To outsiders, Albany may simply look like a low‑to‑middle class, blue‑collar, American suburbia, but we are much more than that. We are 56,000 people living amidst the brokenness and beauty of this city, and we call it our own. Here is a picture of Albany
Under-resourced
Oregon’s 11th largest city yet ranks 81st in average income, with 1 in 6 people living in poverty.*
Resourceful
Like the pioneers who settled in Albany, the people in this city have continued in the spirit of rugged‑individualism, adapting to a hard life and difficult circumstances.
Few Opportunities
1 in 6 adults posses a college degree and unemployment rates are near 10%.*
Hardworking
Albany is an industrial city. Predominantly blue‑collar, our people work hard and find pride in what we do.
Wandering in Addiction
As a national capitol for methamphetamine production and distribution, many of our people have fallen victim to crippling addictions.
Grounded
As a farming community, the multi‑generational traditions of working the land have grounded us to this place. We love the beauty and abundance of our Valley.
Lonely
11% of Albany households are occupied by single‑parent families, with nearly 8% being single mothers.*
Community
Local events like “River Rhythms” and the “Art and Air Festival” draw the city together to celebrate culture and community.
Lost
Fewer than 10% of the city has “some affiliation” with gospel‑centered churches.
Church
There are several existing churches in this city seeking to work together with the common goal of reaching the people of Albany for Jesus.
* Statistics according to US Census Bureau, cityofalbany.net, and city-data.com