Full disclosure: I work here, but for many years before that I was a volunteer on their speakers bureau. I volunteered with them because I am passionate about affordable housing and knew they are key players in the struggle to ensure all Oregonians have affordable housing, and because of their belief that housing gives people an opportunity to build better lives. They are not a direct service, but rather organize, train, and advocate for the affordable housing and community development industry across the state - the organizations working with people in need. When I was on the speakers bureau, we gave testimony at many important local forums, hearings and panels about the difference affordable housing makes in the lives of seniors, people with disabilities and hard working families, and I felt like government officials really listened to what I had to say. That felt great!