The Mills Act Program can allow owners of historic properties to enter into contracts with local governments, providing economic incentives for the restoration and preservation of historic buildings. Owners of historic buildings may qualify for property tax relief if they pledge to improve and maintain the historical and architectural character of their buildings for at least a ten-year period.

This program is especially beneficial for recent buyers of historic properties and for current owners who have made major improvements on their properties. Note that the Mills Act Program is different from the Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program (pdf), but the two can often be used together by a nonprofit organization. Participants may realize substantial property tax savings between 40% and 60% each year because valuations of Mills Act properties are determined in a unique way.

Local governments decide whether and how to implement the Mills Act Program in their area; property owners in Oakland can refer to this brochure (pdf) and get in touch with their local Mills Act contacts for more information.

To grow and continue to strengthen the community, Alameda County’s nonprofits need access to local real estate resources. This site connects you with service providers and government agencies for your real estate project so that your program will thrive.

We are actively seeking partnerships and information regarding your county. Please contact us with pictures, suggestions or ideas. In the meantime, feel free to post your space needs and connect with other nonprofits in your county.

Rebuilding Together unites volunteers to bring warmth, safety and independence to their neighborhoods by revitalizing homes and community facilities. Neighbors come together several times a year, combining their unique skills to solve problems in the area, from fixing an elderly resident’s leaky roof to providing much-needed maintenance for community centers. Nonprofit organizations can find application materials online for free facilities renovations and repairs.

Rebuilding Together Oakland volunteers renovate the facilities of nonprofit organizations that serve low-income and under-resourced communities.  In one project, Rebuilding Together coordinated a league of volunteers to provide cleaning, gardening, painting and repairs for Mosswood Park. Nonprofit organizations can apply online for facilities repairs, with most of the projects occurring during the April Rebuilding Program.

Lao Family Community Development, Inc. received a $502,500 loan from NCCLF for a new building in the San Antonio neighborhood to help them expand their services.  The organization assists diverse refugee, immigrant, limited English, and low-income U.S. born community members in achieving long-term financial and social self-sufficiency.

The Las Positas College provides free access to grantmaker directories, books on fundraising and nonprofit management, and the comprehensive database Foundation Directory Online Professional.

The Unincorporated Alameda County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds public improvement projects located in and/or serving residents of Ashland, Castro Valley, Cherryland, Foothill Knolls, Mt. Eden, San Lorenzo, and other unincorporated areas of Alameda County. CDBG funding supports projects that strengthen the community and improve the quality of life for low-income residents. Nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply for these funds through a grant process.