Black Community Developers, Inc

Founders

In 1967, the idea for Black Community Developers, Inc. (BCD) was started as part of the United Methodist Church (UMC) Christian Outreach Ministries of the Board of Global Ministries. BCD grew beyond an idea through early contributors who came from Theresa Hoover UMC in Little Rock, Arkansas. Their thorough research identified community problem areas such as unemployment, depression, illiteracy, poverty and despair. Responding to the community needs, BCD established socially responsible programs including youth oriented and childcare programs, and became the basis for the Little Rock organization that took form in 1981. Over the years, through a willingness to deal with the root causes of socio-economic problems and committing to address the most urgent needs within the community, BCD has become a catalyst for at risks,low-income and underserved children, youth and families to work constructively and to utilize the human, economic and educational resources in Rebuilding Lives and Restoring Communities.

Mission

Black Community Developers, Inc. (BCD) is a non-profit community based organization dedicated to brightening the future of children and youth, and improving the quality of life for underserved, disadvantaged and at risk families in metropolitan Little Rock and the throughout the state of Arkansas. BCD is a strong advocate for children, youth and families, supporting polices and programs that focus attention on their needs and foster positive solutions.

Staff

Under the leadership and guidance of Reverend William H. Robinson, Executive Director, Deborah Bell, Director of Community Development, Sandra Mitchell, Program Director and Darryl Swinton, Housing Director, BCD has grown to be one of the city's largest and most comprehensive nonprofit human services provider, offering innovative and nontraditional programs that address gender and culturally sensitive needs to a diverse population.

Board of Directors and Advisory Board

A Board of Directors governs BCD. The Board of Directors provides leadership, guidance and direction in the implementation, planning, assessment and evaluation of BCD services and programs. The Board of Directors and Advisory Board Members consist of community leaders from across the nation.