What We Do
We are more than just a nonprofit; we are a community-powered movement dedicated to breaking down barriers in Black communities, particularly in Louisville's West End. Founded by Taylor Ryan, a dynamic leader with a vision for equity and justice, CTCT stands as a testament to what true community looks like. We believe that when we uplift the most marginalized among us, we create a stronger, more resilient community for everyone. Our organization embodies the essence of commUNITy—a unified force that is actively working to ensure that every Black life in Louisville has the opportunity to thrive.
Using Small Change Today to Enact Big Change Tomorrow
Our work is anchored by three main pillars: Food Justice, Community Engagement, and Public Health. Together, these pillars address root causes of systemic inequities, recognizing that food insecurity, disengagement, and public health issues fuel larger societal problems. We don't just work on the ground; we also push for policy change to create a sustainable, just future for Black communities. We believe access to resources shouldn't come with strings attached. Whether it’s food, healthcare, or education, we ensure that no one has to prove their need to receive help. Our approach is rooted in the idea that true equity means removing obstacles, not just providing temporary relief. By eliminating barriers, we aim to activate individuals and build a stronger, more self-sufficient community for all.
Our Pillars
Food Justice
We address the inequities in access to healthy food, particularly in Black communities like Louisville's West End. Food is medicine, yet many face barriers to obtaining fresh, nutritious options. CTCT is committed to providing free, high-quality groceries while educating our community on healthy eating habits through classes and recipes.
Community Engagement
We believe in the traditional concept of community, fostering genuine relationships and activating the power within individuals. By building trust and support networks, we transform the lives of those we serve, many of whom return as volunteers and employees, deepening the cycle of care and engagement.
Public Health
Systemic inequalities in healthcare disproportionately affect Black communities, leading to higher rates of preventable diseases and poor outcomes. We’re committed to offering barrier-free resources and advocating for policies that tackle these disparities head-on. By staying educated on what’s happening at the top level, we push for both immediate aid and long-term solutions.
Work that Speaks For Itself
Many people are blessed through this organization and it’s amazing to see the programs available and changes taking place. I love being a Change Agent!
Alayna J.
CTCT shows up and shows out. And for this to be lead by black women makes me proud. Thank you for being there for the community!
Mar'Kesha S.
This group is tireless, constantly grinding to provide support and assistance to the people who need it most. Great work!
Mary M.
Our Approach
Our approach to service is dynamic and responsive, adapting to the evolving needs of our people through our three pillars. We actively seek community input to stay relevant and address needs as they arise. We host various programs, events, projects, and movements adjusting our offerings based on direct community feedback. By constantly being conscious of the political, economic, and social landscape, we remove barriers to basic needs.
Programs
Our programs address immediate community needs on a regular basis, such as food distribution, housing support, and educational resources. Popular current and past programs include Feed the West, our Community Baby Showers, It's Friday- Period, Tribe Time, Healthy Change, and Nurture the West. They are hands-on, direct services that change based on feedback from the community and oftentimes rely on partnerships from local businesses, corporations, and other organizations.
Events
We host regular events that bring the community together with intention, like our annual Vegan Cook-off, Bless the Block - our annual holiday giveaway, our 5k direct action walks, our annual Black Recharge, and our Black-owned farmers markets. These events are designed to strengthen bonds and celebrate our culture while providing essential resources and rallying around important causes.
Projects
Our projects are long-term initiatives focused on sustainable change. The Umoja Project, our Community Garden, Youth Advisory Councils, Tribe Time - a safe space for families, The State of Black Food Summit, our Working Groups, The Button, and more activate individuals to build infrastructure that supports ongoing community growth. We often depend on long-term partnerships with other organizations to help us secure funding, resources, and expertise for these projects. By working with trusted allies, we create lasting solutions that can evolve as the needs of our community shift, ensuring our work remains effective and relevant.
Movements
Movements are our calls to action for mobilizing our supporters around policy and societal change. Initiatives include our Building Black Political Power Survey, our Community Feedback Meetings, and the Black Census. These efforts aim to dismantle systemic barriers and reshape the future for marginalized communities. We depend on community support and individual participation to identify pressing needs and raise awareness of the challenges our people face. Through the use of petitions, hashtags, and organized gatherings, we work together to amplify voices that often go unheard. It's through these collective efforts that we can push for systemic change.
Ready to Be the Change?