Hi-Crest is a neighborhood filled with resilience, strength, and a deep sense of community. Over the past two decades, neighbors have stepped up, invested in their future, and transformed what was once considered one of Topeka’s most challenged areas into a place of pride and progress.
The numbers tell a powerful story: crime is down 66% from its 2005 peak. In the last few years alone, since the launch of Fellowship Hi-Crest and SENT, crime has dropped another 29%. But this isn’t just about numbers—it’s about the people who live here, the families who call Hi-Crest home, and the shared commitment to making this neighborhood thrive.
Now, we’re ready for our next big goal: Drive to 100.
We want to see reported crimes drop to just 100 per year—less than 10 per month. This is an ambitious goal, but Hi-Crest has already proven that change is possible when a community takes ownership of its future.
How Did We Get Here?
Hi-Crest’s transformation hasn’t happened by chance—it’s been powered by neighbors investing in their own neighborhood. While we deeply appreciate the role of law enforcement, we know that lasting safety comes from strong relationships, economic opportunity, access to quality housing, education, and mental health support.
This approach has already made a difference, and we believe it’s what will take us all the way to 100.
Our Strategy for the Future
- To cut crime in half again, we’re focusing on two key areas:
- Providing stronger community support for domestic disputes
- Addressing theft through economic empowerment and opportunity
Through partnerships with the Hi-Crest Neighborhood Improvement Association (NIA) and other local organizations, we’re building out community-driven solutions that go beyond policing and get to the heart of the issue.
1. Strengthening Support for Families
- Expanding mental health services and crisis intervention for families experiencing conflict
- Creating safe spaces and mediation programs to help resolve disputes before they escalate
- Providing mentorship and life skills programs that equip young people with tools for success
2. Reducing Theft Through Economic Empowerment
- Increasing job training and employment opportunities
- Expanding financial literacy resources to help families build long-term stability
- Strengthening home and business security initiatives to protect what people have worked hard for
By tackling the root causes of these crimes—financial stress, conflict at home, and lack of access to opportunity—we’re creating lasting change.
Why This Matters for All of Topeka
When Hi-Crest thrives, all of Topeka benefits.
- Safer neighborhoods attract investment and economic growth. More businesses and families will see Hi-Crest as a place to put down roots.
- Healthier communities mean stronger schools and better opportunities for kids. Lower crime leads to better mental health, school performance, and family stability.
- Hi-Crest can serve as a model for transformation. What’s happening here proves that investment in people works—and that any neighborhood can be a place of progress.
Hi-Crest: A Community That Builds
Hi-Crest’s story isn’t about challenges—it’s about triumphs. It’s about neighbors who look out for each other, leaders who invest in the next generation, and a shared belief that we are stronger together.
We’re not waiting on someone else to change our neighborhood—we’re doing it ourselves.
Now, we invite you to be part of this next chapter. What ideas do you have? How can we continue making Hi-Crest a safer, stronger place?
The momentum is here. The vision is clear. Let’s Drive to 100—together.