The Just Communities Blog

Guide to Developing Resiliency Hubs

This Guide developed by the Urban Sustainability Directors Network is intended to help communities develop new Resilience Hub projects. Most Resilience Hub projects are likely to start by leveraging existing community assets. Some may start with a well- trusted and well-utilized site already identified, while others may start with a strong coalition of community partners. Not all Resilience Hubs will develop in the same order or on the same timeline. Whether starting from designing a community center retrofit, a resilient power solar plus storage installation, or a new emergency shelter, this guide can help identify opportunities to expand beyond a singular goal and meet a wide range of community needs with one project.

Industrial EcoDistricts Primer

This paper presents the Center for Neighborhood Technology's research on a range of innovations for Industrial EcoDistricts in the areas of energy, water, transportation, and waste.

Multisolving Institute Flower Tool

Facilitating Long-term, Whole-system, Equity-based Reflection (FLOWER) is Multisolving Institute’s interactive online community engagement tool to help stakeholders foster the conversations and imagination required to improve strategies, achieve multiple goals, and explore shared needs while prioritizing equity.

The Multisolving Institute is a global movement addressing complex societal issues through integrated solutions. By focusing on climate change, equity, health, and biodiversity, the institute promotes collaborative ways to solve multiple problems with single investments2. They offer resources, tools, and training to help individuals and organizations implement multisolving strategies.

The Sustainable Square Mile

The "Sustainable Square Mile Handbook" by Blacks in Green (BIG) and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is a guide to creating sustainable, environmentally friendly urban communities. It presents eight principles of green-village building, focusing on community-based practices, economic sustainability, and environmental stewardship.

What is a Racial Equity Impact Assessment, Chicago United for Equity

The Chicago Department of Housing's "Racial Equity Impact Assessment on the Qualified Allocation Plan (QAP)" evaluates how Low-Income Housing Tax Credits are distributed and their impact on racial and ethnic communities. The report aims to ensure equitable access to affordable housing for communities of color and working-class families.

Racial Equity Impact Assessment Toolkit, Race Forward

The "Racial Justice Impact Assessment" is a comprehensive guide developed by Race Forward to help organizations and policymakers evaluate the potential racial equity impacts of their proposals, initiatives, and policies. It provides practical tools and frameworks to ensure that racial justice is a key consideration in decision-making processes.

National Neighborhood Indicators Partnership

The National Neighborhood Indicators Partnership (NNIP) is a collaborative network of local organizations coordinated by the Urban Institute. NNIP assists communities in using data to shape strategies and investments, aiming to ensure that all neighborhoods become places where people can thrive. The partnership focuses on connecting communities with the data and skills necessary to advance equity and well-being.

Neighborhoods at Risk

The "Neighborhoods at Risk" tool from the U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit offers an interactive way to explore socioeconomic and climate data. This resource helps communities identify neighborhoods vulnerable to extreme weather and climate change, supporting efforts to prioritize capital improvements, inform policies, and update Hazard Mitigation Plans.

FEMA National Risk Index

The National Risk Index (NRI), developed by FEMA, is an online tool that illustrates the risk of natural hazards across various U.S. communities. This resource provides an interactive map and data on 18 natural hazards, along with factors such as social vulnerability and community resilience. It helps communities understand their relative risk and supports efforts in mitigation planning and risk communication.