When people think about making homes wildfire resilient, they often think about building them that way from the ground up. That is an option—which currently is only 2–11% more expensive on average—but what about the rest of us who live in already-built homes?

Fortunately, there are many ways to make those structures—and other buildings—wildfire resilient as well, including through state grants, incentives, and education about simple and cost-effective steps that can be taken on any home

This meeting, coming up on Sunday, May 17 at 3:00 pm, will feature a presentation from Jacky Lee of 1000 Friends of Oregon, who will be providing a virtual tour of the new Housing Solutions Center and sharing information about ways to engage in local advocacy for a better housing future.

The Housing Solutions Center is designed to provide policy resources for community advocates, public officials, and developers to address the unique housing challenges each community faces. We provide evidence-based information and message-tested communications to ensure you and your neighbors are working together effectively to find win-win solutions.

(Image courtesy of Rooted Homes)

This Oregon Wine Month and Wildfire Awareness Month, 1000 Friends of Oregon is proud to feature Winter’s Hill Estate, a Yamhill County vineyard where three generations of the Winter and Gladhart family have built a legacy rooted in care for the land and a deep sense of responsibility for its future. They are also navigating an era of increased wildfire frequency and intensity with thoughtful and innovative approaches—creating hope for the future of Oregon wine.

"There is a lot of work, and sometimes pressure, to maintain what has been built over the years,” Russell Gladhart says. “There is also great satisfaction to see the land in good condition, ready for the next generation to implement their dreams and ideas.”

Learn what happens when communities come together, share stories, and organize. Spoiler: They envision and enact policies that create more livable communities for everyone!

Land ownership and land use policies and processes have historically propagated and exacerbated inequalities around the nation, and in Oregon. 1000 Friends works to reverse discriminatory practices, policies, and impacts on people.

1000 Friends of Oregon works with Oregonians to enhance quality of life by building livable urban and rural communities, protecting family farms and forests, and conserving natural areas.