Oregon Community Foundation

A remarkable act of generosity will shape Oregon communities for generations.

Portland businessman and philanthropist Joseph E. Weston has donated the remainder of his commercial real estate holdings to the OCF Joseph E. Weston Public Foundation, bringing its endowment to more than $1 billion — the largest gift in the history of Oregon Community Foundation.

Weston grew up in Southeast Portland, with limited means but a strong work ethic. Over decades, he built a real estate portfolio and a legacy of giving. Since 1991, his foundation has awarded more than $250 million in grants and scholarships.

This gift ensures that support will continue far into the future, helping children, working families, seniors and those experiencing homelessness across Oregon.

“I grew up poor. I know what it was like to be excluded because our family didn’t have resources,” Weston has said. “I’ve also been very fortunate in my profession, and that is why the goal of the Foundation is to provide funding to support nonprofits who are helping those in need. Working with OCF has allowed me to better realize that goal now and into the future.”

Across Oregon, nonprofits are stepping up in big ways, and this spring, they’re getting a boost to go even further.

Through 258 grants totaling nearly $5.2 million, Oregon Community Foundation is supporting organizations in every corner of the state. Strengthening community well-being. Expanding economic opportunity. Building arts infrastructure. Helping families stay stable.

From a domestic violence services provider in Yamhill County…
To a Spanish-language community radio station in the Columbia River Gorge…
To an organization furnishing homes for families starting over in Central Oregon…

These investments reflect the power of local solutions.

Most of the funding — $4.77 million — comes through Community Grants, providing flexible support so nonprofits can meet rising demand, sustain staff, and keep essential programs running.

Here’s what that looks like in action:
✨ Supporting wildfire preparedness and a new volunteer fire district in the Row River Valley
✨ Expanding affordable preschool, summer camp and after-school programs on the North Coast
✨ Furnishing thousands of homes for people rebuilding their lives
✨ Providing culturally relevant services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence
✨ Connecting youth with caring mentors across Southern Oregon

“Oregon is full of people working hard to improve the lives of our neighbors across the state,” said Kim Koenig, Director of Community Programs for Oregon Community Foundation. “We’re grateful to our donors for sharing resources to support big ideas and smart solutions.”