Introducing the Kennedy Heights Legacy Fund
For many years, the Kennedy Heights Development Corporation (KHDC) has helped guide our neighborhood through change by preserving key spaces and supporting thoughtful, inclusive growth. The Kennedy Heights Arts Center stands as just one example of that lasting impact.
Today, Kennedy Heights is entering another important chapter. As new redevelopment opportunities emerge and long-time leaders step back, we have a chance to both honor the past and invest in the future.
Kennedy Heights has been shaped by residents and advocates who gave their time, energy, and vision to building a neighborhood where everyone can thrive — people who championed fair housing, economic development, and community stability, and whose impact lives on in the spaces we gather, the parks we enjoy, and the strength of our community today.
In honor of those individuals, we are proud to announce the establishment of the Kennedy Heights Legacy Fund.
What is the Kennedy Heights Legacy Fund? The Kennedy Heights Legacy Fund advances the work of KHDC, which is rooted in the belief that every resident deserves a neighborhood where they can thrive. Established to honor the community advocates and residents who shaped Kennedy Heights, the fund carries forward their commitment to inclusive growth, fair housing, and lasting neighborhood investment. Managed by the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, it provides KHDC with flexible capital to bridge funding gaps, activate reimbursement-based grants, and seize redevelopment opportunities as they arise — ensuring that critical projects move forward without delay.
Why This Fund Matters. Many grants available to KHDC require upfront funding and are only reimbursed later. Without access to that initial capital, opportunities that bring investment, housing, and resources into our neighborhood can be missed. This fund ensures we don't miss those opportunities. Simply put, this fund helps turn plans into action.
Funds may be used for, but are not limited to:
Bridging timing gaps between grant awards and reimbursement
Allowing KHDC to fully leverage reimbursement-based grants
Responding to new redevelopment opportunities in the neighborhood
Preserving key staff positions that keep projects moving forward
Covering short-term needs such as property costs and maintenance
Supporting pre-development expenses that are critical to launching projects
Our Goal: We're aiming to raise $50,000 to create a reusable pool of funds that allows KHDC to move projects forward, bridge funding gaps, and fully leverage public and private grants. As funds are reimbursed, they return to the pool and can be used again, sustaining future progress. Contributions beyond that goal will support essential operating and pre-development costs that keep momentum going. With the help of an initial $5,000 seed gift and a $2,000 donation made in honor of Joe Feldhaus, we're already 14% of the way to our goal.
How You Can Help. We invite you to consider giving in honor of someone who has shaped Kennedy Heights for you — a neighbor, advocate, friend, or mentor whose commitment to this community left a lasting mark. Every contribution, at any level, helps carry their legacy forward and builds a Kennedy Heights that future generations can call home.
If you would like to donate, click the button below to visit the Greater Cincinnati Foundation's online donation page for the Kennedy Heights Legacy Fund. Interested in donating another way? Click here to learn more about additional donation options available through the Greater Cincinnati Foundation.
