Document Type
Professional Plan Capstone
Original Publication Date
2025
Date of Submission
May 2025
Abstract
This thesis explores how government and private funding structures and policy criteria influence community-based organizations (CBOs) engaged in urban greening projects, focusing on Southside Richmond, Virginia through a case study of a local CBO. Using a multi-method approach including document analysis, secondary data review, and autoethnographic reflection, the research suggests a gap between visibility and influence for CBOs, showing that their decision-making authority often varies while they are publicly recognized. The study also reveals that public documentation of funders' community engagement is often performative or symbolic rather than structurally embedded in decision-making processes. In addition, funding remains a barrier, with grant requirements such as match contributions and administrative burdens. Recommendations to address structural inequities in greening partnerships include incorporating reparative justice frameworks, power mapping strategies, and greater organizational and community autonomy.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
Master of Urban and Regional Planning Capstone Projects
Included in
Nonprofit Studies Commons, Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration Commons, Social Justice Commons, Urban Studies and Planning Commons