The class selected South of Downtown Community Development Organization (SDCDO) as the recipient of a $5,000 grant. SDCDO works to enrich the quality of life for residents of the Near South and Everett neighborhoods through collaboration, economic opportunities, and community development. By increasing the participation of various community members, SDCDO seeks to improve safety, housing and neighborhood infrastructure, thereby strengthening the area as a whole.
Specific projects seek to develop neighborhood services, healthy and affordable housing, arts and culture, equitable opportunities in education, and job skills/workforce development.
Hosted by SDCDO since 2015 is the South of Downtown Makers Market, which showcases small businesses in the neighborhood to the rest of Lincoln. The pandemic required SDCDO to adapt their plans for the in-person event, and local creatives were invited to sell their goods safely through an online platform. Over 20 entrepreneurs participated, enabling them to continue their efforts through this neighborhood infrastructure.
Learn more about SDCDO at: https://lincolnsouthdowntown.org/
Learn more about South of Downtown Makers Market at: https://www.sdmakersmarket.org/