In an era of rapid urbanization and complex community challenges, Justice & Sustainability Associates (JSA) stands out as a leader in fostering equitable, sustainable development through innovative dispute resolution and stakeholder engagement, ad governance development. Founded in Washington, D.C., this mission-driven firm specializes in mediating land-use conflicts, facilitating inclusive policy discussions, and strengthening community organizations to create more just and resilient neighborhoods.
JSA’s work centers on mediation, facilitation, and capacity-building, helping governments, nonprofits, businesses, and residents navigate contentious urban development issues. Whether addressing zoning disputes, environmental impacts, or equitable economic growth, JSA designs transparent, culturally competent processes that ensure all voices—regardless of race, class, or background—are heard.
JSA Worked on the National Museum of African American History & Culture Environmental Impact Study
The firm’s vision is rooted in the concept of “beloved communities”—spaces where participatory decision-making leads to environmentally secure, economically just, and socially cohesive neighborhoods. By combining conflict resolution expertise with urban planning, JSA has supported projects ranging from waterfront redevelopment to transportation equity, ensuring marginalized communities are not left behind.
Our partnership with EcoDistricts (the predecessor of Just Communities) started in 2013 when JSA’s founder, Mencer Donahue “Don” Edwards, agreed to join and help lead the EcoDistricts founding board. Over the years, Don and his team, including current CEO and Principal Donzell Robinson, participated in a number of EcoDistricts training and capacity-building events. With the launch of Just Communities, we are partnering once again to support the capacity-building for grassroots organizations in Atlanta. Through its Just Communities Pilot Cohort, JSA works with local community-based groups to refine governance structures, expand advocacy networks, and enhance leadership skills. By addressing implicit bias, improving communication strategies, and fostering allyship, JSA is helping organizations amplify their impact and support their ambitious community development work.
“We’re not just resolving conflicts—we’re helping communities build the tools they need to advocate for themselves long-term,” says Donzell Robinson.
JSA’s influence extends beyond the U.S. In South Africa, the firm played a pivotal role in the EcoDistricts SA-LED initiative, funded by USAID, which promoted equitable, low-emission urban development in Johannesburg and Cape Town between 2017-2020. By training local leaders and facilitating stakeholder collaboration, JSA and the EcoDistricts team helped integrate sustainability and social equity into city planning.
Closer to home, JSA has partnered with federal agencies like the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), providing equity training to staff and commissioners to dismantle systemic barriers in urban policy. Additionally, JSA supported the Build Back Better Regional Challenge, a $1 billion federal program, by helping 60 regional coalitions strengthen equity-focused economic development strategies.
With a proven track record in mediation, policy design, and community empowerment, JSA demonstrates how inclusive processes can transform urban landscapes. As cities grapple with climate change, housing crises, and economic disparities, JSA’s approach offers a blueprint for sustainable, just, and collaborative solutions. To learn more about JSA and our transformative community building work, contact us HERE.