Communities First, Inc.

Affordable Housing

• Pursuing funding to support affordable housing development
• Developing housing for low to moderate income individuals
• Developing housing for vulnerable populations
• Establishing partnerships to develop affordable housing

Economic Development

• Creating employment opportunities
• Providing business development services to youth and adult entrepreneurs
• Securing funding for distressed communities
• Developing mixed-use commercial projects

Green Programs

• Educating residents and businesses about developing environmentally friendly habits
• Utilizing sustainable operating practices
• Employing green construction methods
• Promoting and producing environmentally sustainable communities

Culture Shock

• Improve the overall quality of life for residents of distressed communities
• Educating residents and businesses about developing environmentally friendly habits through the Green Life Community Education Program
• Provide opportunities for cultural exposure to affordable housing and community residents through Culture Shock, an innovative program designed to inspire an interest in arts and culture

The mission of Communities First, Inc. is to build healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing and innovative programming.

Founded in 2010 by Glenn and Essence Wilson, Communities First, Inc. has grown extensively in just a few short years. As Flint natives who are passionate about their hometown, it only made sense to focus their efforts on the Flint area. The combination of their skills with those of a dedicated board of directors has allowed Communities First, Inc. to do great work in the Flint community.

The first project that the organization took on was the Oak Street Senior Apartments, formerly known as Oak School in Flint, Michigan. This $5.1 million project has opened the doors for future projects and is a great starting point for Communities First, Inc. This project lead to Swayze Court Apartments opening in 2016. Currently, CFI is redeveloping Coolidge Elementary to be another affordable apartment complex. 

If you are interested in becoming a Communities First volunteer, please click the following link to fill out an application: https://app.betterimpact.com/PublicOrganization/abe7bd7c-1b96-4b07-aaa3-907452c8f00b/2.