STORIES & IMPACT

Elevating Community Voices. Demonstrating Real Impact. Shaping the Narrative.

Community development is more than programs and projects. It’s people, progress, and possibility. We amplify the work of our members by sharing stories, data, and insights that show how CDCs strengthen neighborhoods and why their work is essential to a thriving St. Louis.

Partnership

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Collaboration

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Stronger Together

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Partnership · Collaboration · Stronger Together ·

What We Do

We Tell the Story of Community Development... Together

We work with our members and partners to share a unified, powerful story about the impact of community development organizations through

Our Focus

Sharing Member Stories That Show Real Impact

We highlight the people and organizations driving neighborhood change every day through case studies and short-form videos to align stories with policy and funding priorities.

Publishing the CBN Network Impact Report

To track trends, strengths, and gaps, we create a visually accessible Network Impact Report. These findings are publicly shared to support transparency and trust and collective advocacy and investment efforts.

Building Public Understanding of CDCs

We help residents, funders, and policymakers better understand what CDCs do, why they matter and emerging community priorities with plain-language educational resources tailored for all audiences.

Celebrating the Work at an Annual Convening

Each year, we bring the community together to reflect, learn, and celebrate progress at our Community Development Family Reunion.

What Changes Because of this Work

By sharing consistent, data-informed stories, we shift how community development is seen and supported:

  • CDCs are increasingly recognized as essential partners in neighborhood stability

  • Funders and policymakers align around a shared understanding of impact

  • The sector speaks with a unified, trusted voice

  • Public awareness of CDCs grows, strengthening trust and support

  • More investment flows into community development work

A Stronger Narrative. A Stronger Sector. Greater Investment.

  • Help Us Tell the Story of Community Development

    When communities share their stories, change becomes visible and possible.

    Explore Stories →

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  • Connect with Us!

    Visit these pages to learn more!

    Community Calendar →

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    ‍Join the Annual Convening →

  • 🏆 Meet our 2026 Community Building Awardees!

    The 14th Annual Community Development Family Reunionwas held April 23, 2026 at Third Degree Glass Factory to celebrate progress, exemplary leadership, and connection. Our annual event aims to serve as a reminder that small steps lead to big change, and that communities across St. Louis are doing the work every day to make a difference. We encourage you to nominate a local changemaker, connect with us, and continue to build up the community! →