More than 900 passionate community members gathered for Habitat for Humanity’s annual HopeBuilder Lunch—an afternoon filled with inspiration, purpose, and powerful stories. Together, we affirmed a shared belief: that everyone deserves an affordable place to call home. And thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we exceeded our fundraising goal and raised more than $500,000 in support of that mission! 

Our keynote speaker, the dynamic Natosha Reid Rice from Habitat for Humanity International, delivered a moving address that invited us to dream bigger and act bolder. “We’re living in a moment in history, and in this moment, with all of the distractions, perhaps the call is calling us all to lean in in ways that we never have before,” Natosha shared. “In this moment, I believe that we’re being called to do a few things that may take us outside of our comfort zones. But believe me, I do think that there is a great reward on the other side of the leaning in, not only for ourselves, for generations to come. 

“You are Habitat for Humanity” 
Habitat CEO Steve Messinetti reminded the crowd that it takes all of us—donors, volunteers, advocates—to create lasting change. He painted a clear picture of the urgent need for affordable homeownership in Oregon, where our state ranks 43rd in the nation for homeownership rates. 

“But when a family has an affordable home,” Steve shared. “It gives them a foundation—a place to breathe, to grow, to dream, to build a future.” 

Steve also highlighted the organization’s progress: this year, Habitat Portland Region will build and repair 100 homes—reaching more than 400 individuals. Construction is underway in Gresham, Hillsboro, King City, and even Lake Oswego. Habitat just started building its largest community to date—52 homes in SW Portland’s Hillsdale neighborhood, and is expanding its impact through innovative partnerships with private developers with two pilot projects underway in Portland and Gresham. 

A Story of Resilience and Transformation 
One of the most memorable moments came from a Habitat homeowner Ellen who shared her deeply personal journey of overcoming many obstacles to finding stability, healing, and purpose through Habitat’s homeownership program. 

“Before Habitat, our lives were unpredictable and filled with fear,” she said. “Now…we can count on our reality, and focus on thriving. We’re all attending college. We’re building a future.” 

Her moving words reminded us that affordable housing does more than put a roof over someone’s head. It restores dignity. It creates opportunity. It strengthens entire families and communities. 

Take the Next Step with Us 

Hope doesn’t end here—and neither does the work. There are so many ways you can continue to support Habitat’s mission: 

• Volunteer on a build site, at the ReStores, or with an upcoming event. 

• Team Builder: Bring your company or organization together for a sponsored volunteer day on site. 

• Donate to help build homes and brighter futures – and thanks to Shirley’s generous match, your gift will be doubled up to $50,000! 

• Advocate for policies that expand access to affordable homeownership. 

• Follow us on social media to learn more about our work and share the story of Habitat with your network. 

We’re building more than homes—we’re building hope, one family at a time. Thank you for showing up and supporting our community. 

Special thanks to our Platinum sponsor, Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys PC for helping to make the HopeBuilder Lunch possible.