December News Update

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This year has been a testament to the warmth and welcoming spirit of the Hilltop community.

Hilltop Community,

As my first year back on the west side of Columbus concludes, I am deeply moved to express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have supported and nurtured me during this incredible journey as the First Executive Director of Hilltop RISE Economic CDC. This year has been a testament to the warmth and welcoming spirit of the Hilltop community.

I’ve been overwhelmed with joy by the connections, dreams, friendships, and countless coffee meet-ups that have shaped this year. It’s a blessing to serve this community, and the love and support I’ve received in return has been a gift.

Songs on Sullivant: Spreading Joy in the Community Participating in Songs on Sullivant was an inspiring experience. Together with other organizations, we had the privilege to support over 100 families on the west side. Witnessing the unity and kindness within our community reaffirms our commitment to serving and supporting one another.

Empowering Business Series We would like to extend our thanks to Ohio Equities and our primary presenter this December, Chad Boggs, with Ohio Equities. If you missed this meet-up and would like to learn more about leasing commercially, reach out to Chad here.

Looking Forward to a Bright Future As we approach the end of the year, I’m filled with anticipation for the initiatives and endeavors that will unfold in 2024. We have two new initiatives coming in 2024 and look forward to unveiling those projects. Your unwavering support has been the cornerstone of our progress, and I’m eager to continue this journey with you all.

Linked here is a glimpse into the joy we’ve shared this year. Happy Holidays to every one of you!

Take good care,

Morgan DeBoth
Executive Director of Hilltop RISE

More To Explore

October 2026 HR Newsletter

This past month, our staff spent a few days in Athens with our peers from around the state in economic and community development at the Ohio CDA’s annual conference. The theme of this year’s conference was “Rooted in Place.”

Due to our work being hyper-focused on the Hilltop, it’s easy to forget that our community’s challenges are being faced by similar communities all over Ohio (and elsewhere). Among many other things, we learned how other communities are addressing their challenges, about creative funding solutions for redevelopment projects, and the statewide advocacy the Ohio CDA is working on. It was exciting to see examples of great work being done throughout the state, particularly in and around Athens.

Back in Columbus, our Executive Director participated in a Zone In Gallery event hosted by Council Member Melissa Green for District 6 residents. You can learn more about Zone In Phase II and how to visit the in-person Zone In Gallery here. Don’t forget to submit public comments for Phase II by October 24th.

Hilltop Rise Director October 6, 2026

September 2026 HR Newsletter

We had a busy and rainy August! Our staff and Board Chair kicked off the month by attending 2026’s third CDC Thinktank hosted by Eastland Development for Growth & Equity (EDGE) along with Columbus Redevelopment Corporation (CRC), Linden Economic Development Alliance (LEDA), and the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods. We learned about the redevelopment efforts taking place in the Eastland area and collaborated with the other partners. Later in August, EDGE celebrated its official launch event to the community which we also attended.

Hilltop Rise Director September 1, 2026