What Matters to South Wasco
Who we are
South Wasco residents are self-reliant and proud that “neighbors help neighbors.” They value independence, open space, and a strong sense of community. Tribal members based in Simnasho and non-tribal community leaders work together in a collaborative, sustained, and intentional way. Residents support each other through volunteering, transportation services, school and library programs, the Grange, 4-H, FFA, and traditions like Maupin Daze, Barlow Road Rendezvous Days, the annual Garden Expo, and the Dufur Threshing Bee. Community and faith-based advocates and organizations support youth, seniors, and other underserved residents.
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How We Set Priorities
SWA’s daily work and long-term priorities start with what residents tell us they need.
2021–22 Strategic Planning.
Nearly twenty local organizations took part in a two-year planning process facilitated by the Community Consulting Project of the Organization Development Network of Oregon. At a community meeting on July 22, 2022, residents formed work groups around six focus areas: housing and accommodations; youth engagement and education; economics, including childcare and workforce development; leveraging the infrastructure; health and wellness; and the senior community. Residents described a passion for agriculture and healthy, sustainable food. They hoped for living-wage jobs, affordable housing, strong education for young people, and more opportunities to work together.
2023 Livability Assessment.
SWA sponsored an assessment of nine livability issues, including a survey of about 300 residents across ten communities in five zip codes. Economic development, housing, early child education, and behavioral health stood out as higher priorities.
2024 Regional Health Assessment.
The Columbia Gorge Health Council’s Community Health Assessment for Hood River and Wasco Counties (December 2024) identified four regional priorities: affordable housing; access to behavioral health, mental health, and substance use disorder services; access to medical care; and workforce development.
What the findings share Each report used its own method, geography, and wording, but they overlap closely on housing, economic and workforce development, and health, including behavioral health. The 2022 community meeting added youth and seniors. SWA treats the three as broadly consistent for setting priorities.
Ongoing engagement SWA has also partnered with OHSU, the Regional Accelerator & Innovation Network, and Portland State University to gather local economic data and input from entrepreneurs and small business owners. We build awareness through local networks, partner organizations, word of mouth, and regional outreach, and we carry community feedback to county, regional, state, and federal partners.