Michael J. von Gebel: Rebuilding Hope and Leading Change in St. Louis’ Vandeventer Neighborhood

 


In the heart of St. Louis, one man’s determination to see potential instead of problems is transforming an entire neighborhood. Michael J. von Gebel, President of the Vandeventer Community Development Corporation (CDC), has spent the past several years leading by example — mowing vacant lots after a devastating tornado, organizing residents, and helping secure millions in reinvestment for his community.

For his leadership, vision, and deep sense of neighborliness, Michael has been named one of Missouri’s Top 20 Most Engaged Neighbors of 2025, part of Missouri Good Neighbor Week, a statewide celebration led by University of Missouri Extension and The Hopeful Neighborhood Project. The honor recognizes Missourians whose everyday acts of care and civic action create belonging and pride where they live.

Seeing Promise Where Others Saw Problems

Michael’s passion for community renewal began when he and his wife purchased a home on Page Boulevard in 2021. “I was raised to take care of your neighborhood — it reflects the people who live there,” he explained. While rehabbing the property, he met a neighbor, Ms. Yvonne Carter, who encouraged him to join the local neighborhood association. That introduction changed the course of his retirement.

“We wanted to do more,” Michael said. “So, with Judith Arnold, an urban planner, we formed the Vandeventer Community Development Corporation. The people’s faith in me to lead sustains me. I’ve always believed that what you have is what you worked for. I was able to look past the flaws of our neighborhood and see the promise of what it will be.”

Leading a Neighborhood Renaissance

Under Michael’s leadership, Vandeventer has experienced one of the most dramatic turnarounds in north St. Louis. “It gives me a great sense of pride and accomplishment in how far our neighborhood has come in three years,” he said. “At my age, I look at what has been accomplished and realize age is just a number.”

Since 2022, the neighborhood has secured nearly $169 million in public and private investment, with major developments such as Foster Funeral Home, Vandeventer Place II, AMICSTL, and Monarch on MLK completed or under construction. Upcoming projects include the Hodiamont Tracks Greenway, Orise, and It’s All About Delmar — all testaments to what organized neighbors can achieve together.

Michael’s nominator noted that his leadership doesn’t stop at board meetings. After a tornado hit the neighborhood, “Michael purchased a riding mower and began cutting vacant lots when the City couldn’t keep up,” they wrote. “He’s respectful, helpful, and dependable — a true good neighbor who can be counted on in times of need.”

Simple Actions, Lasting Impact

For Michael, neighborliness is both practical and personal. “Saying hello, introducing myself, sharing our annual report, and inviting people to meetings makes a big difference,” he said. “I stop to check in and see how people are doing — and if there’s a problem, I want to know.”

He also believes that being a good neighbor begins right at home: “Make sure your house and yard set an example. If you see litter, pick it up. If an elder needs help, offer it. One person can be their own army and make a difference. Remember, it was David who slew Goliath — not the other way around.”

A Legacy of Leadership

Through grit, faith, and a deep love for his community, Michael J. von Gebel has helped turn hope into progress in Vandeventer. His story reminds us that revitalizing a neighborhood begins not with outside investors or city programs, but with neighbors who care enough to act.


Written by David L. Burton

MORE INFORMATION

Take the Engaged Neighbor pledge and become part of a movement! The pledge outlines five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge at https://nomoregoodneighbors.com. Individuals who take the pledge do get special invitations to future events online and in person. Contact the blog author, David L. Burton via email at dburton541@yahoo.com or burtond@missouri.edu. You can also visit his website at https://engagedneighbor.com.

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