"Exploring the Role of Government Funding and Policy Criteria in Greeni" by Destiny R. Brown
 

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

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