A Weekend Focused on Community and Rebuilding
The Center for Real Estate Alumni spent the weekend in Southern Oregon, where a unifying theme quickly emerged: resilience, community, and the ongoing work of post fire recovery. Organized by the Real Estate Alumni Fall Tour Committee, Tracy Gibbons, MRED, Nate Grein, & Clayton Crowhurst, the trip offered a comprehensive look at regional rebuilding efforts while fostering alumni connection and industry engagement.
Setting the Stage: Insights From Local Leaders
The tour opened at the Ashland Public Library, where three local leaders provided perspectives that shaped the remainder of the visit. Rick Vann of SOU’s OLLI program shared insights informed by his background in hospitality and real estate. Bill Greinstein, retired from Lithia Motors, added important legal and commercial development context that grounded the group’s understanding of the region’s challenges. Phoenix Mayor Al Muelhoefer spoke about the realities of urban renewal and the long term recovery process in a community directly affected by the 2020 Almeda Fire. Their remarks framed the day with nuance and clarity.
A Redeveloped Community With Residents at the Center
The group then traveled to Talent Community Cooperative (formerly Talent Mobile Estates), where MRED alum Alex Annand guided a tour of the rebuilding effort. Once an 87 unit manufactured home park devastated by the Almeda Fire, the community is now undergoing a resident centered redevelopment led by Coalicion Fortaleza and CASA of Oregon. The redesign includes 75 new manufactured homes, two Mass Casitas units contributed by Hacienda CDC, the replacement of more than 150 trees, and continued work toward securing permanent financing. Standing on the site, participants observed the intentionality and care devoted to restoring not only housing but also dignity, stability, and a renewed sense of belonging.
Talent Maker City: A Hub for Regional Resilience
Later, the alumni visited Talent Maker City, one of the first commercial buildings to be rebuilt after the fire and now a vital resilience hub. Staff explained how the organization supports recovery through hands-on skill building, STEAM education, and creative programming that strengthens both individuals and the broader region. The visit ended with the group screen printing tote bags, a simple yet memorable way to experience the creative energy of the space.
Royal Oaks: Navigating a Long Rebuilding Process
On Sunday, the tour continued with a visit to Royal Oaks, guided by Ryan Haynes of the Housing Authority of Jackson County. Royal Oaks, another community greatly affected by the Almeda Fire, has faced a long and complex rebuilding process. Despite these challenges, the effort remains essential for returning displaced families to safe and stable housing.
A Collective Commitment to Southern Oregon’s Future
Throughout the weekend, alumni were reminded that community resilience grows through collaboration, trust, and a steady commitment to place. The Real Estate Alumni Fall Tour Committee extends its gratitude to everyone who welcomed the group, shared their experiences, and demonstrated what it means to rebuild with intention. Their leadership and dedication continue to shape a stronger future for Southern Oregon and underscore the lasting importance of the built environment.