Leadership & Community Development
Empowering local leaders and grassroots communities through training, collaboration, and strategic support to drive sustainable progress.
BLACK BELT DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
John Robert Lewis
Black Belt Development Process
Development with dignity and determination — a nonprofit initiative dedicated to uplifting underrepresented communities through advocacy, education, and economic empowerment.
Who We Are
Honoring the legacy of John Robert Lewis.
Named in honor of the civil rights icon Congressman John Robert Lewis, our organization is built on his principles of justice, peace, and progress. We advance opportunities to live and thrive — revitalizing communities, promoting enduring economic growth, and improving the well-being of youth, adults, and families across Selma and surrounding areas.
From the boy from Troy to the conscience of the Congress, John Lewis's lifelong commitment to "good trouble, necessary trouble" continues to guide our work across the Black Belt.
Mission & Vision
A movement radiating from Selma.
The John Robert Lewis Black Belt Development Process advances opportunities to live and thrive — revitalizing communities, promoting enduring economic growth, and improving the well-being of youth, adults, and families across Selma and surrounding areas.
A Black Belt where every neighbor has the resources, agency, and infrastructure to thrive — economically, civically, and culturally.
R
Respect
E
Excellence
A
Accountability
C
Compassion
H
Honor
Programs
Inclusive services rooted in justice and dignity.
Three core program areas, one shared belief: every community already holds the wisdom it needs. Our role is to support, equip, and sustain.
Education & Workforce Readiness
Creating pathways for youth and adults through quality education, vocational training, and workforce development programs.
Entrepreneurship & Economic Growth
Supporting small businesses and startups with resources, mentoring, and access to capital to stimulate local economies.
Community Impact
Where the work shows up.
Five focus areas where our programs intersect with the daily lives of families across Selma and the Black Belt.
Education Equity for All Ages
Fair access to opportunities at every stage of personal and professional life.
Health & Wellness for All
Supporting consistent access to nutritious food and sustainable wellness systems.
Food Security
Reducing food waste and building systems that meet the needs of every family.
Youth Empowerment & Leadership
Confidence and resilience for young people to engage civic life with purpose.
Women's Economic Empowerment
Access to financial resources, education, and leadership roles.
Stay informed
News, radio, and on-demand updates from JRLBDP — coming to your feed.
334-259-9180
Selma & the Black Belt
Support the work
Your support sustains programs that change lives across the Black Belt. Donation functionality coming soon — partnership inquiries welcome today.
Support the mission