Comprehensive community development doesn't just happen--and it can't be imposed by outsiders coming into neighborhoods to "make them better." Real, lasting, positive change is conceived and driven when neighbors and stakeholders inside the community create dedicated organizations to lead the charge. Before change can happen in a neighborhood, effective institutions have to be in place and working together.
LISC has long been committed to assisting in the development of strong grassroots organizations inside the urban neighborhoods we serve. We help identify existing and potential leaders and create opportunities for them to meet and work together. We offer technical assistance to neighborhood-based organizations to help leaders develop their skills and get their initiatives off the ground--and capacity-building grants to help them add the resources they need to succeed.
Most important, we offer the ongoing support neighborhood groups can depend on. Comprehensive community development isn't a destination, but a journey. LISC is committed to making sure the organizations doing the hard work inside their neighborhoods have the support they need along the way.