Neighborhood Revitalization

Creating and Supporting Vibrant Communities

The Foundation believes in a holistic approach to revitalizing strong neighborhoods. High-quality mixed income housing, a strong cradle to college/career educational pipeline that prepares young adults for self-sufficiency, a mix of social services that supports strong families, and local economic revitalization are necessary for creating livable communities and breaking the cycle of generational poverty.

The Foundation has identified several key outcomes that guide its grantmaking in neighborhood revitalization:

  1. Neighborhoods are safe and vibrant places to live, work, learn and play.
  2. Community programs are developed with strong community input.
  3. Organizations pursue multiple strategies to improve the lives of those in poverty and encourage upward economic mobility.

Featured Grantees

Woodlawn Foundation

A partner of the Foundation, Woodlawn Foundation models a holistic approach to rebuilding strong neighborhoods. A strong education pathway starts with the James Rushton Early Learning Center and continues with the K-6th grade I3 Academy. High quality affordable housing includes the Cottages at Wood Station and new single-family homes. Woodlawn Foundation also partners with 30-40 other organizations to bring a host of services to neighborhood residents. For more information, visit www.woodlawnunited.org.

East Lake Thrive Together

Established as a collaboration of three organizations providing “2 Gen” services in the East Lake neighborhood, Thrive Together works to improve the economic mobility of families through job training and placement, safe and affordable housing, and other support services. For more information, visit www.thrivejc.org.

YWCA of Central Alabama Family Resource Center

With a mission to eliminate racism and empower women, the YWCA’s Woodlawn Family Resource Center supports families through case management, entrepreneurship workshops, compensated workforce development programs, teen programs, affordable housing, and a host of enrichment activities. For more information, visit www.ywcabham.org.