BETTER BLOCK
Using Design to Activate Spaces and Bring People Together
Better Block Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that educates, equips, and empowers communities and their leaders to reshape and reactivate built environments to promote the growth of healthy and vibrant neighborhoods.
TRANSFORMATION PROJECTS
COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENT
BRINGING
PLANS
TO LIFE
LONG-TERM
IMPACT
It all began when a group of neighbors asked,
"What if we could fix our block?"
And the Better Block was born.
The Better Block Foundation works to change the world block by block by:
Implementing traditional Better Blocks, which are 90-120 day community engagement projects that end with transformation of a space chosen by and designed with the community.
Creating custom-designed, beautiful elements that activate spaces and are easy to build by community members.
Open-sourcing ideas, such as digitally fabricated street furniture designs, so that the reach of the Better Block goes far beyond our team.
Activating spaces quickly and efficiently with our Better Block in a Box, a mobile placemaking unit that can be shipped straight to your neighborhood.
Spreading the word of the importance of placemaking through Jason Roberts’ speaking engagements, study tours around the world, and engaging workshops.
BETTER BLOCK IN A BOX
DREAM IT
DESIGN IT
BUY IT
Open Source
Our open-source model provides the opportunity for people to form their own placemaking coalitions and take back their public spaces.
Block Transformations
Through 90-120 days of surveys, collaboration, and design, we guide communities in revitalizing entire blocks that were previously underutilized or ignored.
Awareness
We work to put the power of placemaking back into neighbors' hands by communicating and demonstrating what is possible to people all around the world.
A bulletin illustrating what goes on here at the Better Block Foundation.
WORKING TO CREATE PLACES YOU WANT TO BE IN
Because everyone deserves to feel proud of their neighborhood. And safe. And empowered to make change happen.
We perform a wide range of activities to further our mission each year. We organize full-scale Better Block projects, put together smaller installations for various causes, host study tours, teach all ages about placemaking, and expand our Wikiblock Library continually. Our work is joyful and impactful. Contact us about project inquiries here.
Learn About Jason Roberts' Keynotes
Click here to learn more about Jason Roberts' keynotes. To inquire about availability, contact one of Jason's associates at speaking@cowanroberts.com.