NeighborImpact celebrates major milestone: 40 years of helping to strength C.O. communities

(Update: Adding video, comments from staff, recipient)

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- NeighborImpact is celebrating its 40th anniversary in the community. The organization was founded on December 5, 1984, and has since grown to provide nearly 1 million services annually to 75,000 Central Oregonians. 

"We're really proud of what we've been able to accomplish," Rachel Haakenson, NeighborImpact's director of marketing and communications, said Tuesday. "We're always seeking to learn from our community about what exactly impacts them and what kinds of things might help folks to thrive in this area."

Among other aspects of assistance, NeighborImpact provides services for child care providers to become established and expand their programs. 

April Farmer turned to NeighborImpact to receive a child care expansion grant. She is the director of the recently opened Soul Blossom Child Care Center in Sisters. Her goal is to serve 32 children. 

Farmer said, "It's been really beautiful and fun to set up a space that feels nurturing and interactive for children."

"Professionally, it was wonderful to get all the business support and training from NeighborImpact through the six-month course, as well as regular financial meetings," she added.

NeighborImpact provides much more than child care services. It also offers a food bank that distributes 6.4 million pounds of food per year,  as well as energy assistance programs.

NeighorImpact said the organization offers services that serve people at various stages of their lives. 

Haakenson said, "We have emergency services that help folks access shelter when they're experiencing houselessness. We also have services that help individuals put a down payment on their first home."

NeighborImpact brings resources to Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson counties, as well as the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. 

Below is the nonprofit's press release:

NeighborImpact, a cornerstone of support for individuals and families in Central Oregon, is celebrating its 40th anniversary.

Since its founding on December 5, 1984, the organization has grown from humble beginnings into a vital community resource, providing nearly one million services annually to 75,000 Central Oregonians — equivalent to one in three residents.

Founded as the Central Oregon Community Action Agency Network (COCAAN), NeighborImpact began with just two staff members, an annual budget of $144,585, and a mission to offer energy assistance and weatherization services.

Over four decades, the nonprofit has grown into a multifaceted organization with a $50 million budget, 270 staff members and programs spanning food distribution, housing, child care, Head Start, financial lending and more.

“What started as a small effort to address basic needs has grown into a comprehensive organization that touches nearly every aspect of life for those we serve,” said Scott Cooper, executive director of NeighborImpact. “This milestone is a moment to honor our history and reaffirm our commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Central Oregon.”

NeighborImpact’s history is marked by innovation and collaboration. The organization’s first food bank was launched in 1990, distributing shelf-stable goods directly from a truck. Today, NeighborImpact distributes 6.4 million pounds of food annually, serving thousands across the region.

Under the leadership of executive directors Mark Chambers, Terry Lynch, Sharon Miller and Scott Cooper, the organization grew its programs to include affordable housing, early childhood education, homeownership initiatives and much more.

With support from local governments, businesses, donors, and volunteers, NeighborImpacthas delivered over $30 million annually in direct financial assistance to families in need.

As Central Oregon continues to grow, so does NeighborImpact’s vision.

“A favorite quote of mine (attributed to various people) is: 'If what you’ve done yesterday looks large to you, you haven’t done much today.' I embrace that,” said Cooper. “For 40 years, NeighborImpact has been doing good, but think how much more, working together, we can do in the decades to come.”

NeighborImpact invites the community to celebrate this milestone and learn more about its mission, impact, and vision for the future. To get involved or make a donation, visit www.neighborimpact.org.

About NeighborImpact: NeighborImpact is a private non-profit governed by a board of directors drawn from across the community. Since 1985, NeighborImpact has led the region in developing solutions and bringing resources to Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson counties and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. We help meet the basic needs of Central Oregonians, build economic security and create a community where everyone thrives. 

NeighborImpact receives federal, state and local grants, foundation grants and donations from individuals and businesses in our community. To learn more about NeighborImpact, please visit www.neighborimpact.org.