Why We Do It
CDI was founded on the belief that strong communities create opportunities for children and families to succeed. From the beginning, our purpose has been to strengthen local capacity, combat poverty, and nurture human potential through well-designed systems and effective leadership. That belief continues to guide our work today.
We understand that systems serving vulnerable populations are often under strain, facing leadership transitions, fiscal challenges, infrastructure issues, and evolving policy expectations. CDI exists to help communities and institutions navigate these complexities while protecting services that families rely on.
CDI's Mission is to inspire people and communities to generate their own transformation.
The Values That Guide Our Work
Throughout our history, CDI has operated from a set of shared values that influence not only what we do, but how we do it:
Strengths-Based Leadership
We see and build on the strengths within people and organizations, nurturing potential and calling forth talents within people. rather than focusing on deficits.
Growth and Learning
We prioritize continuous learning for individuals and for the organization, adapting as systems and communities evolve.
Meaningful, Accountable Work
CDI designs good jobs, expects people to do good work, and supports staff in taking shared responsibility for outcomes.
Reflection and Responsibility
We value self-reflective practice and personal accountability, integrity, and excellence as essential components of effective leadership and strong partnerships.
Problem Solving with Integrity
CDI empowers staff and partners to address challenges thoughtfully, transparently, and collaboratively.
