New Beginnings for Homeowner on Juneteenth

Last month, Taking Ownership PDX partnered with the team at Works Real Estate for a volunteer project on Juneteenth, making significant strides in aiding two homeowners in need. This initiative involved two homes that were across the street from each other.

Home One was the culmination of a year-long effort to clean-up and address minor code corrections that were causing liens and fines on the property. The homeowner, whom we met while assisting her neighbor, initially sought the help of Taking Ownership with yard maintenance. Upon learning that her mother had purchased the home nearly 50 years ago and that it had fallen into disrepair and faced $90,000 liens and fines, we committed to helping her reclaim her property.

Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, community support, and partnerships with city programs focused on racial justice such as the Empowered Neighborhoods Program, we successfully closed the compliance case and cancelled all liens!! This monumental achievement marks a fresh start for the homeowner, who is now back to baseline!

Jed Overly, Taking Ownership PDX’s volunteer director, said, "This homeowner will be starting completely fresh moving forward. So this is a good day for that type of project. It's hands down one of my proudest accomplishments during my time at Taking Ownership PDX."

Home Two needed extensive yard work and cleanup to restore the outdoor space. Volunteers from Works Real Estate dedicated their time and effort to transform the yard, creating a cleaner and safer environment for the homeowner to enjoy!

At Taking Ownership PDX, we're dedicated to empowering our community through homeowner advocacy, restoration projects, and community building. Your support through volunteer work helps us provide essential resources! Join us in making a difference – visit our website today to become a volunteer!