The oddly named Jolene?s First Cousin project in Portland offers a new, community-supported strategy to tackle homelessness Crowdfunding has brought all manner of creative projects and publications to life. A Portland, Oregon, developer believes a community fundraising platform, when applied to real estate development, can also help alleviate the pressing issue of homelessness.
Earlier this week, Guerrilla Development Company launched a $300,000 crowdfundraising drive for Jolene?s First Cousin, a forthcoming multi-use project in the city?s Creston-Kennilworth neighborhood comprised of commercial space, apartments, and housing for the homeless. Looking past the project?s cheeky name?it?s based on an off-color story about a founder?s first cousin?the project?s potential to democratize development, help the community, and potentially make money should be taken very seriously. ?The homelessness issue in Portland is extremely present, and it?s on everybody?s mind,? says Anna Mackay, a designer and developer with Guerrilla. ?This felt like our call to arms to tackle the issue.?

Jolene's First Cousin! Social Impact Crowd-Investing for Real Estate! from Guerrilla Development on Vimeo.

In addition to commercial space and two market-rate residential lofts, the two-story Jolene?s complex will also contain an 11-room SRO, or single-room occupancy, a dorm-like living arrangement where each resident gets their own 100-square-foot bedroom and access to shared common space. Six...