THE TEAM
The Heart Behind the Restoration
We bring decades of professional expertise in law, finance, development, communications, and community organizing. But more than credentials, we bring personal legacy. Many of us have family stories intertwined with the very blocks we're restoring. This isn't just a job—it's our responsibility to the ancestors who came before and the generations who will inherit what we build today.
Jake Oken-Berg
Director of Government Relations
Jake Oken-Berg serves as Director of Government Affairs at Williams & Russell CDC, where he leverages over 25 years of political and policy experience to advance the organization's mission and secure critical resources for the community. His extensive background includes working with United States Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden on issues ranging from transportation and economic development to appropriations and energy.
Throughout his career, Jake has demonstrated a commitment to bridging public and private sectors to create meaningful community impact. He served as senior business advisor for Senator Jeff Merkley, managing a diverse portfolio that included trade, economic development, appropriations, manufacturing, transportation, energy, health care, defense, and agriculture. Earlier, he worked as special assistant to Senator Ron Wyden, coordinating outreach to business and industry.
Jake began his career at the Oregon Business Council, where he helped launch the Oregon Business Plan—an initiative that brought together business, government, and nonprofit leaders around a shared agenda for creating jobs, raising incomes, and reducing poverty.
In addition to his role at WRCDC, Jake serves as Vice President at Summit Strategies, where he continues to support clients in achieving policy and appropriations objectives.
Jake received his Bachelor of Arts in Politics from Pomona College in Claremont, CA.
