Northwest Regional Re-Entry Center

Lower Columbia Community Action Program (CAP) was formed in 1964, as part of President Johnsons War on Poverty. Today there are over 1,100 community action programs across the nation, including 31 in Washington State, who carry on the legacy by helping people achieve their dreams for a better life. Basic to the philosophy of community action is that community identify and work together to solve their most pressing problems. Over the years, in response to needs in our community, Lower Columbia CAP has started a number of programs that grew into important, vital organizations themselves; including the Family Health Center, the Emergency Support Shelter, Ethnic Support Council, Head Start, and the Saturday Farmers Market. For over 45 years, Lower Columbia CAP has worked to realize its mission of building healthy communities, one family at a time.

History1971--A big old farmhouse on the corner of May and 11th Street in Hood River was rented to house ten teenage foster children, both girls and boys. We called ourselves the Next Door, Inc. and the state of Oregon granted us non-profit status. Many of the youth were placed directly from the mental health system. During our first seven years, three directors helped dozens of young people live in the house as they went to public schools in town. Now--The Next Door, Inc. currently has about 80 employees, half of them full-time, housed in two offices and working in 28 different programs in six counties. We work alongside struggling parents, teens and kids, to give them a chance at a good life. We are certainly proud of how this agency has served the people in our communities over the past four decades and look forward to many more years of providing assistance and leadership.SpecialtiesYou may know The Next Door from participating in one of our parenting classes or playgroups. A friend or relative may have been helped by our services to children and families. Or perhaps you've been inspired by a story about one of our clients. Whatever your connection, we truly appreciate your interest and support. Our mission: Opening doors to new possibilities by strengthening children and families and improving communities. We envision a supportive community where all children and families are safe, healthy, and valued.