NEWSLETTER
About Us
Our History
First Story began in 1998 as a way for Hayden Homes employees to give back to the community. Formerly named the Hayden Giving Fund, this simple aspiration evolved into a program which creates partnerships that provide opportunities for qualified families in need of affordable housing in Oregon, Washington and Idaho. Combined with the dedication of Hayden Watson, CEO of Hayden Homes, this dream developed into a Public Non-Profit in August, 1999. In March of 2010 the Hayden Giving Fund changed its name to First Story to better serve its partners, families and communities.
Our Legacy
Robert Watson, the founder of Hayden Homes, was a pinnacle of altruistic leadership. Known for his fun loving nature and endless dedication to improving the lives of others, Robert laid the foundation for the Hayden Giving Fund and First Story. This innate sense of giving was passed down to his son, Hayden Watson. In loving memory of his father and mother, and their endless commitment to helping others, Hayden founded First Story.
Our Mission
Our Vision
Our Impact
Our housing makes a difference! First Story has been building stable homes, strong futures, and vibrant communities since 1998. First Story’s Housing Grant Program has served 41 families, 125 children and over 100 at-risk young adults. Our Community Giving Grant Program has awarded nearly half a million dollars to support underfunded programs and persons in need. To date, the program has helped over 7,000 people in low-income communities throughout Oregon, Washington and Idaho. The need for low income housing is great and we remain focused on building homes for families in need well into the future.
First Story began in 1998 as a way for Hayden Homes employees to give back to the community. Formerly named the Hayden Giving Fund, this simple aspiration evolved into a program which creates partnerships that provide opportunities for qualified families in need of affordable housing in Oregon, Washington and Idaho. Combined with the dedication of Hayden Watson, CEO of Hayden Homes, this dream developed into a Public Non-Profit in August, 1999. In March of 2010 the Hayden Giving Fund changed its name to First Story to better serve its partners, families and communities.
Our Legacy

Robert Watson, the founder of Hayden Homes, was a pinnacle of altruistic leadership. Known for his fun loving nature and endless dedication to improving the lives of others, Robert laid the foundation for the Hayden Giving Fund and First Story. This innate sense of giving was passed down to his son, Hayden Watson. In loving memory of his father and mother, and their endless commitment to helping others, Hayden founded First Story.
Our Mission
To promote giving and inspire communities through the creation of home ownership opportunities and financial support.
Our Vision
To change lives.
Our Impact
Our housing makes a difference! First Story has been building stable homes, strong futures, and vibrant communities since 1998. First Story’s Housing Grant Program has served 41 families, 125 children and over 100 at-risk young adults. Our Community Giving Grant Program has awarded nearly half a million dollars to support underfunded programs and persons in need. To date, the program has helped over 7,000 people in low-income communities throughout Oregon, Washington and Idaho. The need for low income housing is great and we remain focused on building homes for families in need well into the future.

