Thriving Neighborhood Initiative: A Powerful Culmination in Clinton Hill

On November 12 we held our final meeting in the Clinton Hill community conversation series for the Thriving Neighborhoods Initiative. It was more than just a gathering, it was a powerful wrap up of months of connection and conversation with partners. The space buzzed with an excitement that spoke to the deep commitment residents have for their neighborhood, and we left feeling inspired by the shared vision for what lies ahead.

The evening was a testament to partnership and careful planning of our lead Clinton Hill neighborhood partners, BRICK Networks and Clinton Hill Community Action. In total they curated more than a dozen community meetings, creating a foundation of trust and open dialogue that made the evening so impactful. BRICK's Director of Community Engagement Jamelia Lewis‑Ridgird, Resident Powerbuilding Manager Shakur Gibson, and Rhenotha Whitaker, deputy director programs, impact and innovation of Clinton Hill Community Action, organized the deep community engagement that was a key part of the preparatory meetings, and guided conversations on the culminating night with grace and ensuring every voice was valued. It was a perfect example of what can happen when community-led efforts are given the space to flourish.

As Dominique Lee, chief executive officer of BRICK Networks and South Ward Promise Neighborhood reflected, the room was filled with so many new faces, people who are not always at every meeting. This is an important signal of the growing momentum and engagement in the neighborhood.

Khaatim Sherrer El, executive director of Clinton Hill Community Action, shared that the room reflects the people-powered movement we've been building in Clinton Hill and the work to rebuild trust so that residents believe they can both be a part of positive changes in the neighborhood and that those improvements are for them. Clinton Hill Community Action is deeply valued partner of the Victoria Foundation, that is well known for their work not only listening to community priorities and challenges but working to proactively problem solving collaboratively to reach them.

A highlight for everyone was the contributions of the young people in the room. In particular, two BRICK students spoke from the heart with a power and professionalism that drew us all in. Their insights were not just motivating; they were a clear directive. They reminded us that the future of our communities is ours to create, and that youth are not just leaders of tomorrow, they are leading right now.

For our team at Victoria Foundation, these meetings are an essential part of our work. We believe our role is to be present, to listen, and to build genuine relationships. Our lead for Clinton Hill, Will Simpson, and the rest of our team have been attending all of these meetings, growing our connections and deepening our understanding.

This is just the beginning of this type of connection in community for Victoria Foundation. The energy from this culminating meeting has set the stage for the next phase of our partnership.

The Thriving Neighborhoods Initiative is about investing directly in the people, organizations, and ideas that make Clinton Hill the unique force that it is. We are moving forward with a renewed sense of purpose, committed to building on the work residents have already started.

We are so excited to continue working alongside you, supporting your vision and helping to create a Newark where every person, family, and neighborhood can prosper. We truly saw that the power is in the community, and we are honored to be your partner.