Our Services & Programs
We are former practitioners and policymakers driven by the promise of safe, healthy, resilient neighborhoods that provide opportunity and high quality of life for all.
As the only national nonprofit dedicated to fixing the systems that lead to vacant, abandoned, and deteriorated properties, Community Progress drives change by working primarily with government entities—in collaboration with local stakeholders from nonprofits, the private sector, and residents—to address widespread vacancy.
Through our programs and services, we help communities take a comprehensive approach to vacant properties that recognizes each neighborhood’s unique circumstances, works to reduce disparities between residents, and eliminates barriers to opportunity.
Training and Education for Practitioners and Community Leaders
Our Education, Leadership, and Engagement Team equips city staff, land bank leaders, community advocates, and other local decision-makers with the knoweldge and skills to address vacancy and strengthen neighborhoods. Through webinars, trainings, conferences, and leadership development opportunities, we offer proven tools and strategies that expand local capacity and build long-term community power.
Customized Expert Guidance for Local Governments and Land Banks
Our Technical Assistance team works directly with local government practitioners—like mayors, city managers, planning directors, code enforcement directors, and more—to design solutions to reduce and reuse vacant properties. We have provided technical assistance to more than 300 communities across the United States to help enact laws, implement strategies and practices, and build momentum to sustain policy changes that reclaim vacant properties.
Policy Development & Research
We provide research and policy expertise that helps leaders create stronger housing and land use systems. At the federal and state levels, we support coalitions that advocate for reforms benefiting both homeowners and renters, local governments, and that advance communities' goals for economic growth. We give practitioners the evidence they need to design policies that reduce vacancy and promote equitable development.
National Land Bank Network: Peer Support for Land Bank Leaders
We lead the only national network for land banks, offering members tools, resources, and peer-learning opportunities. By connecting leaders across the country, NLBN strengthens land banks’ ability to return vacant, abandoned, and deteriorated properties to productive use in ways that reflect community priorities.