At The Next Door (TNDI), we understand that true systemic change begins from within. While we work to help other individuals, businesses, and organizations see their blind spots and address barriers to success, we also embrace those same initiatives to enhance our own services. Creating a diverse workforce with lived work experience is one of the many ways we incorporate systems change within our own organization to strengthen our team and amplify our impact on the people and communities we serve. 

Nine years ago, Carmen heard an advertisement on the radio about Abogadores de la Comunidad, or Advocates of the Community. Abogadores is a health equity group facilitated by The Next Door and they were looking for community members who wanted to join a new subgroup called Unidos Por Poder, or United by Power, to advocate for Latino community needs such as education, free or low-cost physical activities, access to healthy foods, and transportation in The Dalles. Carmen had heard from her sister-in-law that she, along with other local parents of school-aged children, had some grievances about the school district’s transportation, so she decided to attend the group’s next meeting. Not long after, Carmen learned just how dire the need was for safer transportation. 

At the heart of The Next Door lies an unwavering commitment to creating lasting change that fosters a supportive community where all children and families are safe, healthy, and valued. Over 38 programs at TNDI work diligently every day to address the immediate needs of our community and strive to change systems for the better. We prioritize not only helping those who are struggling in the moment, but also identifying the root causes of why they've fallen into hardship in the first place.  

As we wind down from a bustling summer in the Gorge, The Next Door invites the community to join us at our first annual Harvest of Hope fundraiser! Enjoy live music, food, and a silent auction with us as we celebrate the impact of our organization on our local communities this year. 

For over ten years, The Next Door Inc. (TNDI) has recognized community members' and donors’ contributions to the organization through Volunteer of the Year and Philanthropist of the Year awards. This year, TNDI has added a new award to celebrate the individuals, businesses, and organizations who have demonstrated outstanding dedication and partnership with our nonprofit, significantly contributing to our mission and initiatives by supporting and advocating for our programs, clients, and TNDI as a whole. We are delighted to announce that Sam Ko, the Oregon Department of Education’s (ODE) Education Program Specialist, is TNDI’s first-ever Community Partner of the Year!