Long-Term Payoffs
Long-term investments pay off by generating the people and organizational capacities needed to cultivate, lead, participate in and manage social change
This report tells an important story of the positive role philanthropy can play in developing new communities and affordable housing. The effort of reshaping post-Katrina New Orleans was part of what Casey calls “responsible redevelopment,” the activities and support services required to make the rebuilding process successful for low-income families and their kids through economic development and community action. The paper distills insights from the Foundation’s experience that may be useful to philanthropies and their partners in other places.
In 2005, the Annie E. Casey Foundation began working to help rebuild and revitalize a low-income neighborhood in New Orleans’ Central City that was severely damaged by Hurricane Katrina. This report summarizes the characteristics of the philanthropic approach that contributed to Harmony Oaks’ success, as exemplified by Casey’s investments and strategy.