Fairfax County Department of Housing and Community Development Honors National Community Development Week

The Mount Vernon Athletic Club was arguably one of the premier athletic clubs in southern Fairfax County up until its closing in 2020. At that time, the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA) purchased the property and, working with the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, embarked on a plan to transform the site into a modern, community-serving space.

Fast forward to 2023, and the new Hybla Valley Community Center opens its doors. The Center merges recreation, education, community, and workforce development into a single space. More than 4,000 locals of the Hybla Valley neighborhood enjoy playing and learning at the Center, which hosts community events, sports leagues, and activities.

CDBG Funding Essential

The Hybla Valley Community Center was made possible with almost $2 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program (CDBG). CDBG funds are awarded to local programs aimed at building stronger and more resilient communities. The Hybla Valley Community Center has been successful in doing so. 

In addition to recreation and community activities, the Center is home to W.I.S.H., the Workforce Innovation and Skills Hub. At W.I.S.H., community members can increase their skills, obtain certifications for in-demand employment, connect directly to employers ready to hire, and become empowered to earn a living wage.

April 6-10 is National Community Development Week

National Community Development Week recognizes the role CDBG funding plays in making a community thrive such as infrastructure, economic development, housing rehabilitation, and public services. The FCRHA has strategically utilized CDBG funding   to enhance Fairfax County with affordable housing development, fair housing, and human service activities that benefit low-to-moderate income individuals and their families.