Mid City Redevelopment Alliance (MCRA) is proud to be sponsored by NeighborWorks, a national leader dedicated to strengthening communities nationwide. Recently, MCRA’s Executive Director, Shervisa Sullivan, had the honor of participating in the NeighborWorks Training Institute, which emphasized the power of collaboration and innovation in community development.
Held in Pittsburgh, the “45 & Forward: Readying our Field for the Future” symposium celebrated NeighborWorks’ 45 years of service. With over 1,500 attendees from across the nation, the event offered participants a week full of learning, exploration, and networking. It was also a reminder of the incredible impact that NeighborWorks has had on communities nationwide.
Marietta Rodriguez, President & CEO of NeighborWorks, captured the spirit of the event with her opening statement: “NeighborWorks is about making America stronger!” Throughout the week, attendees were inspired by symposium speakers who encouraged leaders to take charge of their narratives, utilize data effectively, and prepare for the future.
Key highlights from the event included a moving performance of “America the Beautiful” by Brandon Primus and a neighborhood tour of the areas where the trailblazing Dorothy Richardson lived and worked. Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey also joined the Northeast Region reception to honor local visionary leaders in community development, presenting NeighborWorks with a proclamation in recognition of its contributions to the field.
MCRA’s Executive Director, Shervisa Sullivan, expressed gratitude for the invaluable insights and connections gained during the symposium. “It was an incredible experience to celebrate 45 years of NeighborWorks’ achievements and participate in discussions that will shape the future of community development,” said Sullivan.
As part of the event, NeighborWorks also marked the 10th anniversary of its Sustainable Business Initiative and capped off the week with a memorable 45th-anniversary celebration on the rooftop of the convention center.
MCRA is excited to continue its partnership with NeighborWorks as we work toward building stronger, more resilient communities.
