Peoplestown is a historically African American neighborhood just southeast of Downtown Atlanta, home to more than 3,200 residents. It was initially developed as a streetcar suburb in the late 19th century, with urban renewal and development threatening to undermine stability of the neighborhood into the 20th century. These issues engendered the neighborhood’s strong capacity for community activism and organizing, as various organizations and residents sought to oppose rapid growth and development that endangered residents’ quality of life.
Incorporated in 1991 by current President Columbus Ward and residents interested in increasing neighborhood voice in local planning and development, the Peoplestown Revitalization Corporation (PRC) is a community-based nonprofit organization and certified neighborhood community development corporation. Its mission is to improve the quality of life for residents of Peoplestown community by promoting affordable housing development, community development and youth support services. Since its inception, the PRC has worked closely with community members to sponsor holistic, sustainable economic development programs to maintain a prosperous, forward-thinking community.