PROJECT NARRATIVE
Organizational Overview Provide a brief history of the organization and its work in the stadium neighborhoods. Explain the fit between the organization’s mission and the proposed project. NOTE: This is your opportunity to convey your successes and to make the case that your organization is the right one to implement this project. OUR MISSION SNDC’s exclusive purpose is the charitable, economical, educational and social development of the community. This includes the welfare, independence, and self-sustaining survival as a core Atlanta neighborhood. The organization hopes to return to the original quality of life that was once attained within this downtown neighborhood of Atlanta, Georgia. OUR HISTORY Organized in 1988 and officially incorporated in 1991, Summerhill Neighborhood Development Corporation (SNDC) exists to combat the legacy of redlining in the Summerhill neighborhood. Once a community of affluence largely inhabited by freed slaves and Jewish immigrants, a series of factors – including the intentional bisection of the neighborhood by the I-20 interstate and other unfavorable and racially-based political decisions, riots, and resulting suburban flight – triggered a steep decline in the neighborhood, leaving behind a poor, isolated African American community frustrated by the conditions of the neighborhood and its residents. Galvanized by the killing of a blackman by a police officer and a subsequent riot in 1966, residents came together to form a neighborhood organization, Summerhill Neighborhood Inc. Eventually, residents recognized the need for an entity to bring quality low and moderate-income housing to the neighborhood. Since 1991, SNDC has developed over 150 low-income homes in the neighborhood with various construction and family partners, embodying our mission to establish programs and partnerships that inspire, educate, empower, and advocate with residents to strengthen the Summerhill community. SNDC has proudly served as the development catalyst for many projects including Greenlea Commons, The Orchard Subdivision, Terry Place, Richmond Heights, a hotel, and other projects. OUR TRACK RECORD OF SERVICES In addition to development efforts, Summerhill Neighborhood Development Corporation operates several programs, including: Provided trips to the grocery twice a month for seniors and low-income families without cars, allowing families access to fresh produce and wholesome foods at affordable prices (Summerhill is classified as a “food desert” by the USDA). A community center with access to a computer lab opened daily to any resident during office hours. The lab provides a place for students without access to computers to complete homework, as well as a place for adults seeking to become familiar and proficient with computer technology. Summerhill Neighborhood Reunion, which brings together new, tenured, and former residents to build community and establish and re-establish relationships. SNDC is solely responsible for the event, which attracts hundreds, including public officials as well as business and community leaders. After school tutoring, which provides elementary- and middle-school aged students with at least one hour of assistance with homework per child and a healthy snack. In addition to assisting in meeting children’s educational needs, this also provides a safe afterschool environment for children whose parents may not be to afford alternate aftercare options. Senior Socials, which provide outings and activities to our senior population.
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SUMMERHILL COMMUNITY UNITY FESTIVAL // Community Serving Summerhill Community
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