Our Stories
For over 55 years, Oakridge Neighborhood has been changing lives through stable housing and responsive programming for residents and others in the community.
There are many stories of success. Here are just a few of our #OakridgeStrong stories.
Dalia’s Story
I arrived in the United States in December 2024 with my husband and our six children. We had spent the previous three years in Egypt after fleeing war in our native Sudan, where we'd been employees of the U.S. government abroad. When we first arrived in Iowa, we...
Celebrate the Legacy of Margaret Toomey
Celebrate the Legacy of Sister Margaret ToomeyJoin us for the 2025 Oak Society Reception as we honor Sister Margaret Toomey, the visionary leader who transformed Oakridge Neighborhood from a struggling housing project into a thriving community. Margaret's courage,...
Mr. Wright – A Legacy of Leadership and Service
Longtime educator, minister and mentor Clifford Wright, known fondly at Oakridge Neighborhood as "Mr. Wright," has impacted generations of young people. A Foundation Built on Family and Education Born in 1955 in Waterloo, Iowa, Mr. Wright grew up in a large family of...
From North High to Nashville
Just over a year ago, Josue Barahona walked into Mainframe Studios on a quiet Friday night, not knowing his life was about to change. A recent graduate of North High School and lifelong music lover, Josue was simply hoping to find a creative space. What he found was a...
Dr. Skylar Mayberry-Mayes: From Resident to Board President
At Oakridge Neighborhood, we know that some of our strongest leaders are people who’ve lived our mission firsthand. One of those inspiring stories belongs to Dr. Skylar Mayberry-Mayes, a former Oakridge resident who’s come full circle to lead as President of our Board...
