Connect Central Oregon – Helping to champion community engagement and leadership development in Central Oregon

Building a Stronger, More Connected Central Oregon

Joining Forces in Crook, Deschutes, Jefferson Counties, And Warm Springs.

Connect Central Oregon champions community engagement and leadership development through four pillars of Volunteerism, Mentoring, Innovation, and Partnerships.

We are the toolbox for Central Oregon businesses, organizations, and individuals looking to mobilize community efforts or take them to the next level.

How to get involved

Central Oregon Volunteer Connect (COVC)

Are you an individual or team, wondering where in the community to volunteer? Or are you an organization wanting to easily engage with volunteers? Our first pillar embodies facilitating service opportunities and celebrating the value of volunteerism in our communities.

Our Volunteer Portal is a comprehensive, centralized hub designed to promote active community engagement throughout Central Oregon.
Over 250 regional organizations list opportunities and events.
COVC strengthens community ties by connecting volunteers with local organizations through coordinated days of service and engaging volunteer fairs.

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Mentoring

Our Second Pillar is all about empowering the next generation of community leaders through our Leadership Development programs.

At CCO, we recognize and nurture future leaders—whether they are organizations, groups, or individuals—who play a crucial role in steering our community’s growth and vision.
Our mentorship programs tap into the deep expertise of our partners, board, and staff, utilizing their collective skills and experiences to boost project success and drive personal and professional growth throughout the community.

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Innovation

Our Third Pillar champions Innovation, powered by CCO and its partners, and thrives with diverse thought leadership and bold approaches to tackling challenges and amplifying impact.

Through Community Innovation, CCO leverages its collective expertise to empower organizations to execute their programs and projects in innovative, more effective ways.
We encourage leaders to embrace creative thinking and implement groundbreaking strategies, cultivating a culture of forward-thinking and dynamic leadership.
We build what we wish had already been there – for the community that needs it.

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Partnerships

Our Fourth Pillar centers on forging strong collaborations with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations to drive impactful initiatives.

At CCO, partnerships are rooted in mutual understanding and shared objectives. By exchanging programs, resources, and expertise, we create collaborative initiatives that amplify the impact and extend the reach of all involved organizations.

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2026 Winter Event menternships

January 1, 2026
Winter menternships (mentored internships) are available. Work with our COOP partners to learn HANDS-ON audio, video, lighting, and production at high-impact events.

Hayden Homes, Dancing with the Stars, Soapbox Derby…and more!
Ideal for adults and college students
High school program available
Training @ $15/hr, events @ $20-25/hr

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MLK Day of Service 2026

Monday, January 19, 2026

To honor Dr. King’s legacy of social justice and equity, MLK Day of Service Opportunities are available across Central Oregon. Community members can register to:

Engage with others to create community;
Act on Dr. King’s legacy of social justice and equity;
Recommit by volunteering to serve others.

The Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service is a focusing event each year when communities across the country choose to engage in “a day on, not a day off” through volunteer service, and thousands of people take action to create the Beloved Community of Dr. King’s dream. His example is our call to action.

MLK Day is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service to encourage all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities. During the last quarter-century, the MLK Day of Service has grown, and its impact has increased, as more Americans embraced the idea that citizenship involves taking an active role in improving communities.

The full list of opportunities is available via the Central Oregon Volunteer Connect website:

Enriching Lives Through Community Action

Helping To Champion Community Engagement and Leadership Development in Central Oregon

Connect Central Oregon (CCO) is committed to enriching the lives of individuals and organizations in Central Oregon by fostering a culture of volunteerism, mentorship, and innovation. Through strategic partnerships, we mobilize and amplify community efforts, cultivate emerging leaders, and encourage innovative solutions to meet the challenges of our time.

Wanting To Make a Difference in Your Community But Unsure Where To Start?

The Challenge

Perhaps you’re a leader or a company eager to make a meaningful impact. Maybe you’re seeking opportunities to volunteer your time and skills, or you represent an organization needing compassionate hands for your initiative. That’s why we’re here. Let us be your bridge to meaningful community engagement.

What We Focus On

Empowering Our Community, Nurturing Leaders

Community Involvement

We connect individuals, groups, and organizations with impactful opportunities that align with their passion, values, and needs.

Leadership Development

We're committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders through mentorship and support.

Innovation

We guide individuals and organizations to deliver their programs and projects in more efficient and impactful ways.

Partnerships

We build strong collaborations helping people create greater reach and effectiveness in serving our community.

Our Programs

Building Bridges, Fostering Community

Central Oregon Volunteer Connect (COVC)

Our region’s go to resource for individuals and groups seeking volunteer opportunities throughout Crook, Deschutes, and Jefferson Counties, and for community organizations seeking volunteers.

Central Oregon Open Programming (COOP)

Discover the power of open programming, amplifying voices, and fostering community engagement.

Central Oregon Open Programming Media Group (COOP Media Group)

Facilitating content development and distribution with an open-source model, promoting diverse voices and perspectives.

How to Get Involved!

Here’s how you can take action today

Volunteer

Explore service opportunities throughout Central Oregon for individuals, groups, and organizations.

Mentorship

Join us as a mentor or mentee and grow as a community leader through our structured and unstructured mentoring and internship programs available year-round.

Partnerships

Let’s work together on collaborative initiatives that enhance the capabilities and reach of all involved organizations.

COOP

Discover the power of open programming, amplifying voices, and fostering community engagement.

Join Us in Shaping a Stronger, More Connected Central Oregon

Your support can make a real difference