Our story is similar to many people who have moved to Bend.
We had been visiting for years. Then, on a flight back to Denver in 2017, we both had an “aha moment.” We knew Bend was where we wanted to build the next chapter of our lives.
Two years later, in the summer of 2019, we made the leap and relocated our family.
The funny thing is, lobbyist and creative director are not exactly the obvious job titles for starting a coworking business. Sara came from the world of lobbying and public policy. Kent came from creative direction and media.
But the more we sat with the idea, the more it made sense.
Work-Collective was never just about desks, offices, or meeting rooms. It was about creating a place where people could feel welcome, no matter their profession, background, age, gender, or stage of life.
We believed a coworking space should help people feel less isolated. It should give remote workers, entrepreneurs, small businesses, nonprofits, and growing teams a professional place to work and a community where they can build real local connections.
That idea became Work-Collective.
A comfortable, professional, locally rooted workspace where people can focus, connect, and thrive personally and professionally.
Part of our desire to move to Bend came from wanting to build a more vibrant life for ourselves and our family.
In Denver, we felt like we were stuck on the hamster wheel. We had two busy careers, two active young kids, and a growing sense that we were spending too much time pushing through each week just to get to the next vacation or long weekend.
We wanted more space for the meaningful parts of life: family, friends, time outside, and real social connection.
As Denver and the surrounding areas continued to grow, the places we loved became harder to access. The trails, mountains, and outdoor spaces that once gave us energy started to feel crowded and difficult to enjoy.
Leaving was not easy. We left behind our home, friends, family, and yes, even our chickens.
But the decision has exceeded our expectations.
We truly love this community and are grateful to call Bend home.
Work-Collective grew out of that same desire for connection. We wanted to create a space where people could do great work, feel known, and be part of something local.
If you have read this far, thank you.
We hope our story gives you a better sense of why Work-Collective exists, and why building community in Bend and Central Oregon matters so much to us.
We would love for you to be part of it.
Work-Collective gives you the flexibility to work in the way that fits you, with the support of a professional community around you. If you’re looking for a place that helps you focus, stay connected, and grow, we’d love to welcome you.