About Us
Learn more about the mission and work of the Charles Street Area Corporation over the decades.
About Us
The Charles Street Area Corporation is a hub for talent, passion, and energy in our community. We meet with leaders from around the city to bring in resources, collaboratively plan the development of our neighborhood, collect feedback from residents and stakeholders, and participate in events and volunteer opportunities year-round.
Learn more about what we do and our board of directors.
Our Approach
The Charles Street Area Corporation and our resident-led council are anchored in our shared Mission, Vision, and Purpose.
Approach
Board of Directors
Working diligently to further the goals of CSAC, the Board of Directors is committed to equitable growth in the CSV.
BoardHistoric Timeline & Milestones
A look back at the Charles Street Area Corporation’s decades of resident-led development, organizing, and impact.
1960s & 1970s
Resident-led since the beginning.
CSAC is organized in the 1960s by residents focused on safety and housing affordability.
1973
CSAC officially incorporates as a 501c3 nonprofit organization focused on improving living conditions.
1980s & 1990s
Increasing home ownership.
CSAC develops a plan to build new homes for ownership in the community. CSAC led the construction of 31 single-family homes with the Northside Leadership Conference.
2013
CSAC establishes gateway entrance to Charles Street Valley with a rock garden at Bright-Chuck Point (intersection at Brighton Rd and North Charles St).
2000s & 2010s
Growth and development.
Connections with neighboring civic groups and organizations strengthen.
2018
Charles Street Area Council becomes an affiliate of Charles Street Area Corporation, a 501c3 community and economic development entity.
2020 – Present
Tending to our roots.
Continuing affordable homeownership efforts with new infill housing projects. The North Charles Street Infill Housing Project will feature 21 affordable single-family homes and continue the vision to restore middle-class wealth and attract new neighbors in Charles Street Valley. Construction to begin in 2026.
2023
CSAC transforms .4 acres of abandoned greenway into active usable community space, at Harlan Ave Trail in Perry South Greenway.
About Our Community
- Resident-led organizing since the 1960s inspired by Dorothy Mae Richardson.
- Collaboration with local government to improve housing and community welfare.
- Focus on eliminating blight, redevelopment, and securing affordable housing.
- Charles Street Valley spans approximately 42 acres with 216 households.
- 70% of housing is subsidized rental; homeownership is key for stability.
- Vacant land and greenspaces are valuable community assets.