In the third year of Neighborhood Strength — our resident-led grantmaking model — the Crown Heights Advisory Council has recommended that we renew support for three community-based organizations addressing the challenge of limited public space for community engagement in the neighborhood.

Neighborhood Strength is grounded and guided by the values and concerns of our Crown Heights neighbors. Residents are key decision-makers in the grantmaking process.

The groups receiving renewal funding for 2018:

• $20,000 to Bethany United Methodist Church to open their church space to the wider Crown Heights community;

• $20,000 to Repair the World NYC to increase community access to their storefront space at 808 Nostrand Avenue to community-based organizations; and

• $10,000 to Haiti Cultural Exchange to build and engage the Crown Heights community in Haitian cultural arts in the urban garden space of Westbrook Memorial Garden and four additional community gardens.

Stay tuned to our blog this summer for a closer look at the efforts of each of these organizations!

How does Neighborhood Strength work? During a series of community visioning sessions held in Fall 2016, over 100 Crown Heights residents came together to identify top challenges and potential solutions for their neighborhood, which included access to shared inclusive public space and more green space for community gatherings. The Council recognized funding public space as an opportunity to connect people, groups, and ideas.

The Council is comprised of engaged Crown Heights residents, leaders, and stakeholders who care about their community. The Council helps us to identify key funding priorities as well as provide direction for our grantmaking approach.

We are currently seeking new passionate members for the Council! If you are interested in joining the Council, please sign up here and we will notify you of upcoming recruitment events.