Oregon Harbor of Hope

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Oregon Harbor of Hope supports people rebuilding after long‐term incarceration and strengthens the systems that prevent homelessness through navigation, advocacy, and relationship‐based care.

Our History

Harbor of Hope was founded by Homer Williams, a Portland real estate developer and businessman. In 2016, Williams was inspired after a trip to San Antonio where he toured Haven for Hope, a privately funded campus that delivers a centralized, compassionate, and multi-service approach to the many difficulties facing San Antonio’s homeless population.

Williams and business activist Don Mazziotti quickly assembled a team to create Harbor of Hope, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on developing special facilities featuring systems of care that meet the broad needs of the chronically homeless and unsheltered.

"The city, county, and state are working hard to address our crisis, but they cannot solve this problem alone. The private sector must get involved to help turn this problem around. This is our city. This is our home. These are our homeless. We can make a huge impact and give people hope. They need our help."

— Homer Williams, Founder of Harbor of Hope

Our Team

Behind every program is a dedicated team committed to restoring hope, purpose, and possibility.

HOMER WILLIAMS

Founder & Chairman

PATRIZIA MONTANARI

Executive Director

ROB JUSTUS

Board Director

MO BADREDDINE

Board Director

PAST INCUBATED PROGRAMS

Art Inside Out

Art Inside Out is a trauma‑informed, evidence‑based program created by artist and author Kirk Charlton. It uses simple, accessible art lessons paired with positive dialogue to help people reconnect with identity, build emotional regulation, and process experiences in a supportive environment. The program is taught inside correctional facilities, transitional housing and reentry programs, recovery and mental health centers, and community spaces. Art Inside Out creates a space where people can express themselves, strengthen confidence, and experience healing from the inside out, no prior art experience required.

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Better Neighbors

Better Neighbors is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping marginalized people, specifically those affected by the prison system and an area of assistance with children recovery. Our goal is to improve transition opportunities and help create safe places that provide learning and growing opportunities for people in this demographic.

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Navigation Center

The River District Navigation Center in Portland, Oregon, was funded, designed, and built by Oregon Harbor of Hope. The 100‑bed shelter, located under the Broadway Bridge at 1111 NW Naito Parkway, opened in August 2019 following a public‑private partnership that supported its $3.5 million construction. The project broke ground on February 5, 2019, and was unveiled on August 26, 2019, with private donations — including a major contribution from Columbia Sportswear CEO Tim Boyle, playing a significant role in making the facility possible. Oregon Harbor of Hope initially operated the Navigation Center. In 2024, management of the site transitioned to the City of Portland, and the facility is now operated by the City.

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Laundry & Shower trucks

Cultivate Initiative is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping marginalized people, specifically those affected by the prison system and in need of assistance with addiction recovery. They envision communities that are safe, supportive, and full of opportunity. Partnering with the community, they provide services and support to our neighbors who have been marginalized and underserved. They build communities from the inside out through workforce development, housing & homemaking, and supportive sheltering.

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Kids Speak Out

Kids Speak Out is a 10-episode series launched by KOIN TV, featuring a town hall-style discussion with kids expressing their views on homelessness, drug use, social media, mental health, and other major issues in our community. This program empowered youth to share their perspectives and engage in meaningful dialogue about critical social issues.

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Harbor of Heroes

Harbor of Hero celebrated the individuals and partners who bring hope to those navigating crisis. These community champions-mentors, advocates, service providers, and volunteers, collaborate with Harbor of Hope to offer dignity, support, and a path forward. Through their partnership, we're able to walk alongside individuals from recovery, lasting connection and stable housing. By sharing their stories, we honor the power of compassion in action and inspire others to join the journey.