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Columbia Association

Columbia Association (CA) is a nonprofit community services corporation that manages Columbia, MD, home to approximately 100,000 people. Columbia was founded in 1967 by James Rouse and his Howard Research and Development Company. Rouse sought to build a complete city that would respect the land, provide for the growth of people and, ultimately make a profit. Columbia strives to be a community that welcomes diversity, respects the land and fosters the growth of individuals. To sustain that vision, Columbia boasts a full complement of services. There is a vibrant town center featuring Lake Kittamaqundi, a promenade, restaurants, a mall with a variety of shops, department stores and a multiplex movie theater. There are quality recreational and childcare services, schools that rank among the highest in the state, and acres of parks, lakes, ponds and wooded pathways. Despite the breadth and variety of our services, what makes Columbia truly special is an ongoing commitment to the vision espoused by James Rouse, our founding father. As he stated, “By creating the image of the rational potential of a city, we generate the power to carry it forward. Without vision, there is no power.” At Columbia Association, we consider ourselves keepers of Columbia’s vision. In support of this vision, Columbia Association offers a vast array of recreational, cultural and community services (See full list on website). In addition, CA maintains nearly 3,600 acres of open space as a permanent asset for residents. Neighborhood amenities include lakes, parks, tot lots, basketball and tennis courts and 95 miles of walking, jogging and biking pathways.

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