A Message from Our CEO, Helen O’Sullivan
As we wrap up the year, our team continues to champion innovation, collaboration, advocacy, and opportunity in housing across Southern California. From thought-provoking community conversations with local leaders to advancing programs supporting first-time homebuyers, and working alongside CCCI to advocate for the critical role of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), we’re closing 2025 with momentum and deep gratitude for all who make this work possible.
Thank you for being part of the NeighborWorks Orange County community.
NWOC Advocates for CDFI Support with Assemblymember Valencia
NeighborWorks Orange County (NWOC) was pleased to join the California Coalition for Community Investment (CCCI) in meeting with Assemblymember Avelino Valencia to discuss the critical role Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) play in expanding access to affordable homeownership and community investment across the state. Together, we highlighted how CDFIs help fill lending and capital gaps in underserved communities, providing flexible financing, education, and resources that traditional institutions often overlook.
The discussion also highlighted NWOC’s role as one of the collaborating partners that helped secure gap funding for The Salvation Army’s Center of Hope project, a homeless shelter with a 325-bed capacity, 72 units of permanent supportive housing, and a campus-style community center with essential amenities. This project exemplifies the power of cross-sector collaboration in creating stability and opportunity for individuals in need.
We sincerely thank Assemblymember Avelino Valencia for taking the time to engage in this important conversation and for his ongoing commitment to strengthening opportunities for California families. We also extend our gratitude to Rachel Mueller at CCCI for her leadership and coordination, and to The Salvation Army for their continued partnership and dedication to serving vulnerable populations.
This meeting underscored the importance of continued legislative support for CDFIs as we work toward equitable housing solutions and long-term economic opportunity for California residents. We look forward to ongoing collaboration with Assemblymember Valencia, CCCI, The Salvation Army, and our community partners to strengthen investment in communities across Orange County.
Restore the Legacy LA Coalition Resource Fair
As a community partner of the Restore the Legacy LA Coalition, NeighborWorks Orange County participated in a resource fair on November 1, 2025, supporting families impacted by this year’s wildfires..
NWOC continues to offer housing counseling with low-cost construction management, technical guidance, mission-driven real estate services, and estate planning assistance offered by other key coalition community partners.
Join us at the final resource fair of 2025 on Saturday, December 13, 2025. Call 213.381.2862 or visit www.nhslacounty.org to register.
Small-Scale Housing Summit
NeighborWorks Orange County joined the Small-Scale Housing Summit hosted by Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento’s office on November 5, 2025, at the County Conference Center in Santa Ana. The event gathered housing leaders, developers, and advocates to discuss tiny homes and modular housing as faster, cost-effective solutions for addressing homelessness and the shortage of affordable housing. Speakers emphasized public-private collaboration and innovative land use to expand small-scale housing opportunities across Orange County.
Community Voices in Action
NWOC’s Brenda Magaña also represented the organization at a local community rally, connecting with U.S. Congressman Lou Correa (46th District) and Assemblymember Avelino Valencia (68th District). We’re proud to continue these vital conversations that support housing access and community development throughout Orange County.
OC Forum Signature Housing Luncheon
NeighborWorks Orange County attended the OC Forum Signature Housing Luncheon on November 13th, featuring leading voices from Lowe, SDRE, Intracorp Homes, and Jamboree Housing. The event explored creative housing solutions — from mixed-use redevelopment to attainable workforce housing — advancing collaboration and innovation across the region.
Ribbon Cutting at Bishop Manor
Thank you to KidWorks for inviting NWOC to the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the new Community Center at Bishop Manor in Santa Ana! Our very own VP of Operations, Brenda Magaña, joined partners and local leaders, including KidWorks CEO David Benavides, to celebrate this milestone for neighborhood revitalization.
Special thanks to Scott Kutner of HOA Community Fund of Orange County for his continued dedication to community reinvestment.
Wells Fargo STEP Forward Pilot Program Kickoff
On October 18th, NeighborWorks Orange County officially launched the Wells Fargo STEP Forward Pilot Program — helping first-time homebuyers build financial confidence through education, savings support, and lending access.
We’re grateful to Wells Fargo for partnering with us to expand housing opportunities and help more Orange County families achieve the dream of homeownership.
Coming Soon: The 2026 Homebuyer Club
Launching early next year, the NeighborWorks OC Homebuyer Club will help first-time buyers navigate every step of the homeownership journey — from budgeting and credit building to choosing the right mortgage and closing with confidence.
Participants will gain access to:
• Interactive webinars
• Expert guidance and Q&A sessions
• Personalized tools and resources
Interested? Click here to register.
Plan Ahead: 2026 Classes and Events Are Live!
Our full calendar of 2026 workshops, classes, and community events is now available! Explore opportunities to strengthen your financial knowledge and achieve your homeownership goals.
Blog Highlight: Lending For The Community
Our latest blog highlights how NWOC is expanding access to homeownership through inclusive lending and down payment assistance programs. With monthly webinars and strong lender partnerships, we’re helping first-time buyers bridge the affordability gap and achieve sustainable, long-term homeownership.
Every program, partnership, and event this month reinforces our belief that home is the foundation of a thriving community.
Thank you for your continued support and collaboration. Together, we’re building brighter futures across Orange County — one family, one home, and one neighborhood at a time.
Thank you,
The NeighborWorks Orange County Team
