Best Stories of 2013: Community Building

Community building is a broad term. It applies to housing and commercial development, land-use, quality-of-life improvements, grassroots activity, and much more. Generocity keeps an eye out for projects that build upon communities in a way that tackles multiple issues at once. All of the projects highlighted are multifaceted in this way. They are not just housing developments or community events. They represent an intersection of interests, constituents and a number of pressing needs.

A Mix of Funding Brings LEED Platinum Certified Housing Development to Philadelphia

Written by Alex Vuocolo – December 5, 2013

The Paseo Verde housing development is a case study in comprehensive community development. It features numerous amenities, including green design and a health care center on the premises. This feature explores how the project attracted a wide range of funders. [Read more]

Philadelphia Ranked #1 in LGBT Equality: How could it impact state legislation?

Written by Natalie Hope McDonald – December 9, 2013 

The Human Rights Campaign ranked Philadelphia #1 in LGBT equality. So what’s the city’s secret formula? This feature explores the intersection of advocacy, policy and community, and how it produced a LGBT-friendly environment – while staying firmly aware that there is still so much left to do. [Read more]

Riverfront Celebration Brings Chester Businesses Together

Written by Alex Vuocolo – October 1, 2013

The Riverside Ramble has become more than a fun community event on the banks of the Delaware River. With the help of Entrepreneur Works, a regionally-based CDFI, the Ramble is an opportunity for local businesses to get together and for the community to celebrate its homegrown entrepreneurs and culture.  [Read more]

The Lean CDC: How Investing in Human Power Keeps New Kensington Clean

Written by Alex Vuocolo – July 25, 2013 

Keeping a commercial corridor clean is a tough job. It requires more than a weekly trash pickup and much, much more than periodic community events to pick up litter. In response to this daunting problem,  the New Kensington Community Development Corporation has developed a program with minimal funding that leverages one man’s hard work to keep a large swath of North Philadelphia clean. [Read more]

Onion Flats and Raise of Hope Build Affordable, Energy Efficient Homes in Logan

Written by Kate McGovern – March 14, 2013 

This is an inside look at another housing project that combined affordability with sustainable design. The report emphasizes how families are utilizing the space and its amenities for a better quality of life. [Read more]