community Action Development Bethlehem
about us
Community Action Development Bethlehem was incorporated into Community Action Lehigh Valley on October 6, 1997, and opened offices to the public on March 19, 1998. Since then, we have advanced a neighborhood-based vision of community and economic development that builds on the strengths and assets of our diverse community in South Bethlehem and the Northside 2027 neighborhoods.
We are located at 409 East 4th Street, Bethlehem, PA 18015
Phone: (610) 807-9337
Hablamos español.
our mission
Based on a belief of economic and social justice, CADCB improves the quality of life in south Bethlehem by fostering economic opportunity, promoting community development, and empowering residents to actively participate in the decision-making process regarding the future of our diverse community.
2025 - 2026 Project Proposals
Community members, organizations, and small business owners are invited to apply for funding to carry out projects that improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods on the Southside and that address at least one of the following priority areas: Housing Affordability and Quality, Communication and Connectivity, or Public and Green Spaces. All projects must be completed between July 1, 2025 and September 30, 2026. Project proposals are due Friday, March 21 to Anna Smith and Sophie Sarnitsky (asmith@caclv.org and ssarnitsky@caclv.org). Projects can include improvements to neighborhoods, programs, events, and more. For more information, please view the below documents.
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To learn more about the proposal process, to discuss project ideas, or to find collaborative partners, we encourage you to attend a committee meeting related to your project area. All are welcome! Please reach out if you would like a Zoom link for any of these meetings.
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We believe that affordable, quality housing is the foundation of a healthy, thriving community. We work to improve the quality of Bethlehem’s housing stock, advocate for affordable rental and homeownership opportunities, and empower residents to participate in decision-making processes regarding the future of their community.
Communication and
connectivity
We believe that a more equitable future for the Southside depends on all community members having a voice in the decisions that affect their lives and their neighborhoods. We work alongside our neighbors, small businesses, and community stakeholders to develop relationships, foster community pride, and advocate for a neighborhood-driven vision for our Southside’s future.
Public and green spaces
We believe that thriving neighborhoods include public infrastructure and accessible green spaces that bring residents and visitors together, as well as clean, safe, and attractive commercial districts. Our community development projects build on the assets and history of our community and are led by residents, business owners, and other stakeholders with deep roots in our communities.
our history
Since 1998, Community Action Development Bethlehem has advanced a neighborhood-based vision of community and economic development that builds on the strengths and assets of our diverse community in Bethlehem. Community Action Development Bethlehem seeks to improve the quality of life in Bethlehem by empowering residents and expanding economic opportunity through the implementation of Southside’s Tomorrow, a coalition-based community development initiative focusing on promoting Housing Affordability and Quality, improving Communication and Connectivity, and supporting Public and Green Spaces in south Bethlehem.
our 2023-2024 impact
128+
Residents connected
with community
resources.
engaged 111 residents
of South Bethlehem in neighborhood meetings.
Engaged 800 residents
at 4 community building events.
98 residents
were engaged via gardening and outdoor wellness activities.
completed 6
residential facade improvements.