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REVITALIZING A COMMUNITY
AND REIGNITING HOPE

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Our Journey of Change Through a United Community

Our History

A LEGACY OF PARTNERSHIP AND PROGRESS

Once characterized by run-down homes, high crime, and struggling schools, the Boulevard Homes neighborhood in Charlotte, NC was known for hardship. But a group of visionary leaders saw more than what was — they saw that the people there were worth fighting for. With courage, collaboration, and a belief in opportunity for all, they reimagined the community as a place where families could build brighter futures.

Their vision became the Renaissance West Community Initiative (RWCI), founded on the Purpose Built Communities model to unite housing, education, wellness, and economic vitality. Today, that vision thrives across a vibrant neighborhood of over 1,300 residents, where children learn in high-performing schools, parents pursue new career paths, and generations grow stronger together.

TIMELINE

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Boulevard Homes and Little Rock Apartments are built.

1969 - 1970
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Beloved community police officers Burnette and Nobles are tragically killed in the line of duty, serving as a catalyst for change. 

1993
Cornerstone Children’s Initiative (CCI) & Charlotte Housing Authority (CHA) devise a revitalization plan..jpg

Cornerstone Children’s Initiative (CCI) & Charlotte Housing Authority (CHA) devise a revitalization plan.

2006 - 2008
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CHA receives $21.9MM HOPE VI grant to revitalize Boulevard Homes into a mixed- income community with an education village​.

2009 - 2011
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CCI changes its name to Renaissance West Community Initiative (RWCI). The Retreat at Renaissance (active senior apartments) and Residences at Renaissance (Phase 2) are completed.​

2013
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Residences at Renaissance (Phase 3), which doubles the community’s housing inventory, is completed.​

2016
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Renaissance West STEAM Academy (RWSA) and the Howard Levine Child Development Center (HLCDC) are built and opened.

2016 - 2018
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RWSA exceeds academic growth goals for the first time in its history​.

2022
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RWCI celebrates 10 years of service, culminating in a $400k fundraising gala​. RWSA moves off the state’s “F” list. RWSA’s Dwight Thompson is named CMS & NC Southwest Region Principal of the Year.

2023
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RWCI undergoes staffing changes, and Tiffany Capers joins RWCI as CEO following the retirement of former CEO William ‘Mack’ McDonald, ushering in a new era.

2025
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By the Numbers

MEASURING COMMUNITY IMPACT

Being a Purpose Built Community means we’re part of a nationwide movement to open doors to opportunity and strengthen neighborhoods from within. Together with our partners, we bring expertise, resources, and advocacy to help residents achieve their vision for a healthy, thriving community. 

Our dashboards provide insights into the local community and its residents. This understanding enables us to improve how we serve them and develop strategic plans for the future.

YOU'VE SEEN THE PROGRESS. HELP US KEEP GOING.

We need your support to continue our pathway of growth.