When Emmet Pierson Jr. hears the calls from Kansas Citians on the East Side for better housing, a closer grocery store and more economic opportunity east of Prospect Avenue, he understands in a way most developers can’t.
That’s because the man at the helm of the largest development organization working on the East Side was raised five minutes from his current office. As CEO of nonprofit Community Builders of Kansas City, he oversees millions in projects meant to benefit what historically have been the city’s poorest neighborhoods.
“I understand the hard work. I understand the challenges our residents have — because I was that kid,” he said.
The organization brings housing, retail and more to areas overlooked by for-profit developers, and that is paying off for both CBKC and the East Side. In CBKC’s 28 years, it has invested more than $225 million in neighborhoods mostly east of Prospect.
And since Pierson arrived in the top spot in June, the organization has positioned itself for the future, with key hires and big plans to double that investment, all while working with residents to make sure projects fit the community’s needs.