NeighborImpact celebrates milestone

NeighborImpact, a cornerstone of support for individuals and families in Central Oregon, is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Founded on December 5, 1984, the organization has grown 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 two staff members, an annual budget of $144,585, and a mission to offer energy assistance and weatherization services. The nonprofit has grown into an organization with a $50 million budget, 270 staff members, and programs spanning food distribution, housing, childcare, 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.”

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’s programs now include affordable housing, early childhood education, homeownership initiatives, and much more.

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

“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.”