Residents of the Far Eastside began to come together and talk about the problems in their community. Residents have become increasingly concerned about the significant decline in the number of stores and other services in the area. They are concerned about the lack of youth services in the community to nurture and encourage youth to become responsible, civic-minded adults. They are concerned about the disrepair of streets and sidewalks, their safety, and other city services. Most importantly, they are concerned about the lack of community identity as well as the absence of connections and community spirit among the neighborhoods.