From the earliest days of The Rapides Foundation, there has been a formal acknowledgement that nonprofits, communities and individuals needed support in developing their capacity to respond to the opportunities around them. This took the form of one-day workshops and technical assistance engagements.

The Foundation conducted some extensive community-based needs assessments throughout the region and began to offer various longer-term trainings and programs. Many graduates of those programs have gone on to do important and powerful work in their communities.

Under its current structure, Community Development Works - or CDW - is an operating program of The Rapides Foundation. Housed on the 1st floor of The Rapides Foundation Building, we offer various formal and informal programs for nonprofits and their staffs, Boards and other volunteers while still strongly supporting individuals, schools and units of government in their desire to advance their work. Through the Learning Lab, we have access to comprehensive resources for all types of civic involvement and staff to assist you.

Keep an eye on the Web site or ask to be added to our mailing list. We continue to add programs and services that might be exactly what you need!