The Beyond The Bricks: Community Leadership Academy is a six-month civic leadership program designed to equip housing and tenant leaders with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to advocate for stronger, more stable communities. This adult-focused program (ages 18 and up) deepens participants’ understanding of how local, state, and federal government systems function, including the three branches of government and how policy decisions impact affordable housing. We intentionally recruit residents with lived experience navigating housing challenges, recognizing that those closest to the issue are best positioned to lead meaningful change.

Through structured workshops, leadership development training, and individualized service-learning projects, participants build practical skills in advocacy, public speaking, organizing, and community engagement. Each participant designs and implements a capstone project that addresses barriers to affordable housing and improves neighborhood quality of life. To reduce participation barriers, attendees receive stipends to assist with transportation and related costs. Graduates complete the program with strengthened civic knowledge, tangible leadership experience, and a clear pathway to sustained community impact.