Join MEDCO and Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity for Brewing Up Affordable Housing, a casual morning coffee event focused on the role affordable homeownership plays in strengthening our community and the importance of local investment in sustaining that work.

Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity has been building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter since 1988 and has partnered with more than 360 families across Linn and Benton counties through home construction, rehabilitation, and repair programs. During this event, Habitat staff will share recent impact, homeowner stories, and an overview of how their homeownership program works, including the education, affordability, and accountability built into Habitat’s “hand-up, not a handout” model.

As housing affordability continues to affect workforce stability and economic growth, Habitat for Humanity’s ability to meet local demand depends on strong community partnerships, particularly support from larger employers and organizations who benefit from a stable, housed workforce. This conversation will highlight current funding needs, partnership opportunities, and ways local organizations can engage more deeply in advancing affordable housing solutions.

Attendees will also learn why housing matters beyond the home itself. Research shows that homeowners experience greater economic stability, improved health outcomes, stronger educational results for children, and increased civic engagement, making affordable housing a foundational investment in long-term community vitality.

This informal morning gathering is an opportunity to learn, connect, and explore how our community can work together to expand access to affordable homeownership in our community.