This is the beginning of a story about Central City, in New Orleans.

It is my dream to see my neighbors rise out of the rubble of what is considered the most dangerous neighborhood in the most dangerous city in the nation. I vision uniting local believers in Christ by being an active participant in sharing life's ups and downs together with neighbors through food, service, conversation, and worship. I dream of a true neighborhood church, where most people are within walking distance and help the community by living in it, sharing life together, and growing in Christ together. 

The beginning has started as I have purchased my first home, and begin to listen, relate and serve with my neighbors.

History of Central City:

In the 1900's it was a bustling African American commercial district, and around the 1960's it started to decline and by the 90's it was predominately blighted. A large part of Central City was not affected by Hurricane Katrina, since it sits in pretty high ground, yet there are many abandoned and uninhabited homes. Central City was the home of the Melpomene, Calliope, and C.J. Peete/Magnolia projects, of which all 3 are going through redevelopment. Central City is also where 2 big rap labels, Cash Money Records, and No Limit Records were started. Mid 2006 Central City was considered the most dangerous part of the city according to murders and crime activity in the New Orleans area.

What has happened so far:

So far with the help of volunteers and friends we have painted a chain link fence, moved debris, and put up a roof with the help of wonderful volunteers from Tennessee, Florida, Ohio, and many other states. We have thrown a block party in which neighbors have expressed that its the biggest one thats happened in a while.

Currently:

I will spend the next year until June 09 listening to my neighbors, and then developing a strategy that involves the issues that are at the forefront of my neighbors lives.

I am also currently going to seminary at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary learning about the Bible in pursuit of M.Div degree.

Projects in the works:

 Urban Farms: This idea has developed out of realizing the need for business within the neighborhood, in order to employ some of the residents. The goal of this would be to develop a sustainable urban farm business to employ and mentor neighborhood residents in faith. So far I have been in talks with the city about acquiring a few lots to do Urban Farming. There are also a few other community partners and organizations that are interested in this happening. This is a big project, and each lot will take about $15,000 to get up and running, but the impact could be humongous. The goal is to develop 2 commercial growing lots, 1 citrus orchard, 1 wetland restoration lot, and 1 community garden. If you want to or think you can help please let us know.

There is more info on projects here.

 2 unit Community House: This would serve as a place of refuge for transitioning people from renting to home ownership, as well as intern/ministry housing. I have a property in which I am trying to renovate. It will take about $15,000 to complete renovation. The Homeownership mentorship program vision is to help and mentor renters by charging the standard rent rate, and putting $200 of it into a savings account for them that would be released upon their purchase of their house. The other unit is to provide the space and opportunity for people to be able to afford to live and learn about inner city community development and ministry by living in it. 

After School Tutoring: This summer, we are going to try or organize a system in which we we can provide after school tutoring for the kids in the neighborhood.

Non-Profit Status: So far we have been operating in a small scale with the government. We are wanting to be legit, and to be able to apply for grants and establish the credibility, and flexibility in becoming a community develoment corporation