We are at a truly special moment in Neighborhood House’s history. This new chapter is an opportunity to shape our future, strengthen how we serve our neighbors, and build on the work that has made this organization what it is today
-Chris Chiaccherini, Executive Director
Dear Neighbor,
So many exciting things have taken place at Neighborhood House, and there are many meaningful milestones still to come. We are beyond excited to step into this new chapter of our history alongside such a supportive and caring community.
Across our organization, we continue to grow and evolve to better meet the needs of our neighbors. At The Center 55+, we are expanding our offerings with new activities, clubs, classes, and trips that create more opportunities for connection, learning, wellness, and fun. With fitness classes, book clubs, Movie Days, Medicare 101 workshops, and Conversations on Aging sessions, The Center offers opportunities for learning, wellness, and connection. Combined with the return of favorites like Brunch at The Center and Song Circle, there has never been a better time to get involved. We have also hired a new Center Coordinator who brings a wealth of experience and a strong desire to serve others. They have already been a tremendous addition to The Center 55+, helping us strengthen programming and create even more opportunities for older adults to connect and thrive.
Our School Age Program just had an amazing summer of fun and learning. Summer camp is now offically over and included exciting adventures like the recent trip to the Oregon Zoo that created lasting memories for many of our after school students. Looking ahead, we are developing new family nights, expanding the variety of projects and enrichment activities available, and planning special events throughout the year. Our team is already preparing for the upcoming school year with the goal of reaching full capacity, expanding after-school care opportunities, and growing our staff to increase outreach and ensure more children and families can access the high-quality care and support they deserve.
In our Head Start Program, we continue to expand opportunities for children and families across our community. Markham Elementary is adding a new classroom, bringing its total to three classrooms serving 54 students. At Lincoln, enrollment has grown from 13 to 26 children, and the site will now operate three classrooms serving children from 6 weeks to 3 years old. Stephen Creek’s Corssing is also expanding Early Head Start with a new classroom for children ages 12 to 23 months, allowing us to now serve children ages 1 to 5 at the center. We are also strengthening early childhood development programs, enhancing nutrition services, and expanding our farm-to-table efforts to support healthy growth and learning.
Ramona’s move has been completed, and we said a fond farewell to the location on July 31. We’re excited to begin this new chapter and are already looking ahead to opening even more locations in the future.
The need for food assistance in our community continues to grow, and our Food Security Program remains committed to meeting that need. During our first month in the new location, we welcomed more than 3,000 shoppers, nearly 1,000 more than we typically served. That’s nearly a 50% increase from our previous location, reflecting the growing demand for food assistance in our community. With federal budget cuts and the rising cost of living, we expect this increased demand to remain our new normal. Each month, our market team 640 food boxes reach more than 380 households, ensuring families and individuals have reliable access to healthy food. These efforts help ensure children and families in our community have a reliable access to nutritious food. While the growing need presents ongoing challenges, we remain committed to serving our neighbors and are actively seeking new partnerships and collaborations to help expand access to nutritious food for everyone who needs it.
We have recently launched our Health-Related Social Needs (HRSN) Program, helping people access the support they need to remain safely housed before a crisis occurs. This important work reflects our commitment to meeting people where they are and addressing challenges before they become emergencies. We are currently building out this team and are proud to have already welcomed two incredible staff members dedicated to supporting those facing housing challenges: Marjan Anvari and Mashid Erfanfard. Their compassion, expertise, and commitment to serving our community are helping establish a strong foundation for this important work.
As our services continue to grow, so does our team. We are excited to welcome new staff members and expand our team of dedicated people who care deeply about this community. Over the past year, every program and department has undergone a thoughtful restructuring process, and we are confident these changes will lead to even greater productivity, efficiency, and impact across the organization. The knowledge, experience, and commitment of our staff will help guide Neighborhood House into its next chapter, and we are grateful to have them alongside us as we continue to grow.
Thanks to support from a Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) grant, we are now beginning Phase 2 of our building renovations. These improvements will help create a more sustainable, energy-efficient, accessible, and welcoming space for everyone who walks through our doors. Investing in our facility means investing in our community, ensuring that Neighborhood House remains a vibrant gathering place for generations to come.
And we are not slowing down. As our neighborhood continues to change, we are especially excited to get to know our new neighbors along Barbur Boulevard.
Every day brings something new to celebrate, and none of it would be possible without people like you. Thank you for walking alongside us during this recent period of growth and transition. Thank you for your commitment to Neighborhood House, to this community, and to your neighbors. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected future.
Let’s keep the good work going.
Best regards,
Chris Chiaccherini
