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.
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...
Oak Futures Youth Employment Program
Since the 1970s, the Oakridge Neighborhood youth employment program, Oak Futures, has been a cornerstone of workforce development, creating economic pathways and training opportunities for youth. The program has evolved to meet the changing needs of young people ages...
Lessa’s Journey
At the age of two years old in 1996, Lessa Lubunga and her family fled their war-torn home country Congo, seeking refuge in a Tanzania camp. The journey was fraught with hardships, but Lessa's parents' determination remained unwavering. By the age of 19, Lessa became...
Meet Najamo Abukar
Resident Najmo Abukar is a shining star participating in Oakridge Neighborhood's youth programming. But before joining in Oakridge's afterschool program full-time in 2018, Najmo was quiet and introverted. Her younger brothers were active participants in the youth...
Taking Their Shot
Oakridge Neighborhood resident Peter Ngo was drawn to my attention by the managing editor of an area television station. He'd received a call from Peter, saying the station only covered news from Oakridge Neighborhood when something negative happened. He wanted the...
Oakridge Neighborhood: Serving Our Refugee and Immigrant Neighbors
Over 70 percent of Oakridge Neighborhood's residents are refugees and immigrants, a community of people gaining stability while preparing for the next step in their life's journey. We are uniquely suited to providing our neighbors not only quality housing but also...
James Turner: Oakridge Neighborhood was “Family”
James Turner recalls a story from his childhood at Oakridge Neighborhood. "I was on a bike and I tried to jump a dumpster. I cracked my head. Neighbors I didn't know took me to the hospital. It was like that...a strong, positive community and safe. Everyone stuck...
