Nonprofit in Training: Grove Park Renewal

Grove Park Renewal was started as an effort to empower neighbors through quality, dignified housing. Much of the housing in Grove Park was dilapidated and owned by absentee landlords who had little interest in fostering community. Grove Park Renewal is developing these properties for the benefit of the current neighbors.

Grove Park Renewal is a community development nonprofit on the westside of Atlanta. Their goal is to provide stability in housing as a baseline to improving the Grove Park community. They became a nonprofit in 2019, with their new Executive Director, Justin Bleeker.

To achieve their goal, they have a portfolio of 23 rental properties, and control 27 other lots which they will be developing into rentals. Grove Park is very focused on including the community in their decision making, with seven of their nine board members being members of the community.

Justin comes from a nonprofit development background, but this is his first time as an Executive Director. “As someone new to the Executive Director role, LEAD’s focus on the nuts and bolts tangible activities needed for fundraising, board governance, and marketing and web presence have been very valuable” said Justin.

He adds “I really like the small and intimate setting. I have gotten to know the other students and the teachers in ways I wouldn’t have in a larger environment. LEAD has also provided great networking opportunities with other nonprofits serving the west side of Atlanta.”

For more information on Grove Park Renewal, click here.