Tom Watts

Community Renewal International

Community Renewal restores hope, rebuilds caring communities and renews the spirit of cooperation in every segment of the community. We help residents come together to turn neighborhoods into safe havens of friendship and support. Community Renewal International is a non-profit organization working to restore safe and caring communities through personal relationships. Founded in 1994, after more than a decade of planning, CRI is an international model for all cities looking to bring renewal to their communities. Simply put, Community Renewal brings together caring partners to make our world a home where every single child is safe and loved. Renewal Team The Renewal Team works citywide to unite individuals, churches, businesses, civic groups and others as caring partners building a stronger city. Haven Houses Haven House volunteers unite neighbors on the block where they live. They place wooden We Care signs in their yards and bring neighbors together through various activities. Haven House leaders may host block parties, take meals to a sick neighbor, help find a lost pet, share garden produce or just offer a listening ear. Friendship Houses These are homes built in low-income areas and lived in by CRI staff who help turn impoverished neighborhoods into havens of hope. Each house contains a large community room for tutoring, computer training, character-building and much more. Other agencies partner with us in this life-changing outreach.