Homeownership Fair: The Organizers’ Stories

On September 16, 2025, at the NeighborImpact Affordable Homeownership Fair at the Larkspur Community Center, the room was filled with more than information—it was filled with hope. Families and individuals came to hear from affordable housing leaders in Central Oregon about the opportunities, qualifications, and steps needed to turn their dream of homeownership into reality. But what truly moves this fair, are the personal stories behind the people who dedicate their lives to making those dreams possible.

Building Hope: Why They Help First-Time Homebuyers Find Home

For Sonia Capece, now a HomeSource Director at NeighborImpact, her journey began years ago as a young woman in Argentina, where her parents’ home was more than just walls—it was stability, safety, and belonging. When she came to the U.S., she carried that dream with her, believing homeownership would come easily. Instead, she faced rejection, confusion, and the painful realization that the system wasn’t built to be simple.

“I thought it would just happen for me,” Sonia shares. “But it took years. And I didn’t even know there were programs that could have helped.”

That frustration is what fuels her today. Sonia sits across from families who feel exactly as she once did—overwhelmed, discouraged, and unsure where to start. And she gets to tell them, “You don’t have to go through this alone.” For Sonia, each family’s success is personal, because she knows the relief of finally holding the keys to a place of your own.

Tess Spellacy’s path looked different, but her heart led her to the same place. A photojournalist by training, Tess first came to Central Oregon with a camera in hand, looking to capture stories. What she found was a deeper calling: to be part of building the stories themselves. That calling led her to Rooted Homes, where she now helps people step into houses built not only for today, but for the future—sustainable, net-zero homes designed to care for both people and the planet.

“I’ve always loved connecting with people,” Tess says. “At Rooted Homes, I get to do that while addressing something I believe in—justice, equity, and the idea that everyone deserves a safe, sustainable place to live.” For Tess, every family that moves into a Rooted Home represents more than shelter—it’s dignity, belonging, and a future where kids can grow up in a world that cares for them.

Dee Dee Johnson of Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity has witnessed transformations that bring tears to her eyes even now. In her 15 years of service, she’s seen how a home can ripple outward, changing not only one person’s life but the lives of generations.

“We’re not just building homes,” Dee Dee says softly. “We’re building futures.”

She recalls one father who was spending over $800 a month on food deliveries just to keep his family fed. With Habitat’s guidance, he learned to budget, cook at home, and take control of his finances—changes that not only helped him pay down debt but also led to weight loss and a newfound confidence. Dee Dee also shared the story of a mother who came to Habitat after surviving domestic violence. Though she arrived feeling ashamed, she was met with dignity, respect, and compassion. With stability and support, she rebuilt her life, earned her real estate license, and now dreams of helping others find the same freedom. For Dee Dee, these stories are why she leads with a simple but powerful philosophy: lead with love. “Everyone has a story. Everyone faces challenges. And everyone deserves dignity.”

Why Their Stories Matter

Sonia, Tess, and Dee Dee embody the dedication of everyone at these organizations who walk alongside the community through the often difficult journey of affordable homeownership. For them, this work is not just a job—it’s a calling shaped by lived experience, deep empathy, and an unwavering belief that a home can change everything.

Their message to the community was clear: this is all of our work. Whether you volunteer, advocate, donate, or simply share the word that help exists—your effort matters. Every act of support builds the foundation for a stronger, more compassionate Central Oregon.

Because home isn’t just a roof and four walls. It’s where kids take their first steps, where parents breathe a sigh of relief, and where families build the future they’ve always dreamed of.

There are many ways to help. Interested in learning how you can get involved? Visit neighborimpact.org to find out more.