In the midst of the economic meltdown, GAINING GROUND: Building Community on Dudley Street explores the innovative, grassroots organizing efforts of the Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative (DSNI) in Boston. Over the course of two years, we watch a new generation of leaders working to prevent foreclosures and bring jobs and opportunities for young people to one of the city’s most diverse and economically challenged neighborhoods. DSNI was created 25 years ago when the community had been devastated by bank redlining, arson-for-profit and illegal dumping, and has become one of the preeminent models for community-based change.

The co-producers of the original film, Mark Lipman and Leah Mahan, co-executive produced the film with director Llew Smith of Vital Pictures. The Ford Foundation, Mabel Louise Riley Foundation and Barr Foundation provided production funding for the project.

“A powerful portrait of the challenges faced by the residents of Dudley Street and of the community’s long-term commitment to demand the best and to achieve results.”
– Mayor Ted Ellis, President of the National League of Cities

“There are lessons in this inspiring film for every local activist, nonprofit practitioner, urban scholar, and city planner who is looking for new ways to create stable communities in turbulent economic times.”
– John Emmeus Davis, Editor, The Community Land Trust Reader

Visit the GAINING GROUND website.

Buy GAINING GROUND through New Day Films.