Our Story

In 2020, Randal Wyatt responded to the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement by creating an organization that helps Black homeowners stay in their homes, and age in place, with the intention of staving off gentrification in his hometown of Portland, Oregon. 

To start, Randal would receive requests for help from folks who heard what he was doing. Through a grassroots volunteer campaign, Taking Ownership had soon acquired a small but mighty group of volunteers ready to be involved. 

Shortly after, funding began pouring in at a staggering level. Randal began, paying for repairs at no-cost to the homeowners, many of which stopped the home from being compromised entirely. 

With the vision of creating a sustainable organization, Randal partnered with Friends of  Noise, to act as a temporary fiscal sponsor, so Taking Ownership could operate with transparency and accountability. 

In February 2024, Taking Ownership officially received their 501(c)(3) non profit status, kick starting a new chapter for the organization.

To date, Taking Ownership has facilitated over $1.5 million dollars of home improvements and Black-owned business grants. Over 125 homes have received assistance to maintain healthy homeownership.