Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Idleburg.
Hi Justin, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m a lifelong son of the Westside of St. Louis City. I come from a background of hard work, determination, intelligence, Strong Woman leadership and where changemakers are born. I started doing this work via my racial equity consulting firm. I noticed that high energy bills negatively impacted many mothers and elders, and I wanted to figure out how I can do something to help lessen the burden of historic utility costs on the mothers and elders. After interviewing and surveying various ages, groups of mothers, elders, and other homeowners within Cabanne District CDC footprint. I saw that its was needed to create a community development corporation that would not only be eco-friendly but also be something that pays homage to the great or legendary people that lived/live here, whether it’s from the architectural standpoint or the quality of life standpoint. I knew I had to do something different that would be innovative and revolutionary, and contrary to popular belief of what we could have in communities such as mine, and those that surround me. So understanding that and being a biblical man its my job to help protect and provide for my family and those that I love, so from that point on, I just knew that I had to do something in creating this community development corporation was the way for my neighbor’s supporters and other stakeholders to join in on our equitable energy mixed income housing initiative. Since we started in March of this year, we have forged great statewide, local, and federal stakeholders to help us with these equitable energy works we’re on the journey to accomplish.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
While this journey has been filled with its share of challenges, one significant hurdle has been fundraising, an aspect that doesn’t come naturally to me. Convincing elders and homeowners about the importance of transitioning from gas to electric appliances has also posed a notable challenge. Fundraising, however, remains a predominant obstacle, along with the ongoing effort to convey the importance and reasons behind the impactful work we are doing.
Within the framework of CABANNE DISTRICT CDC, luck is not considered the primary force shaping their journey. Instead, success is attributed to strategic planning, community engagement, and a steadfast commitment to equity. While external factors can influence any organization, both positively and negatively, CABANNE DISTRICT CDC prioritizes proactive initiatives and intentional efforts to drive positive change, emphasizing a purposeful and strategic approach led by individuals like myself dedicated to community development and sustainability.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about CABANNE DISTRICT Community Development Corporation?
CABANNE DISTRICT CDC stands as a dedicated force in transforming the housing market into a sustainable, innovative, and equitable space, with a focus on alleviating financial burdens on mothers and elders. Specializing in creating a more tolerable monthly budget for residents, the organization distinguishes itself by setting a precedent in rural and urban invested communities. Since March 2023, CABANNE DISTRICT CDC has been actively engaging and educating St. Louisians, co-creating a better quality of life and bringing positive change to the community.
Notably, the Equitable Energy Mixed-Income Community Initiative (EEMICI) is a cornerstone, concentrating on low energy mixed-income communities to promote neighborhood equity and revitalize quality of life. The organization plays a crucial role in advancing community development by providing single-family housing for moderate income, workforce housing, and graduate housing while incorporating passive design principles.
Under the leadership of Executive Director Justin Idleburg, a staunch advocate for sustainability and equity, CABANNE DISTRICT CDC collaborates with diverse stakeholders, including government leaders, grassroots advocates, and faith-based communities. Justin’s commitment to health equity and electrification practices is evident through his leadership roles in numerous organizations, reflecting a dedication to correcting historical disparities. Justin, a Charles Sumner High School graduate, has pursued education at the University of Missouri-Columbia, UMSL’s Neighborhood Leadership Fellowship, The Brown School of Social Work at Washington University, and the Urban Land Institute Real Estate Diversity Initiative.
CABANNE DISTRICT CDC distinguishes itself with a commitment to driving change, empowering communities, and building sustainable futures through a comprehensive housing, energy, and community development approach. The organization aspires to be a catalyst for improvement, reminiscent of a new version of GE, enhancing the lives of those in invested communities.
How do you think about luck?
From the perspective of CABANNE DISTRICT CDC, luck may not be the primary factor shaping their journey. Instead, their success appears rooted in strategic planning, community engagement, and a commitment to equity. While external factors, both positive and negative, can influence any organization, CABANNE DISTRICT CDC focuses on proactive initiatives and intentional efforts to drive positive change rather than relying on luck. Their approach, led by individuals like myself, emphasizes a purposeful and strategic path toward community development and sustainability.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cabannedistrictcdc.com/
