A once-vacant lot in West Atlanta has been transformed into a vibrant community resource center dedicated to sustainability, food access, clean energy, and economic opportunity.
On Earth Day, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens joined City Council Member Byron D. Amos, community leaders, students, and residents to celebrate the grand opening of the HBCU Green Fund Resilience Hub, an innovative container-based community space designed to serve as a gathering place and resource center for local residents.
Nearly 100 people attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a significant milestone for the West Atlanta neighborhood. The project converts a previously overgrown property into a multi-use hub focused on environmental stewardship and community empowerment.
Felicia Davis, founder of the HBCU Green Fund and visionary behind the project, described the Resilience Hub as a model for community-driven sustainability.
“Opening this space on Earth Day is a reminder that sustainability starts with community,” Davis said. in a press release. “This is what community resilience looks like—locally anchored, youth-activated, and community-driven.”
Mayor Dickens praised the project as an example of grassroots investment and neighborhood transformation. He emphasized that the Hub brings together environmental sustainability, economic opportunity, health, and educational pathways for students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Council Member Amos reflected on the area’s history and the importance of investing in residents. He recalled first seeing the property when it was covered in kudzu and overgrowth and applauded the determination of community leaders who envisioned a better use for the space.
At the center of the Hub is Green is Lyf, a woman-owned juice and smoothie bar operated by community advocate Shade’ Jones. During the event, Amos presented Jones with a proclamation recognizing her contributions to Vine City and English Avenue.
The Resilience Hub also features partnerships with several organizations and institutions, including Morehouse College, Historic Westside Gardens, Strive Transit, Alliance for Cook Park, Truly Living Well Farm, and the Westside Cultural Arts Center. These collaborations support initiatives ranging from solar energy infrastructure and farmers markets to transportation and environmental education.
The Earth Day celebration also highlighted student leadership. Fellows from the HBCU Green Fund created a ceremonial ribbon from repurposed denim jeans, demonstrating the project’s commitment to sustainability. Days later, students from Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, and Georgia State University gathered at the Hub for an Earth Day celebration featuring a sustainable fashion show, local vendors, music, and live performances.
The Resilience Hub is part of the HBCU Green Fund’s broader mission to advance environmental justice, promote clean energy careers, and create equitable access to healthy communities. Through hands-on programs and partnerships, the organization is helping prepare the next generation of environmental leaders while investing in the future of West Atlanta.