top of page

Community Transformation and Innovation: The CITI Center

In Selma, AL the Community Influencing Transformation and Innovation (CITI) Center is working with residents to redefine economic prospects and foster personal growth. The center's mission goes far beyond mere assistance; it's a commitment to nurturing dreams, creating pathways, and championing underinvested communities within Selma and Dallas County.



A Catalyst for Personal and Professional Growth

The CITI Center's core purpose is clear: to provide residents of Selma and Dallas County with comprehensive support for personal and professional development. But it's more than just support; it's about igniting transformation through the CITI Center process. This comprehensive approach not only nurtures local businesses but also serves as a platform for advocating for those who have historically been marginalized.


Unveiling the Pathway to Dreams

Central to the CITI Center's success is the transformation coaching process. This journey is not just about dreams; it's about turning aspirations into reality. The process involves one-on-one engagements where members explore their goals, partner with Transformation coaches to craft actionable plans, and become part of a community that advocates for itself and others. As racism and violence are systemic, meaning they operate on a cultural, institutional and personal levels, transformation coaches will help members navigate systemic barriers to their dreams being realized. This interdependence creates a powerful network that drives positive change in Selma and Dallas County.


Throughout this transformative journey, members are equipped with personalized assistance. This ranges from accessing essential wrap-around services like food, housing, and certifications from partner organizations to engaging in specialized training provided by the Selma Center for Nonviolence, Truth, and Reconciliation (SCNTR). Moreover, participants have the opportunity to join community dialog circles, a restorative justice concept that fosters honest and productive conversations, promoting growth and understanding. The SCNTR's training encompasses crucial skills such as conflict resolution, financial literacy, and racial equity, fostering well-rounded personal development.



A Holistic Approach to Economic Progress

The CITI Center's impact isn't confined to personal growth; it radiates outward to encompass economic development for Selma and Dallas County. Aspiring entrepreneurs find a haven within the center's walls, which house a retail shop showcasing locally made merchandise, promoting local businesses, and stimulating economic growth within the community.


Additionally, the CITI Center features a co-working space, creating an environment that nurtures innovation and collaboration. This space provides a fertile ground for aspiring professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and collectively contribute to the local economy. By supporting both established businesses and budding entrepreneurs, the CITI Center forges a path toward sustainable economic progress.



Community Influencing Transformation and Innovation in Action

The CITI Center's impact is vividly exemplified through its dedication to the residents of Selma and Dallas County. By offering a platform for personal and professional growth, the center has become a catalyst for change. Through transformation coaching, participants gain not only skills but also the confidence to advocate for themselves and their communities.


The CITI Center serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and community engagement. By providing specialized training, access to wrap-around services, and fostering dialogue, the center is weaving a tapestry of interconnected individuals working towards a common goal: a brighter future for Selma and Dallas County.


As local businesses thrive and dreams are realized, the CITI Center's impact extends far beyond its physical space. It symbolizes the potential for change, proving that through collective effort and targeted initiatives, communities can rise above challenges and forge a path toward prosperity.


In Selma and Dallas County, the CITI Center stands not just as a building, but as a hub of transformation, fostering growth, nurturing dreams, and rewriting the narrative of economic and personal progress. Through this dynamic initiative, the center is catalyzing a ripple effect of positive change that will continue to resonate for generations to come.


You can learn more about the CITI Center by contacting Lydia Chatmon at lchatmon@selmacntr.org

14 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page