Opportunity Foundation of C.O., Heart of Oregon Corps announce Redmond land sale for youth workforce development
REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Two local nonprofits, Opportunity Foundation of Central Oregon and Heart of Oregon Corps, recently announced a landmark moment in their partnership: the partition and sale of a portion of Opportunity Foundation’s property to Heart of Oregon for the establishment of Heart of Oregon’s first permanent campus.
Here's the rest of the recent announcement by both organizations:
The property sale will finalize this month, the organizations said, ensuring that the Redmond site continues to be a hub of innovation and opportunity in workforce development—values shared by both organizations.
“The establishment of Opportunity Foundation’s original property was part of a nationwide movement to provide individuals with disabilities opportunities for employment, and we’ve evolved with each step forward the State of Oregon, and the U.S. has taken to improve the quality of lives of the individuals we serve,” said Lindsey Dulian, Executive Director of Opportunity Foundation of Central Oregon.
“We’ve acutely geared our focus to integrated community settings, and the sale of this property to the Heart of Oregon continues to embrace the importance of workforce development. For that we are grateful.”
The site was once Opportunity Foundation’s Jim Couch Wood Mill, which provided employment opportunities for adults with disabilities.
Today, Opportunity Foundation focuses on supporting individuals with disabilities to build upon their quality of life by meeting their individual goals and building skills related to independent living, the workforce, and integration within the community.
The agency owns and operates eight 24-hour residential homes, two supported-living homes, two Possibilities Thrift Stores, both in Redmond and Madras, and a coffee kiosk providing on-the-job skills training. Additionally, they’re partnered with 25+ employers within Deschutes, Jefferson, and Crook counties.
Since 2016, Heart of Oregon has been leasing various Opportunity Foundation properties. With the upcoming sale finalized, Heart of Oregon will begin to centralize its operations, creating a dedicated campus, connected to rural satellite locations, where young people can build hands-on skills in fields such as conservation, construction, and childcare.
The 3.44-acre parcel includes two existing buildings and room for future expansion. Heart of Oregon will continue to use the 14,000-square-foot warehouse and 10,000-SF equipment bays while building a new 6,600-square-foot, youth-centered campus center. A vibrant outdoor courtyard will connect all three spaces, fostering collaboration and a welcoming environment for learning.
“This purchase creates the foundation to realize a dream—not just for our organization, but for the youth we serve,” said Laura Handy, Executive Director of Heart of Oregon Corps. “It is a tangible investment in the next generation of leaders and workers, and we’re deeply grateful to Opportunity Foundation for partnering with us to make it possible, ensuring a permanent home where local youth and young adults can thrive.”
Heart of Oregon engages youth and young adults ages 16-24 who are disconnected from school or work but are ready to thrive when given the right support. Through its innovative program model, Heart of Oregon empowers these young people with employment, job training, education, and opportunities to serve Central Oregon communities. As they gain skills and confidence, youth transform their lives while completing impactful projects that strengthen the communities they call home.
Steve Curley, Director of Redmond Economic Development Inc. for EDCO and member of the Opportunity Foundation board, spoke to the broader impact of this project on the northeast side of Redmond.
“This project is a key part of the ongoing growth and development of Redmond’s northeast side,” Curley said. “With new projects, infrastructure upgrades, and a strong focus on community progress, this area is rapidly becoming a hub of opportunity. The addition of Heart of Oregon’s permanent campus will be instrumental in driving this transformation forward.”
As Opportunity Foundation celebrates its 60th anniversary and Heart of Oregon its 25th anniversary in 2025, this collaboration highlights the immense power of nonprofit partnerships and their ability to create sustainable, long-term community impact. By aligning missions and resources, these two organizations are supporting economic growth and building a stronger, more resilient community where individuals of all abilities and backgrounds can thrive.
About Heart of Oregon Corps
Heart of Oregon Corps empowers youth and young adults through employment, job training, education, and service to Central Oregon communities. For more information or to apply, visit heartoforegon.org
About Opportunity Foundation of Central Oregon
Opportunity Foundation provides work skills development, community job coaching, residential caregiving and more to Central Oregonians with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For more information visit opportunityfound.org
