REDMOND, OR -- Heart of Oregon Corps is making headway on funding for a new centralized campus in Redmond. Executive Director Laura Handy tells KBND News the new facility will enhance the youth-focused workforce development hub for the program’s ‘work-earn-learn’ model, “All of those young people have the opportunity to do hands on work... As a conservation corps, and a job training program we have lots of vehicles and trailers, and a wood chipper, and lots of complex equipment to put into place for training.”

A $100,000 donation is from Redmond-based Hayden Homes, “We’re celebrating a major gift for our campus campaign. We’re about 45% raised of an $8-million goal,” Handy says the nonprofit wants to make significant improvements, “It includes both a remodel of an existing warehouse building and covered equipment bays. And a new 9,000 square foot building for offices, classrooms, youth centers, and engagement space.” There will also be an area to park vehicles and large equipment.

Heart of Oregon Corps helps give 16- to 24-year-olds in Central Oregon access to living wage jobs in conservation, construction, childcare, and customer service. Handy says construction-industry partners recognize the need to keep workers in Central Oregon, “For local youth that are on a workforce path, might combine that with some college training, but are really looking at a career path and want to stay here in Central Oregon, that need access to a living wage job, I think careers in the trades are great examples of that.”

A check presentation and Chamber of Commerce event is scheduled for Thursday from 5:30 to 7 where guests can review the plans for the Redmond campus.