Our Mission

Link is a network of residents and partners who connect, inspire, and equip others to practice good neighboring and create thriving and resilient neighborhoods.

Neighbors · Faith Community · Neighborhood Association · Housing · Historic Preservation ·

Neighbors · Faith Community · Neighborhood Association · Housing · Historic Preservation ·

Nonprofits · Business · City Government · Wellness Facilitators · Funders and Donors ·

Nonprofits · Business · City Government · Wellness Facilitators · Funders and Donors ·

Who We Are

Link is a grassroots organization based in Waterloo, Iowa, committed to helping neighborhoods flourish through three core practices:

  1. Connecting and engaging neighbors and partners

  2. Guiding strategy and collaboration for shared goals

  3. Facilitating learning and conversations that foster growth and understanding

What We Do

  1. Strengthen neighborhood connections

  2. Support local leadership

  3. Facilitate partnerships among residents, organizations, churches, and institutions

  4. Create opportunities for learning and engagement

Our Vision

People using their passions and gifts together to build communities where everyone belongs and thrives.

Link began in 2011 as a partnership between Harvest Vineyard Church, Orchard Hill Church, and the Walnut Neighborhood Association. Inspired by the Christian Community Development Association (CCDA) model, we’ve grown into a network of neighbors, nonprofits, businesses, and local leaders working for neighborhood transformation.

Over the years, Link has helped launch programs like Try Pie and Youth Art Team, both now thriving nonprofits serving the broader Cedar Valley community. Today, we continue to work alongside neighborhood associations, churches, and partners like Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity, JSA Development, and the City of Waterloo to foster healthy, vibrant neighborhoods.

Our Story

Partner Neighborhoods

Walnut

A historic neighborhood in East Waterloo with beautiful Victorian homes, new Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity-built houses, and strong community spirit. Link started here, building social ties and supporting neighborhood-led initiatives.

Church Row

Located across the Cedar River from downtown, Church Row is known for its historic architecture and cultural diversity. With nearly 3,900 residents, this neighborhood is working toward stability and increased homeownership. Link partners with the neighborhood association, Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity, and local leaders and organizations to support holistic flourishing.

Board of Directors

  • Donita Clark

    Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity

  • Andy Conger

    Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity

  • Sarah Helleso

    Try Pie, Orchard Hill Church

  • Molly Juza

    Orchard Hill Church, Community Learning Collaborative

  • Ali Parrish

    Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity

  • Jean Seeland

    First Presbyterian Church

  • Steve Sesterhenn

    Orchard Hill Church, Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity

  • Stephanie Shavers

    Impact Church of Hope, City of Waterloo, Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity, Community Learning Collaborative

  • Laura Hoy (Ex-Officio)

    Walnut Resident, Founder of Link CCD, Past Board Member

  • Pat Oehler

    Orchard Hill Church, Past Board President

  • SEAT OPEN (Ex-Officio)

    Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity

Connect with us

For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

Galatians 5:14