Our Story
Our story begins under towering, graceful oaks in a small public housing office in Texas. Tiffany walked in with a proposal and a caring smile. She could see this neighborhood going places. Sherry, the housing director, didn’t believe it. She went on to describe her desire for residents to take pride in their community and past efforts to get residents involved in neighborhood events. Tiffany wasn’t deterred, and Sherry was willing to take a leap of faith in the hopes that this idea called “placemaking” could be the catalyst bringing the neighborhood to life.
In that small community, we planted orchards, built picnic tables, hosted cook-outs, painted murals, and started a walking club. We saw how simple things like climbing rocks, celebrations, and art can make a difference in how people feel about where they live.
The transformation that ensued planted the seeds for a larger vision, ultimately becoming Places to Grow. Seeing firsthand how people’s lives changed, Tiffany and Sherry want to make sure other neighborhoods get the same gift.
Our Misson
Places to Grow exists to give people a sense of purpose in making affordable housing neighborhoods the best they can be. We bring people together through placemaking to improve their surroundings and create neighborly places. We work alongside communities activating voices, discovering talents, and developing leaders.
Our Method
Every community is unique, so we don’t show up with a plan. We start by asking residents to share their ideas for improving their surroundings. We are passionate about taking people to new places that will inspire creativity, friendship, and hope.
