Renewal by Design

Community Engagement
While POAH’s investments may have been Woodlawn’s catalyst, partnerships with
others have created the change which, in turn, is creating greater partnerships and the
building of an ever-closer-knit community. From block clubs to the creation of arts
groups, the civic life of Woodlawn is stronger than ever.
Violent crime in this neighborhood is down 40% in the last eight years through the work
of the local police district, the Woodlawn Public Safety Alliance and others.
POAH collaborated with the Woodlawn Public Safety Alliance and hired local residents
to create “Safe Passage” corridors for Woodlawn children attending school.
In partnership with a local arts group and the Chicago Community Trust, POAH hosted
“Sol Fest,” an arts-themed family festival designed to encourage neighbor-to-neighbor
connections through an afternoon of live performances.
POAH has constructed a new 15,000 square foot community center at the heart of
the Woodlawn Park development. The Woodlawn Resource Center offers
social service support to Woodlawn Park residents and employment/workforce
development opportunities to the entire community. In 2015, approximately 115
residents secured employment through the Woodlawn Resource Center.
The Woodlawn Children’s Promise Community, in conjunction with Urban Education
Institute, has designed a comprehensive educational initiative to improve access and
outcomes from early childhood through college, for all Woodlawn children.