Coalition to Strengthen the Sheldon Charter Oak Neighborhood, Inc.

Overview

The Coalition to Strengthen the Sheldon Charter Oak Neighborhood, Inc. (CSS/CON) is a nonprofit organization based in Hartford, Connecticut, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents in the Sheldon Charter Oak area. Established as a Neighborhood Revitalization Zone (NRZ), CSS/CON focuses on community advocacy, development, and engagement, with efforts aimed at fostering a vibrant and sustainable neighborhood.

Mission

CSS/CON advocates for the interests of residents within the Sheldon Charter Oak neighborhood by promoting community involvement, influencing local policy, and coordinating revitalization efforts. The organization seeks to empower residents to participate actively in the decision-making processes affecting their community.

History

Founded by Bernadine Silvers, CSS/CON has grown into an influential entity within Hartford. Silvers has played a pivotal role in the organization's development, leading initiatives such as the redevelopment of the Hartford Housing Authority's Dutch Point project into a mixed-income community. Under her leadership, CSS/CON has successfully engaged residents in various projects, ensuring their voices are heard in developments like the design of the Convention Center and waterfront areas[1][2].

Programs and Initiatives

CSS/CON has initiated various programs aimed at enhancing community welfare, including:

• Community Development: Successfully facilitated the acquisition and redevelopment of several properties, including MLK Apartments and Twin Acres, to meet the housing needs of low- to moderate-income families.

• Resident Engagement: Conducts regular meetings and outreach programs to involve residents in neighborhood planning and development activities.

• Advocacy: Serves as a representative voice for the Sheldon Charter Oak community in discussions with local government and other stakeholders.

Leadership

The organization is governed by a diverse board of directors, which includes professionals from various sectors, providing a wealth of experience in community service, law, social work, and urban planning. Key board members include:

• John Maziarz (President): A retired corporate executive with extensive volunteer experience in youth education.

• Bernadine Silvers (Director): Co-founder of CSS/CON and a long-time advocate for neighborhood revitalization.

• Emily Wolfe (Executive Director): Oversees operations and strategic planning for CSS/CON, with a background in social work and community development.

Community Impact

CSS/CON has made significant strides in improving the socio-economic conditions of the Sheldon Charter Oak neighborhood. By fostering collaboration among residents, city officials, and other organizations, CSS/CON has enhanced community cohesion and spearheaded initiatives that promote safety, engagement, and economic stability within the area.

Recognition

The Coalition to Strengthen the Sheldon Charter Oak Neighborhood has been recognized for its impactful work in revitalizing neighborhoods and advocating for residents' rights. It is considered a model for similar organizations across the state and serves as an example of effective community-driven development.

Conclusion

As a vital component of Hartford's urban landscape, CSS/CON continues to strive towards building a resilient and thriving Sheldon Charter Oak neighborhood, demonstrating the importance of community engagement and advocacy in achieving successful urban revitalization efforts.

[1] https://www.sheldonoak.org/our-staff.html [2] https://www.sheldonoak.org/our-board.html [3] http://cssconinc.squarespace.com [4] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/61546315 [5] https://hartfordnext.org/sheldon-charter-oak/