Community Development Solutions, LLC

05/13/2026

The strongest programs we've worked with usually have one thing in common long before implementation begins: they take the time to think through how decisions will actually be made once the program is operating day to day.

There is often pressure to move quickly, launch the program, and begin deploying funds. But the programs that hold up well over time tend to slow down just enough to work through real scenarios, discuss gray areas, and align around expectations early. That early clarity may not feel urgent in the moment, but it often makes the difference between a reactive program and one that operates consistently over time.

05/05/2026

The most significant risk we see in federal grant programs is not eligibility. It is how decisions are documented. In many cases, core requirements have been met. Income determinations are accurate, activities align with program rules, and the overall design is sound. However, the file does not consistently reflect the basis for those decisions. The rationale is either absent or not articulated in a way that can be understood independently of the original decision-maker.

Monitoring is not limited to confirming that a decision was correct. It requires that the file clearly demonstrate how that decision was reached. When documentation does not fully support the outcome, even well-founded determinations can be difficult to defend.

02/04/2026

The most meaningful change isn’t immediate or easy. It’s steady, layered, and often invisible at first. It requires thoughtful systems, a clear strategy, and partners who know how to stay the course.

At Community Development Solutions, we support governments, agencies, and organizations that are ready to move beyond quick fixes and create lasting impact. If your team is ready for strategic, grounded support, let’s talk.

Send a message to learn more

02/04/2026

At Community Development Solutions, we spend time in the field, inside agencies, and alongside local leaders. And over the years, we’ve heard the same misconceptions repeated — often by well-meaning professionals simply trying to make sense of complex systems. Our Principal, Alana C. Green, put together this quick visual: 5 common myths we hear all the time — and the reality we’ve learned by doing the work.

Strong communities aren’t built on good intentions alone. They’re built on structure. On strategy. On systems that serve people, not just programs. If your organization is ready to move from reactive to proactive, from short-term fixes to long-term results, we can help.

This is what we do… Let’s get to work.

11/27/2025

No matter how you’re spending this Thanksgiving Day, we hope it brings you a moment to pause, breathe, and feel connected. At Community Development Solutions, we’re grateful for the neighbors, partners, and communities who show us every day what collaboration and compassion can build. Thank you for the trust you place in our work and for the small and mighty ways you help strengthen the places we call home.

Wishing you a peaceful, meaningful holiday—filled with gratitude, good company, and the comfort of knowing you are part of something bigger.

Happy Thanksgiving from our team to yours.

08/08/2025

Yesterday, we had the privilege of supporting the City of St. Louis in convening local Community Development Corporations (CDCs) to continue the important conversations that began during April’s Community Development Week.

Sometimes, just getting 50+ City and CDC staff in the same room is half the battle. But what’s more encouraging is the energy behind it — a shared commitment to stronger partnerships and a more coordinated approach to neighborhood work.

We’re excited to see the City’s interest in growing the capacity of CDCs and investing in long-term collaboration. A heartfelt thank you to Mayor Cara Spencer, Otis Williams, and Nahuel Fefer for leaning into this work with intention.

And to the CDC teams who showed up — not just for the meeting, but day in and day out for their neighborhoods — your leadership matters. Great things are ahead and we’re looking forward to building on the momentum with more focused, theme-based discussions in the weeks to come.

07/11/2025

At Community Development Solutions, we know that real impact comes from how we show up—not just what we implement. Our latest blog post shares five key lessons learned over the past two decades in the field. From rethinking meetings to enhancing our listening and communication skills, these principles guide our work with public agencies and mission-driven organizations.

Read the full article on our website and let us know what you think!

Practical tips from a seasoned expert to help community development professionals lead with purpose, listen better, and build real public trust.

04/26/2025

What a week it’s been! 2025 Community Development Week wrapped up on a high note with a bus tour showcasing transformative CDA projects across the city, followed by a Partner Appreciation event at Intertwine Wine Bar — a recent recipient of a CDA façade grant.

Throughout the week, we had the opportunity to celebrate the impact of community development in action — from walking tours and workshops to service projects and networking events. Each day offered a reminder of how powerful collaboration, creativity, and commitment are in shaping stronger, more vibrant communities.

A heartfelt thank you to all of the partners, sponsors, and community members who made this week a success. Your dedication to building a better city is what makes this work so meaningful.

04/24/2025

On Day 4 of Community Development Week, CDA hosted a powerful full-day workshop focused on the recently released Neighborhood Transformation NOFA. With over 80 people joining in person and 200 more tuning in on Zoom, the turnout was incredible! Thank you to everyone who came ready to learn, engage, and support stronger neighborhoods.

If you missed it—or just want to revisit some of the insights—you can watch the full training here: https://www.youtube.com/live/QPTmzvMzfDM?feature=shared

04/24/2025

Day 3 of Community Development Week: Where Connection Meets Service

When CDS clients connect, something magical happens. Today, the CDA team rolled up their sleeves for a Day of Service at Guardian Angel Settlement Association, a long-time CDBG grantee dedicated to uplifting the community.

At the Social Stability Hub, CDA staff helped organize the clothing closet and food pantry—bringing order and care to spaces that serve so many. Meanwhile, others lent a hand at the Child Development Center, assisting with cleanup, reading to students after nap time, and sharing joyful moments on the playground.

This day reminded us that meaningful impact happens not just through policy, but through presence.