The Shaw Neighborhood Improvement Association (SNIA) is a non-profit organization that was formed in 1958 and was incorporated in 1975. The SNIA serves the residents of the Shaw neighborhood by providing information, facilitating discussion, and acting on solutions.

Meetings

View the meeting schedule.
SNIA’s Shaw neighborhood meetings (click that link for all meeting minutes) provide opportunities to personally interact with our ward’s Alderperson, the 2nd District Police, our City’s Circuit Attorney’s office, the Neighborhood Improvement Specialist, SNIA Officers, as well as to meet other residents of our community. The Chairs of each SNIA committee are present at meetings to provide updates and answer questions pertaining to committee activities. Meeting agendas address current issues that are relevant to Shaw Neighborhood and St. Louis City. Shaw neighborhood meetings are held bimonthly starting in February.

Governance

The corporation is managed by an Executive Committee and governed by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors is comprised of representatives of each block in the Shaw Neighborhood. The Board of Directors meet bimonthly starting in January. Read SNIA’s bylaws.

Membership

By joining SNIA, your donation goes directly to supporting the many programs and activities that SNIA members and committee chairs organize and work on to enhance the quality of life in Shaw. Aside from our superstar part-time officer manager, SNIA is completely volunteer-run. Some of the programs that your donation supports include:

  • FREE ADMISSION to the renowned Historic Shaw Art Fair, which has taken place the first weekend of October since 1993,
  • beautification of Shaw, from restoration and maintenance of our green spaces to working with the City on streetscape improvements,
  • engagement with the youth of our neighborhood through various projects and events,
  • management of information related to the Shaw neighborhood, including linking interested buyers and renters with future neighbors, managing social media, and archiving of historic information,
  • promoting events occurring in and around the neighborhood

Vision/Mission/Values

VISION

A thriving, inclusive, and connected Shaw—where neighbors work together to honor our history, celebrate our diversity, and shape a vibrant, sustainable future for all.

MISSION

The Shaw Neighborhood Improvement Association (SNIA) connects residents, businesses, and stakeholders to preserve the unique character of Shaw’s historic charm, promote equitable development, strengthen community bonds, and improve the quality of life for all who live, work, and visit our neighborhood.

VALUES

S – Stewardship

We commit to caring for Shaw’s shared spaces, artistic and cultural history, and future through thoughtful, sustainable action and accountability.

N – Nurture

We cultivate a community rich in connection, creativity, and shared experiences, ensuring every neighbor has opportunities to grow and flourish.

I – Inclusion

We strengthen inclusion by uplifting diverse voices and advocating for a neighborhood where everyone can afford to live, participate, and belong.

A – Action

We turn community ideas into tangible improvement, that make Shaw stronger, more vibrant, and artistically alive.

IMPACT

S – Safe Spaces

We create secure, peaceful, and supportive environments for all who live, work, and visit Shaw.

H – Harmony

We foster understanding, respect, and cooperation, building stronger connections across our community.

A – Abundance

We empower one another to grow a community rich in opportunity, well-being, and shared prosperity, with limitless potential.

W – Welcoming

We welcome all neighbors and visitors, embracing differences as a source of strength and allowing everyone to live as their authentic selves.