Dorchester Bay Economic Development

CONTACT:

594 Columbia Road, Suite 302
Boston, MA 02125
617-825-4200 x217
www.dbedc.com

Jeanne DuBois, Executive Director

DESCRIPTION:

DBEDC was founded in 1979 by a few neighborhood associations, to reverse the economic disinvestment, blight, unemployment, crime, and community tensions that have afflicted the North Dorchester and East Roxbury communities of Boston. Its job is to provide access to resources that will help develop affordable homeownership and rental housing; strengthen the local economy; and build community self-government through organizing and leadership development. Since it began, DBEDC has created more than 80 new homes for first-time homebuyers; renovated over 500 rental units for family housing; developed significant industrial, commercial and small-business facilities to increase local jobs; originated $1.5 million in business loans; organized 15 tenant associations; provided computer training and job placement; prepared "welfare to work" candidates for training and jobs; and reduced crime rate by 60%. For these accomplishments (among many others), DBEDC has received The Massachusetts Housing Investment Corp.'s state-wide Award for Excellence, and a Community Leadership Partner Award from Fleet's First Community Bank.

Community development philanthropy is extremely difficult, complex, and slow. DBEDC is doing it well, and deserves your enlightened support.

(2001: HUMAN SERVICES: Well-Being)