About Us
“In the summer of 1993, DSNI’s vision was crystallized again in a “Declaration of Community Rights.” The declaration, produced by the Human Development Committee, highlights fundamental DSNI objectives in all areas of community development.”
Our Mission
The Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative's (DSNI) mission is to empower Dudley residents to organize, plan for, create and control a vibrant, diverse and high-quality neighborhood in collaboration with community partners.
What we do: We provide a vehicle for residents to exercise neighborhood control and access to resources.
How we do it: By creating, uniting, and empowering leaders to champion community causes
Who we do it for: All residents of the Dudley neighborhood of Roxbury and North Dorchester in Boston, Massachusetts
Our Values
Collective Resident Leadership and Control
Community Political Power and Voice
Mutual Shared Accountability and Responsibility
Vibrant Cultural Diversity
Fair and Equal Share of Resources and Opportunity
Development Without Displacement
Our Story
DSNI has a long history of over 35 years, here are some key dates that make up our story:
DSNI was formed by Dudley residents seeking to reclaim a neighborhood that had been ravaged by disinvestment, arson fires and dumping. When many had given up, DSNI organized neighbors to create a comprehensive plan and a shared vision for a new, vibrant urban village. To secure development without displacement, DSNI gained eminent domain authority, purchased vacant land, and protected affordability.
This process led to family stability and the creation of a community land trust. Today, the once garbage-strewn lots have been rebuilt with quality affordable houses, parks, playgrounds, gardens, community facilities, and new businesses.
Through service on DSNI’s Board, residents lead an effort that includes all neighborhood stakeholders in a democratically-elected, community process. Together, DSNI has created greater civic participation, economic opportunity, community connections, and opportunities for youth. We have built community across our diversity of language, race, ethnicity, and age. We have invested in our young people and the youth in turn have invested in the community.
Our Impact
DSNI is the lead collaborator for comprehensive community development initiatives in Dudley, organizing residents to revitalize our neighborhood, increase our economic opportunities, and leverage the creativity and diversity of our community
