Reflections on the 2026 PBC "Lift Every Voice" National Conference

As of late, I'm constantly reflecting on the work of RISE Coleman Park and how all the systems bearing down on Coleman Park are at play. Last week's Purpose Built Communities "Lift Every Voice" National Conference was a perfect example of that alignment on full tilt! Lift Jax hosted the national conference, which brought over 700 people to Jacksonville to learn, link, and lean into the belief that "Prosperity Starts with Place."

For me, this year's conference was special because RISE Coleman Park was able to bring our staff team, two board members (Aruna Gilbert and Samuel Chesser), partners (PBVP), and four resident leaders to become immersed in this Purpose Built Communities experience. What I know to be true is that RISE Coleman Park is ready; confirmation came from our resident leaders, who left energized and markedly changed to make even more of an impact. So much so, they gave us a to-do list.

Thank you, Purpose Built Communities, for always looking inward to the network to build out conference content with the experts of network members. I was thrilled to moderate the session of Building Economic Mobility in Place and serve as a panelist for Investing in Place: Philanthropy Partnership and the Power of Community, moderated by David Daniels.

HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to the Lift Jax staff team, board members, and resident leaders for demonstrating grassroots excellence and a vision of what is possible! Special kudos to Lift Jax's fearless leader Travis Williams. Your leadership is undeniable and inspires my heart.

At the core of everything RISE Coleman Park does is a deep commitment to sustaining the legacy of a community that has always been worthy of investment. Coleman Park has a rich history as a hub of Black civic life, resilience, and culture, and our work is to make sure that legacy is not only protected but expanded. Through resident-centered revitalization, we are creating the conditions for long-time residents to remain, to thrive, and to shape what comes next while opening doors for others to add their chapter to this community's story. The work is not just about buildings and programs. It is about belonging. And our resident leaders reminded us of that powerfully in Jacksonville.

Stay tuned: RISE Coleman Park will be hosting the 2026 Leadership Convening in West Palm Beach.

Photos Credit: RISE Coleman Park