our mission

We believe no one should have to face a lifetime of poverty simply because of the zip code they were born into.

Children who grow up in poor neighborhoods are far more likely to become adults living in poverty. These vulnerable neighborhoods lack the basic building blocks young people need to succeed later in life such as safe streets and play spaces, social support networks, high performing schools, affordable housing, and employment opportunities.

The mission of inCOMMON Community Development is to alleviate poverty at a root level by uniting and strengthening vulnerable neighborhoods. inCOMMON partners with neighbors to strengthen vulnerable neighborhoods so that every child has the chance to grow up in a safe, thriving, and opportunity-rich environment.

letter from the directors

It goes without saying that the last two years have presented challenges unlike anything we have known for generations. As in most times of social and economic crisis, our most vulnerable neighbors are the ones who suffer the most. However, in the midst of this struggle we’ve witnessed awe-inspiring stories of resilience and generosity. 

Resilience: As you will see within the data and stories below, our neighbors, in spite of challenges ranging from illness to eviction, have found ways to persevere and reach their goals. While there was a decrease in the number of neighbors participating in programs from years past, those who were able to continue through Covid reached major milestones (e.g., we celebrated the most Citizenship graduates in 2021 than any year prior)!

Generosity:  Your partnership played a critical role in these stories of success. Despite these uncertain times, 667 unique donors ensured our neighbors had access to essential resources and opportunities, ranging from job support to affordable housing. This generosity has allowed us to not only meet our current goals and objectives, but extend our work into places once beyond our capacity.

The Road Ahead:  Because of you, the year ahead will be unprecedented within the lifespan of inCOMMON. In 2022, inCOMMON is scheduled to celebrate the grand opening the Walnut Hill Commons and the groundbreaking of the Hanscom-Georgia affordable housing project. This all could not have come at a better time as we also celebrate our 21st birthday!

As you read this year’s annual report, we hope you will join us in celebrating the resilience of our neighbors, the generosity of our partners, and the bright future ahead where even more neighbors have the chance to raise their kids in neighborhoods full of life, hope, and opportunity. 

With great gratitude, Rachel & Christian