Lynn Brockwell-Carey, Executive Director of Brevard Neighborhood Development Coalition, talks about hope for a tough neighborhood.

Florida Today recently interviewed Lynn Brockwell-Carey about the organization she leads and the impact that Brevard Neighborhood Development Coalition (BNDC) has had on its community. Brockwell-Carey recently received the Reverend Harvey L. Riley Bridge Builder Award for community activism and improvement. BNDC has been instrumental in turning the tide of one of Melbourne's poorest communities, and an area once plagues by drugs and crime.

BNDC has worked with Florida Community Loan Fund since 2008 on 2 projects: Greater Heights and The DOCK (click to read more).

Below is an excerpt from the Florida Today article. You can read the entire article here.

Q: What have been the organization's greatest accomplishments?

A: Revitalization of the Greater Heights block. Ths includes construction of The DOCK in 2007 and Greater Heights apartments in 2009. Forty children and teens stream through the DOCK doors every day, where they receive safe haven, academic help and many life enrichment opportunities. BNDC's Greater Heights Apartments across the street replaced dilapidated housing with pleasant, affordable housing for 18 working poor and elderly families.

BNDC seeded in good neighbors on this block and the crime rate has plummeted. On the very land where drug dealers and prostitutes used to hang out, children now ride their bikes and play tag. One ofmy greatest joys is to watch the children playing on that street.

Photo: Lynn Brockwell-Carey with FCLF's Chief Lending Officer Nelson Black, on site at the Greater Heights location.