Welcome to The Ripple Effect Project, where one conversation can create a ripple that reaches far beyond us. Each week, we sit down with people who are making a difference in their communities, their organizations, and the lives of others. Because sometimes, all it takes is one conversation to start something bigger.

This week, the conversation features Cleophus J. Lee, Founder and CEO of NewLife Development Group, LLC, a community revitalization solutions company focused on helping communities become stronger, more vibrant, and more sustainable from the inside out.

What does it really take to build a community organization that can make an impact today and still be here years from now? Why does long-term sustainability require more than passion, and what intentional work needs to happen behind the scenes to turn a good idea into something that can last?

Cleophus brings experience in community and economic development, working with nonprofit and for-profit organizations on strategies that strengthen communities and create sustainable opportunities. His work includes building the capacity of community-based organizations, supporting small businesses, improving financial education, and finding new possibilities for vacant and blighted properties.

This conversation explores what new and emerging community organizations need to think about from the beginning, the importance of intentional planning, and how people can build the foundation necessary to turn their passion for their community into meaningful, lasting change.

Because creating change is important, but creating something that can sustain that change for generations is where the ripple truly begins.