CASA of Oregon
- Program Representative Interviewed: Peter Hainley, Executive Director
- Location: Sherwood, Oregon
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Program Overview: CASA of Oregon aims to improve
the quality of life for rural Oregonians through the development of affordable housing, neighborhood
facilities, and programs that increase a families' capacity for financial well-being. CASA of Oregon was
founded in the late 1980s in response to the housing needs of migrant, seasonal, and year-round farmworkers
and their families. While CASA of Oregon continues to primarily serve the farmworker community, they have
expanded their work to developing rural housing as well as medical and educational facilities.
CASA of Oregon is a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and funds predevelopment needs of nonprofit organizations to develop affordable housing. They also provide construction and permanent financing to eligible borrowers. Additionally, CASA of Oregon partners with other nonprofits on the Valley Individual Development Account (VIDA) program. This program offers Individual Development Accounts (IDAs) to individuals and families investing in a first home, small business, or post-secondary education. CASA of Oregon administers the Matched College Savings Program (MCSP) and E3 (Earn Educate Empower), IDA programs for current or future students pursuing post-secondary education.