Program Overview

Vacant Lot Transformation → Active Assets

Output:  Neglected parcels converted into neighborhood commons, gardens, or income-generating spaces.

Outcome: Increased access to safe, green, productive spaces; reduction in blight; stronger neighborhood identity.

Neighborhood Commons Stewardship → Community Ownership

Output: Resident-led stewardship groups established for each activated property.

Outcome: Ensure long-term sustainability and prevent outside takeover.

Neighborhood-Leader Pipeline → Paid Leadership Roles

Output: Residents trained, and compensated as neighborhood leaders and property stewards.

Outcome: Expanded neighborhood capacity and leadership power rooted in lived experience.

Household Tiered Support → Wealth & Stability

Output: Tiered assistance programs for households (seniors, renters, veterans, disabled residents).

Outcome: Reduced displacement risk, increased household retention, and improved stability.

 Contracting → Residents

Output: N.E.C. contracts with residents for land care, maintenance, and programming.

Outcome: New income streams for neighborhood households, circulating wealth locally.

Neighborhood Wealth Mechanisms → Revenue Retention

Output: Establish neighborhood reinvestment funds tied to N.E.C. neighborhood assets.

Outcome: Revenue flows back into neighborhoods instead of leaving through external developers.

Green Infrastructure Integration → Climate Resilience

Output: Vacant lots redesigned with native plants, storm water capture, and carbon-reducing practices.

Outcome: Lower heat islands, reduced flooding, healthier air, energy cost savings, and demonstrate environmental practices.

Cultural Activation → Narrative Shift

Output: Amplify the  stories of these neighborhoods and their leaders.

Outcome: Shift from “neighborhoods in poverty” to “neighborhoods of innovation, resilience, and value.”

Transparent Data → Trust Building

Output: Public neighborhood data track property, progress status and outcomes.

Outcome: Increased trust, accountability, and resident engagement.

Policy Pressure & Advocacy → Systemic Change

Output: Organize Neighborhood leaders for policy engagement.

Outcome: Stronger neighborhood influence over zoning, land use, and funding decisions—ensuring resources serve residents first.