The impact of developing a community development corporation in a declining inner city African American community

Abstract

This creative project has explored and analyzed the creation and development of Community Development Corporations (CDCs) from a historical perspective. This project also explores various CDC models and paradigms using people and place strategies; and the technical and empowerment paradigms. This project then traces the effects of urban policies, such as Urban Renewal and Model Cities, on the community development movement.In addition, this project examines the relationship of CDCs and the African American community. The project discusses power and powerlessness in the African American community, and explores self help community development models developed by individuals such as Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Dubois.Finally, this project concludes with a case study on the Industry Neighborhood Council, Inc., Muncie, Indiana. It examines this CDCs activities from past to present, and suggests solutions for the growth and longevity of the CDC. To end, this project gives a synopsis of the community development movement and the opportunities and threats that lie ahead for CDCs.