For over 36 years, Our Just Future has been working with families in Portland so that they can have a stable home. Although housing is at the heart of our work, families access our services for everything from employment training to rental assistance, after-school support, and emergency shelter. We work one-to-one with folks to create individualized goals and plans because everyone’s path to housing looks different. Our programs set people up for success by building skills, economic opportunity, and support networks so that they can thrive.

John, a program participant, shared his story with us. After spending eight years living on the streets and battling addiction, John hit a turning point. He needed a job to move forward. That’s when his parole officer connected him to Debbie—a career coach at OJF. “Debbie made me feel like I could actually achieve something,” John says. OJF offered practical support like supplying work clothing and steel-toe boots, rental assistance, and gas cards. John attended financial literacy and career coaching programs to help him gain control of his life. He learned to budget, set and achieve goals, and build confidence, transforming his life and his outlook.

John got hired as an outreach worker with a homelessness services organization in Portland. What began as “just a job” became a renewed sense of purpose. “It’s not about having a job—it’s having a sense of meaning by helping others achieve their hopes and dreams, too.” With Debbie’s support, John mapped out a career path, and within 18 months on the job, he was promoted to care coordinator manager.

“I get to work with people who’ve been through what I’ve been through, and it’s the greatest feeling,” he says. John’s most challenging life experience is now his greatest asset. “Our Just Future didn’t just help me transition into society—they helped me believe in myself again,” he reflects. “Now, I’m doing the same for others.”

Your support enables us to partner with others like John and build a better future for all Portlanders, especially during these uncertain times.

Please donate generously.