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About Us

The Larimer Consensus Group (LCG), founded in 2009, is a volunteer-led organization that represents residents in development decisions. After a decade, it continues to empower Larimer residents by promoting sustainable community and economic growth through communication networks and partnerships. The group focuses on affordable housing, economic development, and addressing environmental, social, and public safety challenges.

OUR COMMITMENT IS TO THE COMMUNITY OF LARIMER

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OUR HISTORY In previous years, Larimer faced a notable decline characterized by business closures, families moving away, and the lack of business development. As a result, the area gained a reputation for neglect, causing its residents to feel marginalized within the wider Pittsburgh community. However, in recent times, the neighborhood has experienced a remarkable transformation, largely fueled by grassroots efforts from LCG and dedicated local residents who are passionate about revitalizing their community. ​ 2009-2014. LCG, established in 2009 by State Senator Jim Ferlo, is a community organization dedicated to promoting positive change within the Larimer neighborhoods. In 2010, LCG developed the Larimer Vision Plan, which served as a framework for local development and supported an application for federal funding through the Choice Neighborhood initiative for both Larimer and East Liberty. This comprehensive plan encompassed strategies aimed at enhancing housing, creating greenspaces, promoting sustainability, and fostering business growth. In 2013, City Councilman Rev. Ricky Burgess sponsored a bill allocating $12 million in city funds, significantly increasing the community's prospects for the grant. And it was in 2014 that, Larimer successfully secured $30 million from HUD as part of the Choice Neighborhood program.   2015-2020. Since the receipt of the grant, several significant initiatives have been launched, including the transformation of the former Larimer School into housing and the establishment of the Cornerstone Village mixed-income housing complex. Both projects received partial funding from a $30 million grant allocated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The focus of these initiatives extended beyond the construction of new properties; it also emphasized the reinvestment in existing homes. Consequently, over 90 families in Larimer have received grants to renovate their residences. These developments highlight the unwavering dedication of the Larimer community, which has persistently advocated for the revitalization of our neighborhood despite facing economic challenges and limited government support.  ​ In 2016, LGC opened its office at the Environmental and Energy Community Outreach (EECO) Center. Our building is located at the corner of East Liberty Blvd and Larimer Ave, on the site of a former BP gas station, the EECO Center acts as a vital access point for our neighborhood. It serves as an essential hub for LCG to provide services, share information, and offer referrals to the community, while also facilitating neighborhood meetings.  ​ During this time LCG attained 501(c)(3) status, became one of Pittsburgh first Registered Community Organizations (RCOs) and continued to build strong partnerships. These collaborations have fostered additional opportunities for the community to secure funding, manage resources efficiently, and execute the initiatives outlined in the Vision Plan. ​ 2021-2024. Phase II of Cornerstone Village has been successfully completed. While LCG remains committed to its mission of rebuilding and providing affordable housing, it has also launched various programs designed to promote self-sufficiency among individuals of all ages. The objectives were center around the goal of creating generational wealth within the community. Having addressed the issue of affordable housing, the focus now shifted to developing a robust market and enhancing the commercial corridor to foster wealth creation throughout the community. Moreover, LCG partnered with a consulting firm to nurture resident leaders who serve as board members, equipped with the necessary skills to facilitate the growth of a vibrant community—one where individuals feel at home and can comfortably raise their families.​  To date, LCG has diligently focused on various initiatives, which encompass affordable housing developments, support programs for small businesses, and activities geared towards youth engagement. The organization has enhanced its collaborations with local developers to guarantee that new projects resonate with the community's vision. Through ongoing community involvement and thoughtful planning, we have established ourselves as an essential player in the ongoing transformation of Larimer.

Our History
Our Mission

Our Mission and Commitment to the Community 

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Our Mission

Our mission is to empower and unify the Larimer Community by being its voice and actively promoting sustainable development. We aim to cultivate collaboration among residents, stakeholders, and local organizations to create a vibrant, inclusive environment that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of our community. We are dedicated to forging connections and partnerships aimed at developing and implementing a sustainable plan for our community. Our key focus areas include: Affordable Housing Economic Development Environmental Concerns Social Issues Public Safety

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Our Purpose

We aim to offer opportunities for quality housing, encourage residents' self-sufficiency, enhance recreational and human service options, maximize employment and training opportunities, and create programs tailored to the specific needs of the Larimer community, in line with the Larimer Vision to Action Plan.

OUR CHARGE

The Larimer Consensus Group (LCG) is entrusted with the oversight of the Larimer Community and its Community Plan. In addition to fulfilling its primary mission, the LCG carries several other critical responsibilities. It is imperative that the Group exemplifies moral judgment and accountability as fundamental values. Our mandate encompasses the formulation and implementation of policies designed to enhance the quality of life for residents of Larimer while achieving community objectives. This includes identifying resources for future growth, fostering generational wealth and home equity, improving the existing housing stock, developing both affordable and market-rate housing, and reimagining a new commercial corridor.

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Inclusivity

LCG is dedicated to ensuring that the group's decisions reflect the diverse needs, experiences, and perspectives of all its members.

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Eqality

LCG remains committed to ensuring that every participant, regardless of their background, status, or identity, has the opportunity to contribute and impact outcomes.

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Contribution

The success of LCG relies on the active and meaningful engagement of every member involved.

Core Values

LCG's Core Values

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Stewardship

LCG is built upon values that emphasize collective well-being, equity, and sustainability.

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Integrity

LCG places significant emphasis on fostering trust, as it enhances accountability and sustains cohesion among its members.

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Collaboration

LCG recognizes the importance of ongoing collaboration with fellow community leaders and organizations. By working together, we can achieve common objectives and foster trust among all stakeholders.

Meet the Staff
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Meet The Staff

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Donna Jackson

CEO

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Tuarone Thomas-Washington

Executive Assistant/HR Office Manager

We appreciate your visit! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our community members for their exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment. Their guidance and support are instrumental in realizing our organization’s mission.

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Larimer Consensus Group

200 Larimer Ave

Pittsburgh PA, 15206

412-441-1476

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