Looking Back, Moving Forward: A Year of Strength
If 2025 taught us anything, it’s that strength is about more than endurance. Strength includes clarity, creativity, and staying rooted in purpose.
Carrying Forward Tom Cousins’ Vision for Neighborhoods
Purpose Built Communities® CEO Carol R. Naughton reflects on the profound influence Tom Cousins had on her, on East Lake, and on the national model that grew from his vision. In this message, she shares why his optimism, humility, and belief in the power of place continue to shape our work today.
What Fuels the Work: Reflections from Community Quarterback Organizations
As the year winds down, we asked leaders from four of our Network Member Organizations what keeps them grounded, energized, and committed to the work of long-term neighborhood transformation.
Housing as a Foundation for Learning and Stability
At Purpose Built Communities®, we believe Prosperity Starts With Place™. And this November, as the nation recognizes Homelessness Awareness Month, we’re focusing on a critical piece of that place: housing.
Empowered Leaders, Thriving Communities: Purpose Built Communities’ 2025 Leadership Convening Recap
The Purpose Built Communities Network serves as a national center of excellence, composed of locally led organizations that partner with residents to undertake the complex, long-term work of holistic neighborhood transformation. At the forefront of…
Collaboration in Action: Inside Purpose Built’s Peer Exchange Program
In late July, eight Purpose Built Communities Network Members gathered in Spartanburg, South Carolina, to experience a different kind of leadership in action. This Peer Exchange Program (PEP) trip was part of Purpose Built’s ongoing…
Early Learning at the Heart of Neighborhood Transformation
Home, School, and the Heart of a Thriving Neighborhood As summer fades and school doors swing open, we’re reminded that learning doesn’t begin with the sound of a bell. A child’s journey to academic success…
Carol R. Naughton Named to Forbes’ 2025 50 Over 50 List
Purpose Built Communities® is proud to share that our Chief Executive Officer, Carol R. Naughton, has been named to the 2025 Forbes 50 Over 50 list in the “Impact” category—a prestigious recognition that celebrates women…
Purpose Built Communities Mourns the Passing of Founder Tom Cousins
July 30, 2025 | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Atlanta, GA — Purpose Built Communities® is deeply saddened by the passing of our visionary founder, steadfast supporter, and dear friend, Tom Cousins. We mourn his loss alongside…
Healthy Neighborhoods Start with Thoughtful Spaces
When we talk about wellness, we often jump straight to access: access to healthcare, fresh food, childcare, and education. And while all of these are essential, there is something more foundational we must consider: the…
Wellness is a Community Affair
When the temperatures rise, so does the opportunity to come together. Summer isn’t just a season. It’s a call to connect, to celebrate, and to care for one another. Across the Purpose Built Communities® Network,…
The Network Power of a Community of Practice
Five Years of Connecting, Sharing and Elevating Five years ago, Purpose Built Communities® decided to shift its approach. Rather than serving as the sole source of technical assistance and guidance for its Network Members, it…
