CDBG Helps Revitalize St. Louis Neighborhood

This story highlights the development of a very successful grassroots organization in St. Louis called Old North St. Louis Restoration Group (ONSL). The nonprofit began in 1981 with active residents, small businesses and other stakeholders who were focused on restoring each others’ homes. The group grew and in the 1990s received funding from the city to hire staff and create a development strategy for the rest of the neighborhood. The group since has been restoring homes throughout the neighborhood, which has resulted in a population increase of 28 percent in the past 10 years. Kaid Benfield of the Natural Resources Defense Council says Old North is one of the best revitalization projects in the country. The program is adaptable to other communities. Read more.

SOURCE: NLC.org, 5/16/11