Specialties
Since 1966, Impact NW has been a leader in providing people of all ages with the skills and resources necessary to achieve independence, reach their goals, and to advocate for themselves and their communities. Our programs serve to inspire hope & empower independence through housing support, jobs & career support, education, family support, and senior services. Get support or get involved at www.impactnw.org
History
Established in 1966.
In 1966, with poverty on the rise in their community, a group of neighbors in SE Portland came together to take action. They dreamt of a community that valued the right of all people to thrive, no matter where they came from or what they had been through. Bit by bit, they realized their dream by organizing employment programs, family counseling, food buying clubs, a tool lending library, and academic enrichment opportunities. While our scale has grown, we take on today's challenges with the same spirit as our founders. Like them, we believe that everyone deserves a chance.
Meet the Business Owner: Jeff C.
As an attorney, an entrepreneur, and a non‐profit and political leader, Jeff has helped mission‐driven organizations in Portland thrive for nearly 25 years by fostering innovation and collaboration.
He served as Chief of Staff for City Commissioner Dan Saltzman before being elected as Multnomah County Commissioner and County Chairman. Jeff founded Portland Pretzel Company, the first certified organic bakery in Oregon, at Portland Saturday Market, and grew it into a nationally distributed specialty food company.
He has also served as board chair for the Portland Human Rights Commission, the Governor's Transportation Electrification Commission and Hands on Portland and on the board of directors of WorkSystems Inc., Greater Portland Inc., Drive Oregon, the Institute for Portland Metropolitan Studies and KOREducators.
Jeff received his Bachelor's degree from Brown University and his JD from UCLA. He lives in Northeast Portland with his wife and two children.