Cities are the economic and cultural centers of America, embodying the unique American spirit of opportunity, diversity and prosperity. The strength of our metropolitan regions – and that of our nation -- is tied to the condition of our cities and their neighborhoods. And because cities are also where the vast majority of minorities, immigrants and the poor live, it is critical to support efforts that develop, protect and advance urban vitality.
In 1990, the Rockefeller Foundation helped organize a novel public-private partnership of foundations, banks, insurance companies and a federal agency that took on the challenge of revitalizing low-income neighborhoods in 23 American cities. Since that time, the Living Cities partnership has invested $375 million and created $14.3 billion in new assets in formerly distressed communities. Our commitment has translated into 127,000 units of affordable housing, new educational and health care facilities and brought retail and employment back to neighborhoods once left behind.
These achievements demonstrate the impact that results from the collaboration of a diverse group of investors, even in the face of typically entrenched and stubborn urban challenges.
The 23 Cities Atlanta
Baltimore
Boston
ChicagoCleveland
Columbus
Dallas
DenverDetroit
Indianapolis
Kansas City
Los AngelesMiami
Minneapolis-St Paul
New York
NewarkPhiladelphia
Phoenix
Portland
San AntonioSan Francisco Bay Area
Seattle
Washington, D.C.
Background
In 1990, the RF made a major commitment to advance the field of community development by organizing the National Community Development Initiative (NCDI). In its first decade with funding from foundations, banks, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), NCDI invested approximately $254 million in the work of 300 nonprofit community development corporations (CDCs) that leveraged an additional $2.3 billion, constructed 20,000 housing units, developed 1.7 million square feet of commercial space and provided thousands of jobs to inner-city residents. Encouraged by this progress, the funders committed to a second decade (2001-2010) of support, formalized the organizational structure of NCDI, and changed its name to Living Cities: The National Community Development Initiative.
Administered by the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LlSC) and the Enterprise Foundation during its first decade, Living Cities, Inc. became an independent membership organization in October 2001 when it received its 501 (c)(3) status.
Dr. Judith Rodin, president and trustee of the Rockefeller Foundation, continues to serve on the Living Cities Board.
For a comprehensive view of Living Cities, its mission, accomplishments, projects and publications, please visit their Web site at http://www.livingcities.org/index.html.
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