Born From Deep Loss
Higher Ground Community Development was born when founder Arthurine Burton faced the heartbreaking loss of her loved one, 27-year-old Paul Ameer Meadows, to senseless violence. Refusing to let his story end in despair, she transformed that pain into a calling to build hope, opportunity, and safer futures for others.
Growing A Lasting Movement
Since 2015, Higher Ground Community Development has grown from a single act of courage into a community-wide movement. Through education, workforce development, financial literacy, health connections, and outreach, we help neighbors move from crisis toward stability, purpose, and long-term opportunity, one relationship at a time.
Relationships At The Center
At Higher Ground Community Development, relationships guide every decision. We listen to each story, honor every journey, and walk beside participants, not ahead of them. By partnering with schools, churches, nonprofits, and local leaders, we build trust, shared responsibility, and practical pathways to education, employment, wellness, and hope.
Arthurine Burton
Founder
In the wake of a life‑altering tragedy, a mission began to take shape—one rooted in hope, resilience, and the belief that every person deserves the chance to rise higher. What started as a response to profound loss grew into a commitment to empower youth, individuals, and families through education, guidance, and meaningful community support.
Her work reflects compassion and determination, offering programs that strengthen confidence, build essential skills, and open doors to new opportunities. Through workforce development, financial literacy, mentoring, and outreach, she continues to inspire lasting change across the communities she serves.
Our Mission And Vision
Higher Ground Community Development exists to turn pain into purpose by empowering individuals and families to rise above their circumstances. Through education, workforce and career readiness, financial literacy, health and wellness connections, and strong community partnerships, we create pathways from crisis to stability, and from hope to lasting opportunity.