The cutting-edge, community-driven Verizon Community Forward initiative creates opportunities for digital access and workforce development, STEM education, digital literacy, and entrepreneurial learning               

PORTLAND, Ore., May 3, 2024 — Adults and youth in Southeast Portland have access to new and vital connections to cutting-edge technology, STEM education, and career development opportunities with the launch of a community-driven learning center at Portland Community College. The community is invited for an open house at the new learning center on May 8 from 3:00 to 7:00PM.         

The Verizon Community Forward Jade District Learning Center, one of three centers launched by Verizon in partnership with Hacienda CDC, intends to remove barriers between low-income Portlanders and the tech resources they need to succeed in a digital world. These learning centers are designed for all ages, with high-speed internet access, advanced technology, and educational and career programming. This location on Portland Community College’s southeast campus will reach traditional and nontraditional students with an increasingly diverse population.

"Everyone deserves access to the technology and resources they need to be successful in today’s digital world,” says Rudy Reyes, West Region Vice President & Deputy General Counsel at Verizon. “On behalf of Verizon, we are proud of our partnership with Hacienda to enable both youth and adults to develop the skills, knowledge and capabilities for a more promising future in the Portland community."

In partnership with Verizon, Hacienda CDC was selected to support the development of three learning centers in Portland. Open to students, community members and the public, the centers are in spaces that cater to different demographics: at Hacienda’s headquarters in Cully, mostly BIPOC youth and adults; at New Columbia, mostly high school students, and at Portland Community College’s Southeast Campus, a diverse student body and community.

“More than 60% of the families Hacienda serves in its affordable housing and programs access the internet only through their smartphones. That’s a huge barrier when you’re trying to participate in school, fill out a job application, or manage your business only through your phone,” said Ernesto Fonseca, CEO, Hacienda CDC. “Latinos, who are a large portion of families served by Hacienda, are among the communities who are under-resourced when it comes to technology. They make up only 8% of STEM workers despite being 18.5% of the U.S. population.”

Known for developing affordable housing throughout metro Portland, Hacienda takes a holistic approach to building communities that goes beyond housing. The new Verizon Community Forward learning centers exemplify how Hacienda’s programs and pathways remove barriers to education, careers, and wealth building for low-income families — especially for Latinos and communities of color who historically have been shut out of opportunities.

Everyday challenges continue to magnify the barriers that low-income households face — such as not having internet or devices at home— which unfairly limit their opportunities to succeed at school and at work.      

“Thanks to Verizon and a partnership with Hacienda, the learning center will help increase digital access, literacy and STEM learning opportunities for low-income families and communities,” said PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings. “PCC is Oregon’s largest post-secondary institution and one of the most diverse institutions in the state. With a focus on equitable student access and success, it is our mission to drive outreach and support for underrepresented populations. This is just another example of that effort.”

The Verizon Community Forward Learning Centers are helping Hacienda remove those barriers with advanced tech including computers, 3D printers, audio/video recording tools, and more. These resources are coupled with programming offered through partners like Portland Community College, Free Geek and iUrban Teen that will help community members use the space and launch opportunities — whether that’s learning to use a computer, developing critical STEM skills and connections to secondary education, or launching a new career or small business.

Schools and community groups who want to participate in programming opportunities at the Verizon Community Forward learning centers or learn more should visit haciendacdc.org/community.

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About Verizon    

Citizen Verizon is the company’s responsible business plan for economic, environmental and social advancement. Citizen Verizon empowers Verizon to deliver on its mission to move the world forward through action by expanding digital access and resources, protecting the climate, and ensuring people have the skills needed for jobs of the future. Through Citizen Verizon, and the key pillars of Digital Inclusion, Climate Protection and Human Prosperity, the company's responsible business goals include providing 10 million youths with digital skills training by 2030, supporting 1 million small businesses with resources to help them thrive in the digital economy by 2030, achieving net zero emissions in its operations by 2035, and preparing 500,000 individuals for jobs of the future by 2030. Learn more at CitizenVerizon.com.      

About Verizon Community Forward

Verizon Community Forward works with local non-profit partners to create innovative learning spaces in community centers, powered by 5G.  Verizon Community Forward expands existing local education resources around the country to deliver education and skills training needed to prepare youth and adults for the digital economy and jobs of the future. There are nine Verizon Community Forward learning centers in 4 cities: Portland, Pittsburgh, Houston and Cleveland.

About Hacienda CDC

Hacienda CDC was formed in 1986 to provide necessary housing and supportive services in NE Portland’s Cully neighborhood. At that time, Cully was home to the largest Latino population in Oregon. Since then, Hacienda has grown to provide affordable housing in 10 communities in Northwest Oregon and provide supportive services to over 1500 individuals, children, and families.

As Portland’s Latino population has grown rapidly, Hacienda continues building capacity to offer our bicultural services to Latinos and other low-income families. Hacienda embraces a holistic approach, providing culturally specific services that provide opportunities to access needed resources like growing or starting a business, and buying a first home. Hacienda is Oregon’s largest Latino-led, Latino-serving housing organization and remains a trusted name in the community.

About Portland Community College

Founded in 1961, Portland Community College is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 50,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties. PCC has four comprehensive campuses, 10 education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-square-mile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and life-long learning.

Visit PCC news at www.news.pcc

Thanks to the support of the Zera Foundation and partnership with Adventure Without Limits, youth and families within Youth and Family Services participated in outdoor trips such as snowshoeing at Mount Hood.

Read firsthand about the López Gómez family, active participants of Sembrando Semillitas, and their experience making valuable memories.

by familia López Gómez

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It was a Saturday of family fun that gave us the opportunity to appreciate nature. While interacting with others and sharing nature at the same time we were able to interact with other people and share pleasant moments contemplating the snow and enjoying various weather changes at times.

We arrived at the meeting point to get on the bus that took us to the mountain and everything was very organized.

Since everything went in a very organized way, during the trip we were able to talk with other families. With other families, we also felt very comfortable because the organization was in charge of providing us with adequate equipment. The organization took care of providing us with some appropriate clothing for the occasion. When we arrived at the place, we were given the corresponding indications and the necessary equipment for the snow hike.

“On behalf of the López Gómez family, we would like to thank the Sembrando Semillitas program for providing this opportunity for family fun and resources to make it possible.”

We had a very nice day; my family was really happy! They very much liked to observe the view of the mountain and the small river that crossed through there.

We were also able to observe different weather changes! In some moments we could feel the sun’s rays and at other moments and other moments, we felt the wind running as well as a little snowfall. It was absolutely beautiful. We enjoyed it so much! We also had fun times as the kids were playing with the snow and funny moments where we slipped and fell in the snow but without any complications... everything was very nice!

On behalf of the López Gómez family, we would like to thank the Sembrando Semillitas program for providing this opportunity for family fun and resources to make it possible! We would also like to thank you for helping us as families spend a relaxing and joyful time with our children and get out of the daily routine; encouraging family unity! Thank you!

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These outdoor outings were made possible with the support of the Zera Foundation and Adventures Without Limits. Thank you for helping our youth and families create lasting memories!

Hacienda’s children’s soccer team, Los Lobitos, has a second generation in our Plaza de Los Robles community thanks to the hard work and dedication of our coach, Jose Guadalupe Vazquez, and our Youth & Family Services team.

Read more of Jose’s story and what this team of Los Lobitos means to him, our youth and their families, and the community at large.

by coach Jose Guadalupe Vazquez

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The Lobitos’s story began 2 years and 3 months ago, when one day back in April 2022 we met and started to train and to play as a team. During this time, we had several games and we have participated in several tournaments, in some, we have done very well and in others not so much, but we continue learning. 

But now it is worth telling the story of the second generation of Lobitos.

During the games it has been very satisfying to see the families living together and supporting the team, that is where we realized that we have several small children who get very excited when they celebrate a goal from their brothers' team.

One day, during a gathering we had on the beach with all the families on the team, I saw that there were small children about the same age, and I commented “I think there are several children with whom we could put together another team” and the small children who when they heard it, they jumped and said “Yes, we want to play too.”

And it is incredible to see how the youngest children, sometimes in their innocence, believe that they can help the team. I remember that one time they were not winning the game. We were all distressed that their shots were not coming out, that their tactics and moves were not functioning, and they were not scoring goals. A younger brother of a child on the team told me, grabbing his head with his little hands, “coach, take my brother out and put me in, I play better than him.” I smiled and told him, then hurry up and grow up, and he very seriously said yes.

“This would be their first experience as a team, we knew that we might not have good results, but it didn’t matter, at that age I think the most important thing is to play and have fun.”

Another day a little girl told me “Coach, when is the team coming?” and she pointed to herself to indicate to me that she was referring to the youngest children's team, and from that time on, she asked me the same thing every time she saw me. Until one day it happened. I spoke with the second coach and father of one of the children on the team to ask him if he would be interested in coaching the youngest team. He accepted the ask. So, we had to adjust with the names, the big kids' team is now Lobos and the little kids kept the name Lobitos.

On the first Tuesday of August, Lobitos training began, and 11 children between 7 and 9 years old showed up. Oh, by the way, they are all brothers of the Lobos. In the second week, a girl asked: “Coach, when are we going to play a game?”  and everyone was excited to know that maybe it would be soon.

The children hadn't even been training for a month, but they had a huge desire to compete. So, they invited us to a tournament and we asked if there was a category for the little ones, and luckily for us there was. We talked about it with the parents and although there were doubts that perhaps it was too early to compete, they accepted. This would be their first experience as a team, we knew that we might not have good results, but it didn't matter, at that age I think the most important thing is to play and have fun.

“We had fun, we enjoyed their enthusiasm, and they made us very happy that day, I think we will remember it as the best Sunday we have ever had.”

Result of the day, Lobos won 3-0 and Lobitos won 2-1 in their first match, and they were losing 1-0, but their emotion, their dedication and their desire to win made them turn the score around, between kicks, falls, pushes, plays and tears. We had fun, we enjoyed their enthusiasm, and they made us very happy that day, I think we will remember it as the best Sunday we have ever had.

Our Sunday is about getting up early, carrying chairs, water, uniforms, shin guards, balls, and everything to go see our Lobitos play. Surely, we will have incredible days in which we will all get excited watching the game, discovering who already hits the ball better, who already dared to make a play, who for the first time scores their goal, or outwits the entire defense and gives a pass to goal. The emotion of the game won was great and brought us a smile for the rest of the day, and we continued to comment on the plays and the goals. But surely, we will also have not-so-lucky days, in which for the rest of the day we will not want to talk about the subject, but then we will start again because in reality that is life, we are going to win and lose, and we are going to overcome, to correct, to prepare, because we have to always move forward and happy.

Have you already realized that we also have about 5 or 6 children between 3 and 5 years old? I'm just saying.

We appreciate the support that Erika and Hacienda have provided to this team, to Mr. Mario Cortés coach of the Lobitos, and to the assistant parents Mr. Luis Orozco and Mr. Francisco Ruiz who support us by training the goalkeepers. And undoubtedly to all the parents for always being there supporting their children, because sometimes, even if they cannot attend training or games due to work, and cannot take the children to the games, together we all organize to try that the team is always participating.

Thank you, Lobitos Family.

FORTH and Hacienda CDC have partnered to bring two electric vehicles for shared use at Las Adelitas and Salón Comunal.

Read more about the community launch event and what to expect from the EV carsharing system.  

A new Chevy Bolt will be available for carshare rental program in partnership with FORTH.

Hacienda’s dedication to supporting and uplifting communities is strengthened through valuable partnerships. Collaborating with remarkable organizations, we develop resources to engage residents and community members. 

On January 23, 2024, Hacienda’s Resident Services team, in collaboration with FORTH, a nonprofit organization focused on clean transportation, introduced an exciting new carshare program to the Cully community. But what exactly is carsharing? It's a solution aimed at overcoming transportation limitations by providing access to a fleet of vehicles for short-term rentals. Additionally, with its utilization of electric vehicles, it also contributes to reducing carbon emissions. 

The 2-hour Launch Event served as an opportunity for residents to discover more about the carshare program and its benefits. The system will feature a specialized app allowing residents to easily reserve, unlock, and drive the vehicle during their allocated time. Moreover, participants were assured of receiving travel support throughout their journey, highlighting one of the many ways FORTH supports participating residents. A standout feature of the carsharing program is its use of electric vehicles as a transportation option. Residents got an exclusive first look at the new Chevy Bolt and eagerly explored the vehicle they will soon have access to. 

Families and individuals across the Cully community will utilize the carshare for their daily errands and to create new memories during their vacations. Thank you FORTH for partnering with Hacienda and making transportation accessible to everyone!  

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Are you a Hacienda Cully resident interested in using the carshare system?  

Download the MDO Carshare app from the Google Play or App Store or scan the QR code to get started:

1. Register Account  

2. Onboarding Call 

3. Reserve 

4. Unluck and Drive  

5. Return and Pug-In  

Need help? Please visit goforthcarshare.com or call 503-850-0007 

Portland Parks & Recreation engages the next generation of environmental leaders through volunteer naturalist training, paid work programs, nature-based camps, field trips, guided walks, and stewardship. Learn more about opportunities available.

In 2006, Hacienda’s Plaza Los Robles, a thriving farmworker community, opened its doors in Molalla, OR. Seventeen years later at 415 Toliver Rd., Plaza Los Robles has evolved into a central location where families come together and connect through Hacienda programming. Read on to learn more about this community and the Hacienda staff that impact the Plaza Los Robles community every day.  

The Molalla team stands alongside City Manager Dann Huff, Mayor Scott Keyser, and Risk Manager Andy Oliva during a 2023 community event.

Farmworkers are the backbone of Oregon’s agricultural economy, yet these workers are some of the lowest paid in the state. Low wages and an overall lack of adequate housing created barriers for families whose primary language is Spanish, who don’t speak English, and who often experience challenges assimilating to a new and sometimes unwelcoming culture. 

In 2006 Hacienda, in partnership with Casa of Oregon, confronted this issue by developing Plaza Los Robles, a 24-unit affordable housing community in the countryside of rural Molalla, to provide housing for farm workers and their families. Located in beautiful countryside, Plaza Los Robles provides affordable housing near the farms where many of its residents work. What sets this community apart outside of its location is the intentionality placed behind the programming and support systems that address the concerns of families. 

At Plaza Los Robles, residents and local neighbors have access to a range of programs offered by Hacienda, including Expresiones, an after-school program designed to support the children of Plaza Los Robles residents. This support has proven to be crucial for families navigating the challenges of assimilation and integration into a new community. Santa Avila, a longtime Plaza Los Robles resident who now serves as a Senior Community Organizer at Hacienda, recalls how as families moved in, it also sparked a sense of belonging among all residents.

Santa, alongside other founding community advocates, saw the needs of families, many of whom are Latino, and began to seek more resources to support community members. In April 2013, after years of being a volunteer, Santa led advocacy work and supported children in the community as the Plaza Los Robles After-School Coordinator. Over time, Santa's tireless advocacy work resulted in the establishment of culturally specific services and partnerships that directly benefit Plaza Los Robles residents. From tax preparation assistance provided by El Program Hispano to instrumental help from partners like the Ford Family Foundation for programs such as Expresiones, these collaborative efforts have significantly enriched the lives of Plaza Los Robles residents.

“My younger siblings and my nephews and nieces were in the program, so I know how much impact Expresiones had to the community of Molalla and Plaza Los Robles…”

Bianca Delgado Mendoza, who embodies the values and legacy of Plaza Los Robles, excitedly joined Hacienda as the newest Program Coordinator for Plaza Los Robles in 2023. Bianca’s family was one of the first to live at Plaza Los Robles and she has seen generations grow up there. “My younger siblings and my nephews and nieces were in the program, so I know how much impact Expresiones had to the community of Molalla and Plaza Los Robles… I wanted to work here because I knew some of these kids since they were very young.”

Bianca believes that Expresiones is an important space for students to access opportunities, such as joining the Lobos and Lobitos soccer team, that otherwise wouldn’t be possible for them. Bianca excitedly mentions “these teams are led by volunteers, and they are known here in Molalla because they are so good!” Los Lobos and Los Lobitos have taken people by surprise and have quickly become a gem in the community after winning many games and tournaments!

Given the demanding workdays of farmworkers, parents frequently depend on after-school programs like Expresiones to provide their children with not only a safe but also a welcoming environment. Bianca says, “I have students who don’t live in Los Robles but are still part of the program. They attend every day even if they don’t live here.”  

As Molalla’s Latino community continued to grow it became apparent that additional help was needed to meet these needs. “Families knew they had after-school help for their kids, but there wasn’t any support for their babies… there was a need there” says April Arellano, a Sembrando Semillitas Early-Childhood Educator.

In mid-2023, the Sembrando Semillitas program launched, and April became Molalla’s first Sembrando Semillitas Coordinator. For April, this was more than a job, it was a way she could help parents gain understanding and feel encouraged, something she needed during her motherhood journey with her four-year-old son. “My son has development challenges… I get to help families, but I am also learning more about how to be a mom for my son.” April’s passion for serving Latino parents stems from her desire to see more culturally responsive resources that reflect the community and people she serves. According to April, there are things that she would never have understood had she not had help during her initial years of parenting. She hopes she can shed some light the same way it was granted to her.    

Plaza Los Robles has become an important place for the Latino community in Molalla, offering opportunities and pride. The community center in Plaza Los Robles is the preferred location for City Council meetings, where community opinions and ideas are regularly voiced. And from this place stems incredibly passionate individuals. For Santa, breaking ground as the first Latina to collaborate with Oregon Health and Science University serves as a powerful platform to advocate for her community and extend outreach to the Latino population in Molalla. Meanwhile, Bianca is nurturing mentoring connections with students who share a similar background, fostering a sense of solidarity and support. Additionally, April is actively searching for new networks to meet the needs of Latino parents, enhancing access to vital resources and services.

"Queremos ser una voz para la comunidad Latina... we want to be a voice for the Latino community," says Santa. "Plaza Los Robles means a lot to many people in Molalla," adds Bianca. We look forward to seeing what is next for Plaza Los Robles as they continue to advocate for and with the community they serve.

Muchas gracias to the Molalla team for pioneering Hacienda programming. We know Plaza Los Robles will continue to demonstrate its community strength for years to come.

Click here to learn more about Hacienda’s Youth and Family Services. 

Vanesa Mendoza-Cruz shares how her desire to SERVE Our community is a direct reflection OF her personal journey. Read more about Vanesa’s story as A hacienda resident to chief of staff to the ceo.

Vanesa Mendoza-Cruz is an example of what it means to exude tenacity, determination, and passion for her community. Most recently named Hacienda’s Chief of Staff, Vanesa has inspired our team and community through her engagement and community advocacy. Throughout her life, Vanesa has demonstrated the importance of elevating voices and stories that speak the truth of our community’s spirit. Read more about Vanesa’s story.   

Vanesa’s journey with Hacienda began twenty-four years ago upon her arrival from Oaxaca, Mexico to NE Portland at age eight. Like many immigrants, her family’s arrival in the United States signified a moment of hope and change. Her childhood was shaped by Portland’s Cully neighborhood. She grew up attending neighboring schools, and lived in Hacienda’s Clara Vista community in apartment thirty-nine; Vanesa’s first home during a time that gave her a place of belonging. “A lot of my memories since I arrived in the United States here happened there in that apartment …” 

As her journey into adulthood began, Vanesa found herself feeling a desire to serve and give back to the community that supported her. After three years of working in the banking industry, she felt compelled to fulfill this passion by finding opportunities to directly engage with community. It was during this waiting period that a temporary three-month Data Entry position opened for the then-Portland Niños program, now Sembrando Semillitas. It wasn’t before long that her passion for our work and community was noticed, and Vanesa transitioned into the role of interim Executive Assistant to the CEO. Yet, due to the role’s short-term nature, she became an Administrative Assistant within the Hacienda’s Real Estate Development program. “I pretty much have worked in every department except Economic Opportunity…”  

As fate would have it, the full-time Executive Assistant position became available and she was offered the opportunity given her natural skillset. For Vanesa, it was both exciting and nerve-wracking; “It was intimidating but I gave it a shot and said yes.” Little did she know her yes to the challenge would result in a six-year career as our CEO’s executive assistant. 

What’s next for Vanesa? She has proudly accepted a recent promotion as Chief of Staff to the CEO.  

“It’s the ‘Hacienda Effect’, everyone who’s worked or been part of Hacienda ends up returning somehow regardless of where they go…”

Vanesa strives to serve her community, and as she explains it, “…meet our communities where they are at.” Meeting communities where they are at means understanding their needs and goals and creating awareness of the various opportunities accessible to them. It means creating a seat at the table but making sure you’re also heard at the table once you’re there.”  

Raising awareness for the needs of our Latino and low-income communities is one of the primary ways Vanesa believes change can occur. Often, community members don’t know the resources they can access, such as schools or after-school programs, so Vanesa makes it a point to inform others and advocate for them.  

Time and time again she has seen Hacienda’s impact and its commitment to uplifting our communities. “It’s the ‘Hacienda Effect’, everyone who’s worked or been part of a Hacienda ends up returning somehow regardless of where they go… Our residents are the main example of this.” For Vanesa, her journey is a clear example of this “Hacienda effect” as her experience as a Hacienda resident led her to return to make a difference and be a leader in her community.  

When looking to the future, Vanesa is excited to continue her work at Hacienda and use her wisdom as well as her personal story to help the organization meet communities where they are. As the new Chief of Staff to the CEO, she aims to foster an environment of hospitality and promote the needs of community members. “I’m looking forward to what’s to come and to continue this work and find ways to meet other community needs. We can work on mental health and see the youth in our programs fulfill their dreams from beginning to end.”  

Vanesa’s story is an example of resilience and passion. Her impact continues to bring unity and hope to many. Let’s celebrate her newest role as Chief of Staff to the CEO and her continued efforts to raise individuals within our communities! Felicidades, Vanesa! 

Hacienda CDC programs encompass our values. Learn more about Hacienda’s mission by clicking here.  

Hacienda CDC is excited to announce that it was selected by Portland General Electric’s 2022 Drive Change Fund to receive funding for two electric vehicles to support ongoing programming and vechicle access to community members. The PGE DCF is funded via the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s Clean Fuels Program. Funded by the sale of Oregon CFP credits, which PGE aggregates on behalf of residential customers who charge their electric vehicles at home, the fund supports projects aimed at expanding electric mobility options and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The DCF prioritizes projects focused on serving vulnerable populations and underserved communities.  

“Portland General Electric is excited to support our partners in expanding cleaner transportation systems across the state,” said Maria Pope, president and CEO of PGE. “Transportation electrification plays an essential role in accelerating the clean energy transition. It is going to take all of us working together to achieve a cleaner and more equitable future for all Oregonians.”

Transportation is the single biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Oregon and a major source of other air pollutants. Hacienda CDC is excited to partner with PGE to accelerate the conversion to electric transportation through this investment in our mission and community.

 In addition to the positive impacts on our environment and communities, EVs are a better consumer choice

• Cleaner air. EVs have zero tailpipe emissions and reduce carbon monoxide emissions, nitrogen oxide emissions and other toxic compounds

• Safety and comfort. EVs are quiet, reducing noise pollution in our communities

• Cost of ownership. Less maintenance—no more oil changes or trips to the gas station! And the price of electricity is regulated unlike gasoline

About Portland General Electric

Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR) is a fully integrated energy company based in Portland, Oregon, with operations across the state. The company serves approximately 900,000 customers with a service area population of 2 million Oregonians in 51 cities. PGE owns 16 generation plants across Oregon and other Northwestern states and maintains and operates 14 public parks and recreation areas. For over 130 years, PGE has delivered safe, affordable and reliable energy to Oregonians. Together with its customers, PGE has the No. 1 voluntary renewable energy program in the U.S. PGE and its 3,000 employees are working with customers to build a clean energy future. In 2020, PGE, employees, retirees and the PGE Foundation donated $5.6 million and volunteered 18,200 hours with more than 400 nonprofits across Oregon. For more information visit portlandgeneral.com/news. -30-

Hacienda CDC is proud to announce the rename of its early childhood education program, Portland Niños, to Sembrando Semillitas (sem-BRAN-do Se-mee-YEE-tas).

Hacienda CDC is proud to announce the rename of its early childhood education program, Portland Niños, to Sembrando Semillitas (sem-BRAN-do Se-mee-YEE-tas), meaning sowing little seeds in Spanish. This new name reflects the program's mission to cultivate the growth of parents and their children by planting the seeds of knowledge and nurturing their development. 

At Hacienda CDC, we are dedicated to providing affordable housing, economic development, and educational opportunities to our communities. Our focus on education is driven by our belief that high-quality resources and educational opportunities set our community members on a path to success. 

The Sembrando Semillitas program, formerly Portland Niños was established in 2005, and has been a cornerstone of Hacienda’s education initiatives, providing bilingual, culturally responsive early childhood education throughout Multnomah County to parents and their children ages 0-5.  

“Our early education support and programming is a fundamental part of our work in the county and has supported families and their children for nearly two decades.”" Says, Ernesto Fonseca, CEO of Hacienda CDC. “We are so proud of the work that this team does every day and look forward to seeing them deepen their impact in their new permanent programming space.”

Through home visits, play-based learning, and intentional instruction to both parents and children, our staff are a pillar of support for families and help children develop the skills they need to thrive in their early years and beyond. Our bilingual, bicultural approach ensures that all families, regardless of their background or language, feel valued and supported. 

Thanks to the incredible community support, Sembrando Semillitas program will be housed in its first-ever permanent location in Hacienda’s Las Adelitas. The new space, called Las Abejitas, which means "the little bees," is a play on the Las Adelitas name and is inspired by bees as the pollinators contributing to plant’s growth and development who collaborate to create a strong community together. We hope that this new space will inspire parents and their children to explore, learn, and grow together. 

We are thrilled to continue our early education work as Sembrando Semillitas!

Click here to learn more about Sembrando Semillitas

Alex Valle shares how he passionately serves Our community youth and his personal development as an educator. Read more about his experience as an After-School Program Coordinator and his contribution to Hacienda’s Expresiones program.

Photography by Héctor Salazar @hectorsalazarphotography. Courtesy from the group IDEAL PDX.

Alex Valle has always had the desire and passion to work with youth. He is driven to make a difference in the lives of future generations using his gifts of teaching and relationship building. From educating and helping students through art as well as physical education in local schools, to his current role as an Expresiones After-School Program Coordinator, Alex nurtures his talents daily and finds that his work includes more than just teaching, rather he goes further to impact his community and the youth involved.  

Alex began his career at Hacienda in 2019 and transitioned into his role as an After-School Program Coordinator recently. After two years supporting organizational events and entrepreneurs in our Empresarios program, he was drawn to this particular position due to his natural ability to teach and desire to work with youth. Alex describes his current role as being a central person who “… provides a safe space for youth from the community to gather, someone who provides educational assistance with homework, develops cognitive developmental activities and connects them with programs, places, and activities that they would normally not have access to. Needless to say, After-School Program Coordinators serve as “… mentors and teachers for the kids that they work with while also being a resource center for families.”  

“…Expresiones has a vital role in the communities we serve. Not only for the educational value but also because it serves as a support for families involved.”

One of the most compelling ways Expresiones is making an impact is by allowing children to be in a safe environment upon returning from school. Parents oftentimes have busy schedules which prevent them from picking their children up. Youth are dropped off thanks to school transportation near program sites, and head to Expresiones without needing to head home beforehand. They go to their classrooms and parents have peace of mind knowing their children are well taken care of.

Alex explained that as a result of his personal involvement with Expresiones growing up, he stayed away from trouble and difficult situations. Having experienced the impact of this programming firsthand, Alex is sure to make every day count with his youth and quickly learned that every day is a new adventure in Expresiones. The most meaningful part of his work is relationship-building, from activity planning to talking with families.

“The most rewarding part of this position has been to connect with the community, both the kids and the families. Through building this connection I have been able to learn about the needs of the communities and how Hacienda and myself can help. When we are not able to provide help, we connect them to outside programs or resources that can support them. To me, this is the most rewarding part because I know how much help that brings to a family in need.” Alex has built rapport among children and families by being a support system and providing a safe environment for children to access.

“To me, this is the most rewarding part because I know how much help that brings to a family in need.”

After a short period of time, Alex saw that his impact extended beyond after-school activities. Building trust is a crucial component in his work. “When I first started in this position, I imagined it to be much simpler than it truly is. As months have passed, I’ve realized that our goal in the Expresiones program is to provide much more than just help with school and homework. I have developed relationships with the kids as a mentor and role model and relationships with the parents as a guide and family friend. While performing my duties I want the families to see me as someone they can trust and someone that will be there in case they need something. Not just an after-school teacher.”

Meanwhile he teaches children within the classroom, Alex also provides relief to families in moments of need. During the 2022 holiday season, Alex and his Expresiones team provided gifts to families they serve, which primarily encompass low-income households. The holidays can put a strain on families who cannot afford to provide their children and family with gifts. Thanks to the Youth and Family Services team as well as our partnering programs, KGW 8 and Fox 12 Oregon, gifts were given to all the youth within the program—providing help and relief for residential families.

Expresiones provides additional academic support, but its central goal and impact have evolved into something much deeper; its developed into a support system for residential families and a space to cultivate relationships—where community members are listened to. As Alex describes it, “…our goal is to build and strengthen the community and voice the needs of the people we serve… I believe that we are doing just that.”  

Beyond being a mentor and educator, Alex is an incredibly talented multimedia artist. Growing up, he had teachers and mentors who encouraged his artistic pursuits and he believes it was through their support he continued with art. He teaches his love of art to his students on a daily basis in the hope they too feel motivated to foster their individual talents. Overall, Alex shares that by teaching art, he demonstrates “the value of having someone who values and believes in your work…” ensuring to practice this value with the youth he serves.

Alex Valle is an example of a passionate and driven individual that helps Hacienda offer bilingual and bi-cultural academic support to youth in our communities.

Expresiones is an Hacienda CDC program available to residential families. Learn more about Expresiones and Youth and Family Services by clicking here.  

Manuela and her family are owners of Loncheria Los Mayas, a staple food cart in the Cully neighborhood, located at Alder Commons. Read more about how she and her family found housing, after-school support, and got on the path to starting their business thanks to support from Hacienda’s affordable housing and holistic programming.

Manuela moved to Portland and hoped to find a safe, affordable space for her husband and three children to live in. Her and her family eventually made it happen when they moved into apartments in Northeast Portland, but soon began facing troubles when their home did not provide adequate living conditions. Her youngest son developed asthma from the walls in their home. This situation caused worry and concern and Manuela knew they would have to move elsewhere to ensure the health of her children.

Although Manuela recognized the necessity to leave their home for the safety of her family, affordability was a priority. Up until that point, she had heard through friends and neighbors about Hacienda CDC and knew about the various programs and services. Community members encouraged Manuela to look into the possibility of renting through the community development organization as it would offer her the opportunity to live in a better environment at a price she and her family could afford. Soon, Manuela and her family of five were welcomed to one of Hacienda’s communities.

Slowly but surely, Manuela regained much-needed hope and began to look into additional Hacienda programming. In doing so, she learned about Expresiones; an after-school and summer enrichment program for youth in Hacienda communities. Even though Manuela helped her three children in whichever way possible, due to her busy schedule and limited schooling in Mexico, she knew she needed additional support for their academics. Her daughters soon obtained on-site homework help from bi-lingual and bi-cultural staff that understood them and their community and had a safe place to go spend their time after school.

Both Manuela and her husband Freddy aspired for more and wanted to build something of their own for their family. Since moving to the United States many years ago, they always dreamed of starting their own business and fulfilling this desire. With a goal and ambition in mind, they began saving to pursue this life-long dream. They soon found it difficult to navigate the many steps of starting a business alone.

“I feel like when you start something big it’s like walking in the dark...Hacienda is a like a light, a beacon, that appeared on the road”

It was at this point that they looked into the Mercado Empresario’s program, Hacienda’s program to support small businesses, from raising captial to business advising and provides bi-lingual and bi-cultural technical support to clients. Once they began the program themselves, they found clarity and a sense of direction to continue on their journey and start their own business with confidence.

In 2016 they opened Loncheria Los Mayas, a food cart in the Cully neighborhood inspired by Manuela and her husband’s indigenous Mexican roots.  This one-of-a-kind food cart can be found in Alder Commons where guests enjoy authentic regional foods—from a classic Yucatan Panucho to handmade tortillas. Every dish at Los Mayas celebrates their love for their home country and is a testament to their culture and their dreams.

Loncheria Los Mayas is far more than just a food cart. As Manuela says, “Our dream is to teach people about our culture and traditional flavors originating from the Mayan times.”.

Manuel now encourages others to learn more about Hacienda, as it is more than just proving affordable housing. She that Hacienda supports many facets of a person’s life and reflects on the support she received by saying, “I feel like when you start something big it's like walking in the dark...Hacienda is a like a light, a beacon, that appeared on the road.”

The success of their business embodies the completion of heartfelt goals. It signifies the challenges and perseverance Manuel and her family endured. From leaving their homeland to making their dreams a reality, Manuela’s journey is a roadmap for others looking to reach their dreams and Hacienda is proud to have been a part of her story.

Follow Loncheria Los Mayas on Instagram and pay them a visit at Alder Commons (4212 NE Prescott St, Portland, OR 97218).

Jaclyn Sarna, Chief Operating Officer at Hacienda

Hacienda has named Jaclyn Sarna as our newest Chief Operating Officer!

Jaclyn joined Hacienda in 2009 w s an After-School Program Coordinator in our Youth & Family Services programming. Throughout her time in Hacienda, she has served her community through Hacienda’s Youth & Family Services programming and has served as Director of Youth & Family Services since 2014. In October of 2022, Jaclyn was named interim chief operating officer, and Hacienda is honored to announce her now permanent placement as Chief Operating Officer for the organization!

Jaclyn Sarna, helping students through the Expresiones Program.

In her role as Director of Youth and Family Services Jaclyn served on the organization's Leadership Team and oversaw the Resident Services Program (serving over 2,000 residents in 10 housing communities), Expresiones (after school program for youth K-8), Portland Ninos (early childhood), and Arrobas (STEM, digital literacy, workforce readiness). She worked closely with her team to lead community engagement that informed Hacienda's housing developments, from pre-development through lease-up. Jaclyn earned her Bachelor’s in Spanish and Latin American Studies at the University of Iowa in 2007 and graduated with her Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from Portland State University in 2012.  Jaclyn is bilingual in Spanish and feels deeply proud to work in the Latinx community in Oregon. When working with community Jaclyn employs a trauma-informed approach and believes deeply in the power of popular education.

“We are lucky to have this team of dedicated, passionate teammates and Jaclyn continues to be a role model and exemplify what it means to commit to the betterment of our programming and organization”, says, Ernesto Fonseca, Chief Executive Officer of Hacienda CDC. ”She has served as a community leader for many years, and it is our honor to have her serve in this position where she can continue to apply her skills and deepen our impact in the communities we serve.”

We appreciate Jaclyn’s thoughtful leadership, stewardship, and tenacity and are grateful for her tenure and impact on our community and organization!

Hacienda is increasing its impact and growing its team.
Want to learn about new opportunities to build community? Visit our careers page.

The cutting-edge, community-driven Verizon Community Forward initiative creates opportunities for digital access and workforce development, STEM education, digital literacy, and entrepreneurial learning               

 PORTLAND, Ore., December 1, 2022 — Adults and youth in North, Northeast and Southeast Portland are experiencing new and vital connections to cutting-edge technology, STEM education, and career development opportunities with three community-driven learning centers opening today.

The new centers were created by Verizon in partnership with Hacienda CDC to remove barriers between low-income Portlanders and the tech resources they need to succeed in a digital world. These learning and innovation hubs are designed for all ages, with high-speed internet access, advanced technology, and educational and career programming.

Hacienda CDC and Verizon were joined by Portland City Commissioner Carmen Rubio and guests at the grand opening celebration held at the Verizon Community Forward New Columbia Learning Center on the New Columbia campus of Portland Opportunities Industrialization Center & Rosemary Anderson High School (POIC & RAHS).

"So many families across the nation long for access to the technology and resources they need to be successful in today’s digital world,” says Rudy Reyes, West Region Vice President & Deputy General Counsel at Verizon. “On behalf of Verizon, we are excited to partner with Hacienda and Portland leaders to enable youth and adults to develop the skills, knowledge and capabilities for a more promising future."

Hacienda CDC — In partnership with Verizon, was selected to support the development of      three learning centers in Portland. Open to students, community members and the public, the centers are located in remodeled spaces at Hacienda’s headquarters in Cully, Portland Community College’s Southeast Campus, in addition to the New Columbia campus.

“More than 60% of the families Hacienda serves in its affordable housing and programs access the internet only through their smartphones. That’s a huge barrier when you’re trying to participate in school, fill out a job application, or manage your business only through your phone,” said Ernesto Fonseca, CEO, Hacienda CDC. “Latinos, who are a large portion of families served by Hacienda, are among the communities who are under-resourced when it comes to technology. They make up only 8% of STEM workers despite being 18.5% of the U.S. population.” 

Known for developing affordable housing throughout metro Portland, Hacienda takes a holistic approach to building communities that goes beyond housing. The new Verizon Community Forward Learning Centers exemplify how Hacienda’s programs and pathways remove barriers to education, careers, and wealth building for low-income families — especially for Latinos and communities of color who historically have been shut out of opportunities.

 "I’m committed to closing the digital divide — especially in underserved communities where we see access to technology and tech education is much lower than other communities,” said Portland City Commissioner Carmen Rubio,” I commend Hacienda for its commitment to ensuring that all Portlanders — especially BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and low-income communities and those living with disabilities — have access to government, and a voice in determining their own lives."

The COVID pandemic has only magnified the barriers that low-income households face — like not having internet at home or laptops, desktops and tablets — which unfairly limit their opportunities to succeed at school and at work.

The Verizon Community Forward Learning Centers are helping Hacienda remove those barriers with advanced tech including laptops, tablets, desktops, 3D printers, audio/video recording tools, and more. These resources are coupled with programming offered through partners like Oregon State University, Free Geek and Day One Tech that will help community members use the space and launch opportunities — whether that’s learning to use a computer, developing critical STEM skills and connections to secondary education, or launching a new career or small business.

Schools and community groups who want to use the learning centers can stay tuned to future learning center events at haciendacdc.org/events. For more information on each learning center, visit haciendacdc.org/community.

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About Verizon    

Citizen Verizon is the company’s responsible business plan for economic, environmental and social advancement. Citizen Verizon empowers Verizon to deliver on its mission to move the world forward through action by expanding digital access and resources, protecting the climate, and ensuring people have the skills needed for jobs of the future. Through Citizen Verizon, and the key pillars of Digital Inclusion, Climate Protection and Human Prosperity, the company's responsible business goals include providing 10 million youths with digital skills training by 2030, supporting 1 million small businesses with resources to help them thrive in the digital economy by 2030, achieving net zero emissions in its operations by 2035, and preparing 500,000 individuals for jobs of the future by 2030. Learn more at CitizenVerizon.com.      

About Hacienda CDC

Hacienda CDC was formed in 1986 to provide necessary housing and supportive services in NE Portland’s Cully neighborhood. At that time, Cully was home to the largest Latino population in Oregon. Since then, Hacienda has grown to provide affordable housing in 10 communities in Northwest Oregon and provide supportive services to over 1500 individuals, children, and families.

As Portland’s Latino population has grown rapidly, Hacienda continues building capacity to offer our bicultural services to Latinos and other low-income families. Hacienda embraces a holistic approach, providing culturally specific services that provide opportunities to access needed resources like growing or starting a business, and buying a first home. Hacienda is Oregon’s largest Latino-led, Latino-serving housing organization and remains a trusted name in the community.

UPDATE 6.22: Our Lobitos team participated in the Oregon United Cup tournament in Beaverton. The team worked hard all season and took second place in their first weekend tournament ever! We are so proud of los Lobitos!

Hacienda’s children’s soccer team, Los Lobitos, was brought to life in our Plaza de Los Robles community thanks to the hard work and dedication of our coach, Jose Guadalupe Vazquez, and our Youth & Family Services team.

Read more of Jose’s story and what this team means to him, our youth and their families, and the community at large.

by coach Jose Guadalupe Vazquez

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One afternoon when I returned from a day of work, very tired indeed, I saw two children playing soccer, when I saw them I remembered how happy that sport has made me. I remembered in an instant my childhood and youth, in which I discovered that I had many skills and that gave me a lot of satisfaction; and as an adult the opportunity to meet many professional athletes. Unfortunately, due to my work responsibilities I had no longer been able to practice.

That was how our conversation about soccer began and I decided to find my soccer ball and go out and play with the kids for a while. We started exchanging passes and I showed them some plays and tricks with the ball. One of these children was very moved and asked me if I coached children, and I replied that in Mexico and Washington I had coached some teams. We kept playing and I quickly saw myself reflected in that little boy.

He then asked me, “Can you train us?” And I didn't have to think long before I said yes. Immediately his next question was, “How much are you going to charge us?” I smiled. The thought of playing with them had rewarded me enough, and I replied that I would not charge them anything.

“...little by little they have learned about discipline, teamwork, camaraderie, and of course, playing soccer. ”

Hearing my answer, he said, “I’ll be right back”. And I continued with my day. Five minutes later the doorbell rang, I opened the door and there were four smiling children accompanied the little boy and he excitedly told them that I would train them. That day I made not one but five little friends and days later I found myself surrounded by children who wanted to play soccer. That was how I met the children of Plaza Los Robles.

Sometimes I came back from work late, very tired, and no longer wanting to do anything, but as soon as the children saw me, they asked me if we could train, at that moment I forgot my tiredness and went out to play with them for a while. Little by little, the garden of the Plaza couldn’t fit us all, and the neighbors could no longer stand the balls hitting their doors and windows at all hours, so we decided to go play on the Middle School sports field. We would bike every Saturday and Sunday to the field. The neighbors looked at us curious to know where those children went every weekend and when they asked the kids shouted, “Vamos a jugar futbol!".

It has been a slow progress at first, because they thought that training was just some passing of the ball, but little by little they have learned about discipline, teamwork, camaraderie, and of course, playing soccer. More boys and girls have joined since the small group began, which they did not like very much at first, but little by little they earned their place and respect. And they have also surprised me because they have started to train the little ones who also want to play soccer.

“ My hope is that tomorrow will be rewarded because of what we do for the children today.”

I am very happy to know that they get along, at least that is my perception, and as some parents have told me, the children who never used to let go of their cell phones or tablets now go out to play much more.

We are so thrilled to have the new uniforms, balls, and equipment to be able to train and are thankful for everything Hacienda does to continue supporting Latino children, so that they have activities that empower them and help us grow as a community. My hope is that tomorrow will be rewarded because of what we do for the children today.

Lobitos, enjoy your family, play a lot— and get ready because next year we will continue with our efforts!

Hacienda has seen a lot of growth this past year. With so many new developments and updates, we are showing up for our community now more than ever. We are proud to announce that Rockwood Village, the first metro-bonded housing to welcome residents, now has two new staff to support the community. Welcome to Hacienda!

Blanca Munoz Villarreal

RESIDENT SERVICES COORDINATOR

Mayra Jimenez

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM COORDINATOR

Hacienda partners with PBOT to distribute Transportation Wallet

Earlier this year, Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) kicked off a new pilot program of the Transportation Wallet program for residents of affordable housing. The goal? To make it easier for residents to use the variety of transportation options available in our community. Thanks to this pilot, Hacienda’s Resident Services team distributed 60 Transportation Wallets to residents!

The Transportation Wallet is a collection of passes and credits for use on transit, streetcar, bike share and scooters, and Uber/Lyft created by the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT). PBOT partnered with Hacienda and other community organizations to provide a package of transportation options incentives, known as the Transportation Wallet, for up to 500 residents in the participating housing developments – 60 of these were distributed through Hacienda.

Hacienda residents who met the eligibility requirements to participate in the transportation wallet pilot program processed their application through Hacienda’s Youth and Family Services, Resident Services.

Flavio Garcia, Resident Services Coordinator, said feedback from participants shows “…that for folks, this opportunity is really helpful as transportation costs have become a heavy burden. The residents who participated two years ago were grateful that the event was happening again, as the need for HOP passes has increased with people returning to work and school in person.”

“These programs are very necessary in our community,” says Jessica Lam, Resident Services Manager. “We hope the program grows to meet the demand of transportation.”

Resident Services Coordinator, Mohamed Ali added, “Some folks who don’t own a vehicle said to me that they had to purchase or reload their HOP pass for about $30-$45 a month and said that this program really helped them because they are unemployed.

More information on the pilot is available here.

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