Central Oregon is a region known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and thriving communities. But beyond its picturesque landscapes and bustling cities, Central Oregon is also home to a diverse and dynamic network of organizations that play a crucial role in shaping the region's economy, culture, and social fabric.
The Central Oregon Nonprofit Community
One of the most notable aspects of Central Oregon's organizational landscape is its strong and vibrant nonprofit community. According to the Central Oregon Nonprofit Information Exchange, there are over 1,000 registered nonprofits in the region, covering a wide range of sectors including education, health and human services, arts and culture, and environmental conservation. One of the most well-known organizations in this sector is The High Desert Museum, located just outside of Bend. This unique museum focuses on the natural and cultural history of the region, offering interactive exhibits, live animal encounters, and educational programs for all ages.The museum also plays an important role in wildlife conservation efforts in Central Oregon.
The Deschutes Land Trust
is another prominent nonprofit organization in the region. Founded in 1995, this land trust works to conserve and protect land in Central Oregon for future generations. Through partnerships with private landowners, government agencies, and other organizations, the Deschutes Land Trust has helped to preserve over 10,000 acres of land in the region.Supporting Local Businesses: Chambers of Commerce
In addition to its strong nonprofit sector, Central Oregon also has a thriving business community. And one of the key organizations supporting local businesses is The Bend Chamber of Commerce.With over 1,300 members, this chamber is one of the largest in the state and offers a wide range of resources and services to help businesses grow and thrive. Another notable chamber of commerce in the region is The Redmond Chamber of Commerce. This organization has been serving the Redmond community since 1910 and is dedicated to promoting economic growth and development in the city. The Redmond Chamber of Commerce also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the popular Redmond Brewfest.
Advocating for the Community: Civic Organizations
Central Oregon is also home to several civic organizations that work to advocate for the needs and interests of the community. One such organization is The Central Oregon Association of Realtors, which represents over 1,500 real estate professionals in the region.In addition to providing support and resources for its members, this association also works to promote homeownership and advocate for policies that benefit the local real estate market.
The League of Women Voters of Deschutes County
is another notable civic organization in Central Oregon. This nonpartisan group works to educate and engage citizens in the democratic process, with a focus on promoting voter education and participation. The League also hosts candidate forums and other events to help voters make informed decisions during elections.Collaborating for Economic Development: Regional Organizations
Central Oregon's economy has been growing rapidly in recent years, thanks in part to the efforts of regional organizations that work to attract new businesses and support existing ones. One such organization is The Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC), which serves as a forum for collaboration between local governments in the region.COIC also provides a variety of services, including economic development, transportation planning, and workforce development.
The Central Oregon Economic Development District (COEDD)
is another key player in the region's economic development efforts. This organization works to promote economic growth and diversification in Central Oregon, with a focus on supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs. COEDD also offers a variety of resources and programs to help businesses start, grow, and succeed in the region.Conclusion
From nonprofits and chambers of commerce to civic and regional organizations, Central Oregon is home to a diverse and dynamic network of organizations that play a vital role in shaping the region's economy, culture, and community. These organizations work together to support local businesses, advocate for the community, and preserve the natural beauty of this unique region.As Central Oregon continues to grow and evolve, these organizations will undoubtedly play an even more important role in shaping its future.
