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Issue Areas

Neighborhoods are complex systems that require many elements to work well, from decent housing and safe streets to employment opportunities, good schools, and access to shopping, health care and other services.  While specific challenges and opportunities vary from one community to the next, the following elements come up again and again as communities work to improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods. 

 Here are the most talked-about approaches to change and a set of tools for each. 

Arts and Culture

Across the country, communities are developing new and creative ways to use arts and culture to… Continue

    Commercial and Economic Development

    Under-served with retail stores and services, many neighborhoods seek redevelopment of old retail… Continue

      Community Safety

      Many neighborhoods face serious gang-related violence and, often in the same neighborhood, the… Continue

        Education and Early Learning

        From early childhood education, through high school and beyond, preparing children for school and… Continue

          Family Income and Assets

          Many community challenges can’t be overcome if families live at poverty levels, so… Continue

            Healthy Residents

            You can’t work or learn well if you are physically or mentally unhealthy, so many communities… Continue

              Housing, Foreclosures and Vacant Properties

              Stable, quality housing is a key component of a healthy neighborhood, but local markets vary… Continue

                Parks, Open Space and Greening

                New spaces for recreation or greenery can include new walking and biking trails, parks and… Continue

                  Youth Development, Sports & Recreation

                  Research is proving that gathering places, recreational facilities and sports opportunities are… Continue

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