City of Refuge has long been a driving force for positive change on Atlanta’s Westside, and its impact is felt well beyond the boundaries of the neighborhood it serves. As an Atlanta realtor, I see every day how stability, opportunity, and community shape the trajectory of individuals and families. City of Refuge demonstrates what happens when those elements are brought together with vision and purpose, creating an environment where people can move from crisis to independence.
What stands out about City of Refuge is its comprehensive approach to breaking cycles of poverty. Before working in real estate, housing often seemed like a matter of structures and locations. Their work highlights that “home” is something deeper—safety, support, and a foundation for growth. Seeing how they provide emergency shelter, transitional housing, and pathways to long-term stability reinforces just how central housing is to a person’s overall wellbeing.
For professionals in the housing industry, their model serves as an important reminder that thriving communities rely on more than development—they rely on people who have the resources and confidence to pursue new opportunities. City of Refuge’s programs in job training, youth development, and health services support individuals in building skills and stability, which in turn strengthens the larger community. It’s a powerful example of how a holistic support system contributes to the long-term health of a neighborhood.
City of Refuge's emphasis on empowerment rather than temporary relief has also influenced how I think about growth throughout the city. Many neighborhoods face challenges that aren’t solved by new construction alone. Their work demonstrates the role strong community-based organizations play in ensuring that revitalization benefits the residents who need it most. It underscores the importance of pairing physical development with investments in people.
Watching individuals progress through their programs—from crisis situations to stable employment and housing—illustrates the kind of transformation that creates lasting change. For those of us in real estate, these stories reinforce the idea that a strong housing market is ultimately built on strong, supported individuals and families. When people are given the tools to rebuild their lives, the entire community becomes stronger.
City of Refuge continues to be a remarkable example of what committed and mission-driven work can achieve in Atlanta. Their dedication to addressing immediate needs while creating long-term opportunities aligns closely with the values that drive responsible, sustainable growth in the city. For anyone who cares about the future of Atlanta, their impact is both inspiring and instructive.
