ABOUT
Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation

Mission Statement

To develop and revitalize the community by uniting and empowering residents, business leaders and government around plans and initiatives and achieve social, economic and civic improvement.

History

Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation was incorporated in October 1975. The organization was established by a group of Old Brooklyn business owners, residents, and organizational leaders to address the development needs of the community. During the summer of 2007, OBCDC which served Ward 15 and Old Brooklyn Neighborhood Services which served Ward 16 decided to officially consolidate.

Today OBCDC serves both of the neighborhoods and City of Cleveland Statistical Planning areas of Brooklyn Centre and Old Brooklyn. However, starting in January 2010, the ward boundaries and numbers have changed. The CDC is represented by four Council Wards. Most of all of Ward 13 covered by Councilman Kelley is the Old Brooklyn area. Parts of the following wards also fall in OBCDC’s service area: Ward 3, Councilman Cimperman; Ward 12, Councilman Brancatelli; and Ward 14, Councilman Cummins. However it is expected that in year 2012 the ward boundaries may change again.

OBCDC serves as an advocate for the community, dedicated to promoting, maintaining, and enhancing the quality of life. The organization also publishes the Old Brooklyn News, a community newspaper that is available at 250 locations throughout Old Brooklyn, Brooklyn Centre and Brooklyn.

Strategic Focus - Purpose and Priorities

Community Building
Ensure active and effective communication with service area residents, businesses and institutions regarding plans and actions of OBCDC and its partners.
Retention and Preservation
Work to preserve and maintain the historical characteristics of the neighborhoods of Old Brooklyn and Brooklyn Centre.
Economic Development
Function as the business resource center for Old Brooklyn and Brooklyn Centre, recruiting businesses, listing available space, and working with existing businesses to retain and improve the area's economic base.
Revitalization
Actively manage the available real estate stock in the service area to include redevelopment of critical properties, restoration, renovation, and leasing of properties.

See also: Frequently Asked Questions