The Lupton Center | FCS Training and Consulting

The Lupton Center team is taking time for intentional planning and discernment, thanks to a Collaborative Discernment Grant from the Lilly Endowment. This grant is more than just funding—it’s an opportunity to dream, strategize, and lay the foundation for the next chapter of our work. ************************************ The Lupton Center is the training and consulting arm of FCS - Focused Community Strategies. To learn more about FCS, visit fcsministries.org. #fcsministries #historicsouthatlanta #southatlanta #LuptonCenter?

Shawn Duncan and David Park tackle a fundamental question: What is a flourishing neighborhood? Defining and measuring success in poverty alleviation isn’t as simple as it seems—so where do we start? Tune in as we explore what true neighborhood flourishing looks like and how we can track meaningful progress. ?? Listen now: https://lnkd.in/ggxk48eQ ************************************ Place Matters is hosted by Shawn Duncan and brought to you by FCS - Focused Community Strategies. To learn more about FCS, visit fcsministries.org #fcsministries #historicsouthatlanta #southatlanta #LuptonCenter #podcast

The neighborhood that refused to be erased. ??? On this episode of the Place Matters podcast, journalist and author Victor Luckerson joins us to explore the powerful history of Tulsa’s Greenwood neighborhood, the heart of Black Wall Street. His book, Built from the Fire, is a must-read for anyone passionate about protecting and preserving historically Black neighborhoods. We dive into themes of community support, resilience, and the living ecosystems that shape our cities. Listen in as we discuss how communities carry the torch of change and ensure their stories are never forgotten. ?? Tune in now on Place Matters: https://lnkd.in/eNVnKSqV? ************************************ Place Matters is hosted by Shawn Duncan and brought to you by FCS - Focused Community Strategies. To learn more about FCS, visit fcsministries.org #fcsministries #historicsouthatlanta #southatlanta #LuptonCenter #podcast

FCS’s impact is real, and we love hearing from partners who have seen it firsthand! Jenna Petersen from Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity shared how the Flourishing Neighborhood Index (FNI) has transformed her community—mobilizing nonprofits, churches, businesses, and residents to take action in overlooked neighborhoods. Thanks to FCS’s guidance, Waterloo launched six brand-new Action Teams, sparking real change and fostering trust where it’s been missing for too long. With a commitment to excellence, data-driven insights, and a whole-life focus, FCS isn’t just consulting—they’re living out these principles in their own South Atlanta neighborhood and helping others do the same. ************************************ The Lupton Center is the training and consulting arm of FCS - Focused Community Strategies. To learn more about FCS, visit fcsministries.org. #fcsministries #historicsouthatlanta #southatlanta #LuptonCenter?

??? Season One Finale Recap! ??? For the final episode of Season One of Place Matters, we had the honor of hosting an incredible conversation with two influential voices in Atlanta: David Edwards, Neighborhood Policy Advisor to Mayor Andre Dickens, and Shirley Franklin, Atlanta’s 58th Mayor. Together with host Shawn Duncan, they explored key questions: ??? How can cities center neighborhoods in their plans for growth and change? ?? What does it take to make cities places where everyone has the chance to thrive? It was the perfect way to wrap up an amazing first season! Catch up on the episode now. ??: https://lnkd.in/ecFmEWsi ************************************ Place Matters is hosted by Shawn Duncan and brought to you by FCS - Focused Community Strategies. To learn more about FCS, visit fcsministries.org #fcsministries #historicsouthatlanta #southatlanta #LuptonCenter #podcast

Exciting update! ?? Our long-time partner, CITY FIELDS, is taking our collaboration to the next level in Cleveland, TN! As our first-ever Flourishing Neighborhood Index (FNI) client, City Fields has been an integral part of our journey for more than seven years. Now, we are launching their first City Shapers cohort, a milestone that integrates our latest adaptation of the FNI process into the City Shapers framework. This unique approach deepens the impact of both initiatives, equipping leaders with new tools for neighborhood transformation. This next chapter in our partnership will provide deeper insights into the community and equip local leaders to drive lasting change. We can’t wait to see the impact unfold. Stay tuned for more updates! ??Photo credit: City Fields ************************************ The Lupton Center is the training and consulting arm of FCS - Focused Community Strategies. To learn more about FCS, visit fcsministries.org. #fcsministries #historicsouthatlanta #southatlanta #LuptonCenter?

In times of change and challenge, our commitment to thriving neighborhoods remains steadfast. ???? Kyle Stokes, Community Development Coordinator for CITY FIELDS CDC, recently shared these powerful words as we launch a City Shapers cohort in Cleveland, TN’s College Hill neighborhood—a historically Black community now growing alongside an increasing Latino population. Despite shifts in federal policies and delays in critical funding, their dedication to holistic, community-led transformation continues. We stand with College Hill and communities everywhere working toward a just, flourishing future. ************************************ The Lupton Center is the training and consulting arm of FCS - Focused Community Strategies. To learn more about FCS, visit fcsministries.org. #fcsministries #historicsouthatlanta #southatlanta #LuptonCenter??

On this President’s Day, we reflect on our responsibility to build thriving, just communities. At the Lupton Center, we believe that conscience-driven work—rooted in dignity and neighborhood well-being—is essential to lasting transformation. Let’s continue to labor for neighborhoods where everyone has the opportunity to flourish. ************************************ The Lupton Center is the training and consulting arm of FCS - Focused Community Strategies. To learn more about FCS, visit fcsministries.org. #fcsministries #historicsouthatlanta #southatlanta #LuptonCenter?

This Valentine’s Day, we’re celebrating the heart of our work—our incredible partners! From neighbors and community leaders to donors and volunteers, your dedication and collaboration make lasting change possible. Together, we’re building flourishing neighborhoods rooted in love, equity, and shared vision. Thank you for being part of this journey with us! Who are you showing love to today? Tag them below! ?? ************************************ The Lupton Center is the training and consulting arm of FCS - Focused Community Strategies. To learn more about FCS, visit fcsministries.org. #fcsministries #historicsouthatlanta #southatlanta #LuptonCenter #valentinesday

How did our cities become so segregated—and what role did local policies play in shaping these inequalities? On this episode of Place Matters, Dr. Jessica Trounstine, a Professor of Political Science at Vanderbilt University, joins us to explore the political decisions that have shaped segregation in American cities. Dr. Trounstine’s award-winning book, Segregation by Design: Local Politics and Inequality in American Cities, unpacks how formal and informal policies have reinforced inequity in our communities. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the past, present, and future of neighborhood segregation. ??? ?? Listen now: https://lnkd.in/ejFMzp_2 ************************************ Place Matters is hosted by Shawn Duncan and brought to you by FCS - Focused Community Strategies. To learn more about FCS, visit fcsministries.org #fcsministries #historicsouthatlanta #southatlanta #LuptonCenter #podcast