Building Communities: Faith, Housing, and Legacy

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Rev. Dr. James McCray, the visionary leader behind the Tabernacle Community Development Corporation and Jones United Methodist Church in San Francisco. Rev. Dr. McCray discusses his pioneering efforts to combat the out-migration of African Americans from San Francisco, spearheading transformative housing projects, and ensuring the preservation of African American presence in the city. From affordable housing to community services, Rev. Dr. McCray shares the remarkable journey of faith-based activism, development, and leadership that is reshaping the city’s landscape.

Key Points:

1. Historical Context: Rev. Dr. McCray shares the challenges faced by the African American community in San Francisco during the 70s and 80s, with a sharp decline in population due to redevelopment.
2. The Formation of Tabernacle CDC: How five African American pastors came together to form a collective response to these challenges, focusing on community development, affordable housing, and sustaining African American culture.
3. Housing Projects and Partnerships: Key milestones in the development of over 600 affordable housing units and ongoing efforts to establish Tabernacle Commons, a mixed-use development project near Sacramento.
4. Community Services and Youth Empowerment: Insight into the wraparound services provided by Tabernacle, from childcare to job training, and the significance of engaging the church in these initiatives.
5. Facing New Challenges: Dr. McCray highlights the current struggle with insurance costs threatening the nonprofit's ability to continue supporting new developments.
6. Faith and Leadership: Encouraging other faith leaders across the nation to take similar steps in community development, even without formal business training, emphasizing the power of partnership and vision.

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