Equitable Growth: Advocating for Community Development through More For Memphis

Community Development emerged in planning the More for Memphis (MFM) initiative, and conversations about neighborhood revitalization and systemic inequity surfaced. Community Development is now one of six focus areas for the initiative in addition to Arts & Culture, Economic Development, Education & Youth, Health & Well-Being, and Justice & Safety.

The Community Development focus area concentrates on what makes strong neighborhoods and thriving communities, including housing, parks, the environment, access to essential services, and the ease of getting around in multiple ways. This focus area is led by BLDG Memphis, a local nonprofit that drives neighborhood investments through building capacity in members, public policy, and civic engagement.

“This county-wide initiative is grounded in the belief that equitable growth requires not just policy changes, but also resident-driven solutions, partnerships, and grassroots efforts,” explained Jonathan Mosley, director of Advocacy at BLDG Memphis.

Strategizing Community Development

Mosley has a background spanning over a decade in cultural affairs, civic engagement, and project consulting. At BLDG Memphis, he spearheaded key initiatives such as MEMFIX, the Memphis Affordable Housing Trust Fund Campaign, and Memphis 3.0—projects that reflect his commitment to building vibrant, inclusive communities.

“My advocacy ensures policymakers and the public recognize their vital role in promoting equitable growth,” Mosley said. 

The foundation of BLDG Memphis’ policy work is advocating for policies that foster inclusive, neighborhood-based change. The organization aims to become a leader in the community development sector as a leading voice for Community Development Corporations (CDCs), a powerful capacity-building resource, a data-driven decision-making entity, and a pathway for easier streamlined neighborhood revitalization in Memphis. 

"Our members and partner CDCs are at the core of this work, creating affordable housing, fostering economic growth, and strengthening communities," noted Deveney Perry, executive director of BLDG Memphis. 

Turning Goals into Realities

MFM emphasizes creating systemic changes that benefit underserved communities. The Community Development Collaborative took that broad goal and broke it down into key strategies that include: Reinvesting in the Memphis Housing Trust Fund, which addresses the affordable housing needs of low-income households; Ensuring a right to legal representation for renters when they are facing eviction; Implementing a “complete streets" policy to make sure pedestrians are safe when walking or riding bikes; Restricting the establishment of payday lenders through zoning interventions; and Implementing a “zero waste” plan for Shelby County.

While the initiative spans multiple sectors and aims to create long-term change, Perry underscored the importance of collaboration among diverse stakeholders to execute the plan successfully. 

“Community Development provides the structures and relationships to translate these goals into actionable, resident-led change,” Perry explained. "By bringing together various players —residents, nonprofits, and policymakers—the initiative aims to address long-standing issues and build a more equitable city."

Mosley added, “Yes, all of these aspirations are deeply connected to Community Development. Art enhances social cohesion and cultural expression in neighborhoods. Access to resources like affordable housing and public services is foundational to equitable development. Opportunity reflects economic mobility, workforce development, and education, all core to community-driven progress. Wellness and justice address the social determinants of health and fair treatment, emphasizing the need for systemic reform in areas like healthcare, policing, and economic policy.”

Who Are the Collaborators?

While BLDG Memphis plays a central role in advocating for equitable community development, the execution of MFM depends on a broad network of stakeholders. Mosley highlighted several key players including nonprofits and neighborhood organizations such as AngelStreet Ministries, Oasis of Hope, and Whole Child Strategies; policy and advocacy groups such as Stand for Children TN and the Black Clergy Collaborative; and funders such as the Community Foundation of Greater Memphis and the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis.

"These organizations help drive the policy changes needed to support community development," Mosley said. 

He also explained that local government leaders, including members of the City Council and County Commission, are essential for allocating funding and shaping policies that affect development, housing, and services. Residents, however, are who Mosely said are the ultimate decision-makers and advocates for their communities.

“[They] ensure initiatives align with lived experiences,” Mosley expressed.

Potential Pitfalls

Despite the promises of the MFM plan, both Mosley and Perry acknowledged the challenges that come with Community Development. Mosley, specifically, pointed out several concerns.

“Involving residents superficially without giving them real decision-making power is status quo. And fragmented efforts between stakeholders can dilute impact,” Mosley commented.

Mosley continued, “Without sustained financial resources, projects risk stalling. And development projects must balance growth with protecting existing residents from displacement.”

He concluded with a warning against burnout — of all parties. Adequate support and benchmarks for progress were Mosely’s recommendations for preventing disengagement. 

Forward-Thinking Approaches 

Perry highlighted the importance of data-driven decision-making in shaping the future of Memphis neighborhoods. 

"While quantitative data is valuable, it’s equally important to listen to community narratives and lived experiences," Perry said. "This allows us to ensure that solutions are not only data-driven but also truly reflective of the people’s needs."

Looking forward, Mosley stressed the importance of regional collaboration. "By working with other cities, regions, and even on the state and national levels, we can expand resources and impact. This broader collaboration will help connect Memphis to wider efforts for equity and opportunity."

As MFM continues to gain momentum, BLDG Memphis is positioned to be a central advocate for developing impactful, innovative change across the city’s neighborhoods.