Our Story

We began with a bold idea: that place-based, family-centered work could transform outcomes for families living along the Freedom Drive Corridor. 

At the heart of our mission were moms — strong, resilient women determined to create better futures for their children. But real transformation requires more than a single focus. Today, we are expanding our impact to walk alongside fathers, invest in youth development, support our seniors, and uplift the entire community.

We didn’t do this work alone — and we never intended to. Freedom Communities is a living example of what’s possible when neighbors, leaders, and partners come together with shared purpose.

When we first started, our founding board brought in experts and collaborators who understood Charlotte’s systemic challenges — and the proven strategies that could shift the trajectory of entire communities. Pastor David Docusen, one of our early visionaries, traveled across the country studying community development models that made a sustained impact on generational poverty.

His research helped shape our core strategy: go deep in one geography, and focus on the interconnected areas that drive upward mobility — housing, education, employment, and health and wellness.

We chose the Freedom Drive Corridor not just because of the need, but because of the relationships and potential rooted here. We listened to school principals, walked alongside families, and followed the lead of the community to shape our approach.

Years later, the work continues — more inclusive, more collaborative, and more committed than ever to see more people and families thrive.