Community Development Corporation (CDC)
Definition
Nonprofit organizations focused on revitalizing specific geographic communities (typically low-income neighborhoods) through affordable housing development, economic development, community organizing, and social services. CDCs are governed by resident-majority boards, ensuring community control. CDCs build and manage affordable housing, support small businesses, provide job training, organize residents, and advocate for community needs. Strong CDCs are essential infrastructure in disinvested neighborhoods.
Louisville Context
Louisville has several CDCs including Americana Community Center (South End), Portland Promise Center (Portland neighborhood), Park DuValle CDC (Park DuValle neighborhood), and others serving specific communities. However, Louisville’s CDCs are chronically underfunded compared to peer cities and can’t meet the scale of need in West Louisville. Limited local foundation support and competitive government funding force CDCs to focus on projects that attract funding rather than greatest community need.
Why It Matters
CDCs provide resident-controlled organizations advocating for and serving disinvested neighborhoods. Without strong CDCs, communities lack organizational capacity to pursue development opportunities, resist harmful projects, or hold government accountable. Strengthening CDCs is essential for equitable development and community empowerment in West Louisville and other underserved areas.
Dave’s Proposal
Dave will significantly increase Metro Government support for Louisville CDCs through multi-year operating grants allowing sustained staffing and planning (funded within $1.025 billion budget). He’ll partner with CDCs on Community Wellness Centers, affordable housing, and economic development. He’ll require city-funded development projects to meaningfully engage and support local CDCs as partners.