in the lives of families like Christin and her sons, KeLani and KeJon in Gresham, Oregon.

Christin and her family experienced numerous challenges due to the lack of stable and affordable housing options for adults with differing abilities. Christin, who became a homeowner by purchasing a land trust home with Proud Ground, looked for supportive housing for her oldest son, but only found long waitlists and high costs that her family could not afford. The chance to have an ADU in her backyard offers her sons the opportunity to achieve independence. Her oldest son will move in first, and when her younger son is ready, the second bedroom will be his. Once they are ready to move out on their own, Christin will be able to rent her home to a future low-income tenant, providing a modest stream of income.

The benefits of an accessory dwelling unit are particularly advantageous for individuals needing to stay close to home. Joe WykowskI, Community Vision’s Strategic Housing Outreach Consultant explains, “ADU’s provide an anchor to neighborhoods and the opportunity to live a more self-determined life for individuals experiencing disabilities.” And though still in the final stages of construction, Christin and her family are already hopeful for the future.

“There is no way I could have done this alone,” says Christin, “my family is so grateful for this new space. My boys can now have the independence they crave while also being close to the support they need. This level of independence would never have been possible without this project.”

Christin finalizes her ownership of her family’s new ADU

Hacienda brought multiple partners together to make Christin’s ADU possible including Community Vision, Hampton Lumber, the Kuni Foundation, and Meyer Memorial Trust. The partnership leveraged additional funding and in-kind donations which paired with Christin’s investment to build the ADU. Designed by Mitch Snyder and built by Roost LLC, the ADU will belong to Christin with the requirement that the home be affordable to tenants earning 60% AMI and below for a minimum of 10 years.

By partnering with Community Vision, Hacienda’s Small Homes Northwest initiative provides housing solutions that allow adults with disabilities and their families a new option.

The construction of the ADU was possible thanks to a generous lumber and financial donation from Portland-Based Hampton Lumber, who were inspired to be part of this solution and contacted Hacienda after learning about Small Homes Northwest last year.

“The affordable housing crisis is affecting urban and rural areas throughout the state,” said Kristin Rasmussen of Hampton Lumber.  “We’re proud to be able to grow, harvest, and manufacture sustainable building materials right here in Oregon and to be part of this innovative effort to create more affordable housing opportunities in our communities.”

Community Vision, Hacienda CDC, and Hampton Lumber join Christin and her son in celebrating this milestone

The new ADU, which will be complete this summer, will provide both of Christin’s sons a private and safe living space, fostering a sense of independence while still being connected to family and their support network.

For this family of three, the Small Homes Northwest initiative has been truly life-changing. With a stable living situation, the mother can rest at ease knowing her sons have a safe, nurturing environment that they can call their own.

The success of the Small Homes Northwest initiative in Gresham serves as a beacon of hope for other families facing housing challenges. The program's model highlights the potential of community-driven initiatives in addressing the housing crisis, emphasizing the importance of unique housing options.

“Every ADU we develop with Small Homes Northwest tells a different chapter of our work to combat the housing crisis in Oregon. We wish Christin and her family great joy with their new casita and appreciate the opportunity to pair innovation and partnership to make it possible,” said Ernesto Fonseca, CEO of Hacienda CDC.

This family in Gresham has found a place to call home, enabling them with the new possibility of living independently with dignity and stability. Together, we celebrate their inspiring journey, and are reminded of the profound impact that thoughtful initiatives can have on transforming lives and building a brighter future for all!

The modular homes made from Oregon-grown mass-timber, arriving in communities this summer, may offer a speedier solution to state’s housing crisis

OTIS, Ore., June 7, 2023 — This morning in Otis, a small Lincoln County community near the Oregon coast, Barbara and Scott Benedict stood on their rural property and watched as a crane lifted a pair of large boxes off of two flatbed trucks. By early afternoon, workers had placed the two boxes, or modules, together to form the Benedicts’ new home, replacing the one destroyed in 2020 by the Echo Mountain Fire near Lincoln City.

The Benedicts’ new “Mass Casita” is one of six prototype homes developed by Hacienda CDC and built from Oregon-grown mass timber. Last month, they began arriving in Oregon communities; nearly all will be ready for their owners to occupy them later this summer. 

The home deliveries are the latest chapter in the story of Mass Casitas, an innovative pilot project that is among the first of its kind in the nation. Led by Hacienda CDC, a statewide housing organization based in Portland, the project aims to demonstrate how modular housing built with mass timber could provide a more efficient, faster and less expensive way to build housing and ease Oregon’s housing shortage. 

Oregon is short 140,000 housing units and needs to build more than a half-million homes over the next 20 years in order to keep up with demand. Gov. Tina Kotek has set a construction target of 36,000 units per year, an 80% increase over current production. Reaching that goal will require innovative solutions that can generate housing much faster than Oregon does now.

“Oregon urgently needs more homes, not only for families displaced by disasters like wildfires, but for our many rural and urban communities that simply don’t have enough housing,” said Ernesto Fonseca, CEO of Hacienda. “With Mass Casitas, we’re developing a process that could add many more homes throughout the state, at a faster pace than traditional construction.”

From design to delivery

Beginning in June 2022, the six prototype Mass Casitas were designed and developed at the Port of Portland’s Terminal 2. So far, three of the six prototypes have been delivered to Otis (one home) and Talent (two homes). A fourth home will be delivered to Madras in June; the remaining two homes will be installed in Portland later this summer.

At the Port, large panels of mass timber plywood were assembled into the boxes, or modules, that form the homes. After the walls were framed, crews installed mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, as well as windows, insulation, and roof structures. The boxes were then placed onto trucks and delivered to their new communities.

On site in Otis, the two modules for the Benedicts’ home were lifted by crane off of two flatbed trucks and placed together on a concrete foundation to form one 1,136 sq. ft. structure. Over the next four to six weeks, crews will affix the two modules to the foundation, join them together, and complete a range of finishing work — such as insulating the crawl space, hooking up utilities, and completing interior doors and trim. The Benedicts will move in by late July.

Over the next year, the Mass Casitas team will work with Mass Casitas residents to monitor how the structures perform in different Oregon climates. The team will use what they learn to improve the design of Mass Casitas and inform the production process.

Potential to scale up, community partners

Hacienda’s Mass Casitas project includes the design, development, delivery and field-testing of six prototype homes. Going forward, Hacienda continues to explore how to produce Mass Casitas on a larger scale, potentially as part of a federally funded project that envisions the Port of Portland’s Terminal 2 as a new Mass Timber Innovation Hub.

In communities, Hacienda has worked with nonprofit partners to help identify and/or select the families who will live in the Mass Casitas. The six homes (which range in size from studios to 3-bedroom models) have been or will be delivered to these four communities:

• 1 home arrived today in  Otis (Lincoln County); partner is Cascade Relief Team

• 2 homes are on site in Talent (Jackson County); partner is Casa of Oregon

• 1 home is going to Madras (Jefferson County); partner is Casa of Oregon

• 2 homes are going to Portland (Multnomah County); partner is Community Vision

During the December 2021 special session, the Oregon Legislature allocated $5 million for Mass Casitas to the Port of Portland, which has provided the warehouse space and fund management and partnered with Hacienda, the housing organization leading the project. Other key team members are: Salazar Architect Inc. (design), Walsh Construction Co. (general contractor), and Freres Engineered Wood (mass timber supplier/expert).

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

Hacienda CDC is partnering with Comcast to get the word out about Comcast RISE, a grant program for small businesses that opens June 1st! 

This program was created in 2020 to help small businesses hard hit by COVID-19 recover and thrive. As small businesses transition from pandemic recovery to a focus on expansion and growth, Comcast will continue its efforts in 2023 to help an even broader range of small businesses while focusing on diversity, inclusion, and community investment. 

 “We are thrilled to partner with Comcast to help spread the word about Comcast RISE and make sure small businesses know about this opportunity and submit an application,” says Ernesto Fonseca, Hacienda’s CEO. Year-round Hacienda helps entrepreneurs who are interested in starting or growing a business with technical assistance and connection to resources through our Empresarios program.  

Comcast RISE stands for Representation, Investment, Strength, and Empowerment. Comcast will award grant packages to 100 small businesses in Multnomah County, including those owned by women, people of color, and individuals committed to uplifting their local communities. Valued at approximately $40,000, the grant packages will include the following: 

• Business consultation services 

• Education resources 

• $5,000 monetary grant 

• Creative production, media, and technology makeovers 

From June 1-30, 2023, small businesses in Multnomah County can learn more and apply for Comcast RISE at  www.ComcastRISE.com. We will be hosting drop-in application hours at Portland Mercado and the Cully Learning Center in June. Stay tuned for dates and times! 

Comcast will notify the winner in August. 

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Begin the application process…

Hacienda CDC is excited to announce that it was selected by Portland General Electric’s 2022 Drive Change Fund to receive funding for two electric vehicles to support ongoing programming and vechicle access to community members. The PGE DCF is funded via the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s Clean Fuels Program. Funded by the sale of Oregon CFP credits, which PGE aggregates on behalf of residential customers who charge their electric vehicles at home, the fund supports projects aimed at expanding electric mobility options and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The DCF prioritizes projects focused on serving vulnerable populations and underserved communities.  

“Portland General Electric is excited to support our partners in expanding cleaner transportation systems across the state,” said Maria Pope, president and CEO of PGE. “Transportation electrification plays an essential role in accelerating the clean energy transition. It is going to take all of us working together to achieve a cleaner and more equitable future for all Oregonians.”

Transportation is the single biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Oregon and a major source of other air pollutants. Hacienda CDC is excited to partner with PGE to accelerate the conversion to electric transportation through this investment in our mission and community.

 In addition to the positive impacts on our environment and communities, EVs are a better consumer choice

• Cleaner air. EVs have zero tailpipe emissions and reduce carbon monoxide emissions, nitrogen oxide emissions and other toxic compounds

• Safety and comfort. EVs are quiet, reducing noise pollution in our communities

• Cost of ownership. Less maintenance—no more oil changes or trips to the gas station! And the price of electricity is regulated unlike gasoline

About Portland General Electric

Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR) is a fully integrated energy company based in Portland, Oregon, with operations across the state. The company serves approximately 900,000 customers with a service area population of 2 million Oregonians in 51 cities. PGE owns 16 generation plants across Oregon and other Northwestern states and maintains and operates 14 public parks and recreation areas. For over 130 years, PGE has delivered safe, affordable and reliable energy to Oregonians. Together with its customers, PGE has the No. 1 voluntary renewable energy program in the U.S. PGE and its 3,000 employees are working with customers to build a clean energy future. In 2020, PGE, employees, retirees and the PGE Foundation donated $5.6 million and volunteered 18,200 hours with more than 400 nonprofits across Oregon. For more information visit portlandgeneral.com/news. -30-

Hacienda CDC is proud to have been selected by the City of Hillsboro to develop “Dolores”, an affordable housing project built for and inspired by community

HILLSBORO, OR, March 22, 2023— Hacienda Community Development Corporation (CDC) is thrilled to announce that last night, Hillsboro City Council approved our proposal for the “Dolores” affordable housing development in response to the Walker Road Affordable Housing Request for Proposals (RFP). Hacienda’s proposal was selected after a competitive process that began in late September 2022 and attracted affordable housing developers in the region.

“We appreciate the opportunity to partner with the City of Hillsboro to deliver much needed affordable housing,” said Ernesto Fonseca, CEO of Hacienda CDC. Hacienda is deeply grateful for the City's commitment to housing and their investment which includes up to $10.5 million in Metro Affordable Housing Bond funds and land on Walker Road pending additional City and Metro project approvals. Dolores will be sited on two parcels in the Tanasbourne area and will include 67 new affordable homes in a 3-story, elevator-served, community-inspired building with 74 off-street parking spaces.

The new affordable housing community, designed by Access Architecture, will be built by LMC Construction and is inspired by the area’s cultural diversity and the site’s history as a hazelnut tree orchard. The design aims to enhance resident well-being, accessibility, and connectivity with a courtyard, play area, greenspace, covered outdoor gathering space, offices for on-site resident services, and an Earth Advantage GOLD rating.

Named after Latina agricultural labor rights advocate Dolores Huerta, “Dolores” includes 67 affordable rental apartments, including 20 one-bedroom, 17 two-bedroom, 26 three-bedroom, and 3 four-bedroom units, all designated for community members earning 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI) and below. Of these 67 apartments, ten will be Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) to serve individuals and families exiting homelessness. Almost half of the apartments will be affordable to very low-income households, those earning up to 30% Area Median Income. New Narrative will partner with Hacienda to provide wrap-around services for individuals and families served by permanent supportive housing.

“I’m very proud of the work that has been done,” said Hillsboro Mayor Steve Callaway following the City Council vote for the project. “This new development will provide people homes, provide people roots, provide people a strong future, and create a stronger community.” 

Hacienda CDC, a community-based organization that provides affordable housing and holistic community programming and services, will be the project’s developer and owner, and provide on-site resident services. Hacienda has 11 affordable housing communities in the region, including the recently opened Las Adelitas in NE Portland. This is Hacienda’s first affordable housing development in Washington County. 

Along with Metro Affordable Housing Bond funds reserved for this project other sources of funding will include Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) equity, permanent debt with Oregon Affordable Housing Tax Credits (OAHTC) interest rate subsidy, and deferred developer fees.

We are grateful for the opportunity to develop affordable housing in Hillsboro, and we look forward to this opportunity to partner with the City of Hillsboro, Metro and Washington County to deliver quality affordable housing, culturally responsive resident services, and robust community building opportunities.

Construction is underway on six prototype homes headed to Oregon communities this summer

PORTLAND, Ore.— Inside a sprawling warehouse at the Port of Portland’s Terminal 2, a potential solution to ease Oregon’s housing shortage is swiftly taking shape. Workers are assembling six prototype modular homes using Oregon-produced mass timber that will soon house pre-selected families and individuals in four communities (Madras, Otis, Portland and Talent). Led by Hacienda CDC, the pilot project (among the first of its kind in the nation) aims to demonstrate how modular housing built with mass timber could provide a more efficient, faster and less expensive way to build housing. The pilot was spearheaded by $5 million in funding from the Oregon Legislature.

On Friday, Hacienda offered a first look at the prototype homes, called Mass Casitas, to city and state officials, including Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and Senator Jeff Merkley, community leaders, and the media at the Port of Portland’s Marine Terminal 2.

“We need more homes now to address Oregon’s urgent housing crisis, and traditional systems alone will not be enough to get the job done. Mass Casitas is innovative because we’re combining mass timber with modular single-family home construction to develop a process that could help Oregon add more high-quality housing, faster,” said Ernesto Fonseca, CEO of Hacienda.

State economists have said that Oregon has a shortage of 110,000 housing units for current residents at all income levels. To accommodate future growth, the state may need to build more than 580,000 homes by 2040. The greatest need is among residents with the lowest incomes. 

“I was excited to advocate for $5 million dollars to support this vision in its infancy, and I’m thrilled today to see its first major step forward. The Mass Casitas project is proof that, together, we can act with the urgency people across our state are demanding. Bold ideas, concrete solutions, disciplined follow through. That’s how we can deliver results,” said Kotek.

The vision of Mass Casitas extends beyond housing, Fonseca said. With additional public and private investment, the model has the potential to accelerate the growth of Oregon’s mass timber industry and create new jobs — and in the process, help to revitalize former logging communities and increase economic opportunities for Oregonians, especially in rural communities and communities of color.

Visitors who toured the Mass Casitas production site on Friday saw the six prototype homes under construction. Once complete, the homes will be donated and delivered to nonprofit organizations in four Oregon communities by June 2023. The nonprofits will select which individuals and families will live in the homes. 

The six prototype homes (which range in size between 1-3 bedrooms) are headed for these four Oregon communities: 

• 1 home is going to Madras (Jefferson County); partner is Casa of Oregon

• 1 home is going to Otis (Lincoln County); partner is Cascade Relief Team

• 2 homes are going to Portland (Multnomah County); partner is Community Vision

• 2 homes are going to Talent (Jackson County); partner is Casa of Oregon

Following delivery of the prototypes, the Mass Casitas team will monitor how the homes perform in different climates and their utility to residents, using what they learn to improve the design, inform the production process and assess the potential of creating the units at scale.

"Mass Casitas is helping transform Terminal 2 into a site for innovation, mass timber industry transformation, and opportunity for Oregon families," said Keith Leavitt, chief trade & equitable development officer at the Port of Portland. "This project is even more evidence that mass timber can be transformative for Oregon, and it's full of opportunity for those who have been left behind, from new housing options to the creation of good-paying jobs along the timber and housing construction supply chain."

During the December 2021 special session, the Legislature allocated $5 million for Mass Casitas to the Port of Portland, which is providing the warehouse space and fund management and partnered with Hacienda, the housing organization leading the project. Other key team members are: Salazar Architect Inc. (design), Walsh Construction Co. (general contractor), VALAR Consulting Engineering (engineering), and Freres Engineered Wood (mass timber supplier/expert).

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About Hacienda CDC

Hacienda CDC is a trusted Latino/x-led community-building organization that strengthens BIPOC and low-income communities through affordable housing and holistic services for adults, families and youth. Founded in 1986 in Portland’s Cully neighborhood, Hacienda has grown to support underserved communities that face barriers to opportunity throughout urban and rural Oregon. Through our own innovative approaches and high-impact partnerships, Hacienda develops affordable housing and provides client-centered services and programs that enable people to thrive and achieve their dreams of home ownership, entrepreneurship and education. Learn more at haciendacdc.org.

Learn more about Mass Casitas and this Innovative solution to address the housing crisis

Portland, OR - Hacienda Community Development Corporation (CDC) is pleased to announce that the first residents have moved into Las Adelitas, the organization's newest affordable housing development.

Located at the corner of Killingsworth Street and Cully Boulevard in Portland’s Cully neighborhood, Las Adelitas includes 142 affordable rental apartments and a community event space. The development is designed to meet the needs of low-income families and individuals, with a mix of efficiency, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments as well as amenities such as a playground, bike storage, electric vehicle car-sharing, and a solar buyback program. The complex was designed with community in mind through various community-led workshops that spoke to the needs of families and individuals.

Applications opened September 2022 and are open on a rolling basis for individuals and families that fall below 60% of the area median income.

Las Adelitas is the outcome of a 5+ year community-driven process to transform a former vacated lot that was negatively impacting the vitality of Cully. After a grassroots effort from community and various supporters, in 2015, Hacienda, Verde, and Habitat for Humanity came together to form the coalition, Living Cully to buy the property with the support of CRAFT3, Prosper Portland, Oregon Community Fund, Meyer Memorial Trust, over $50,000 donated directly from community members, and many others. In 2017 Hacienda purchased the entire property to create affordable housing that is so desperately needed.

Aptly named after feminist Mexican revolutionaries, the building brings deep social, economic and environmental benefits to the Cully community. Inspired by community design in every detail, the community also features a large-scale mural by notable artist Michelle Angela Ortiz which features Cully community members and a poem written by a local neighbor.

First resident to Las Adelitas receives keys from Ernesto Fonseca, Hacienda Chief Executive Officer

"We are thrilled to welcome the first residents to Las Adelitas," said Chief Executive Officer, Ernesto Fonseca. "This development was once just a dream, and many people thought it couldn’t be done, now we are welcoming our first residents and celebrating it as an important step in our efforts to provide affordable housing options for low-income families and individuals in the Portland area."

In addition to affordable housing, Las Adelitas also includes a community event space and space for Portland Niños, Hacienda’s program for families with children age 0-5.

Hacienda will be celebrating the official grand opening of Las Adelitas in early Spring. For more information about Las Adelitas and our full list of funders, please visit www.lasadelitas.org.

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Thank you to our donors and business partners for investing in Hacienda this winter!

Give!Guide is the centerpiece of our year-end giving campaign. It’s the opportunity for community members and businesses to come together to support Hacienda – and we can’t thank you all enough for your generosity!

In just two short months, we received 295 donations totaling over $39,000!  We appreciate each and every one of you and want to give a special shout out to our partners this year!  Huge thanks to:

• Nico’s Ice Cream for donating gift cards for our first 50 donors!

• Nico’s Cantina, a new neighbor in Cully, donated 15% of their proceeds on November 16th!

• Brew Dr. Kombucha, who donated $500, “buy one, get one free” coupons for all our donors, and 4 3-month supplies of Brew Dr. Kombucha!

• Lime kicked off our campaign with a $1,500 contribution! 

• La Villa Bar & Grill donated a portion of their proceeds on December 8th to Hacienda and Wallace!

• Portland Tacovore donated 15% of their proceeds on December 7th!

• Wonder Ballroom donated 2 tickets to their New Years Eve show.

And last but not least, special thanks to the Winquist Family who generous matched the first $10,000 in donations!

You all wrapped your arms around Hacienda this holiday season.  Thank you!