Oak Street Ribbon Cutting

On September 26, 2014, Communities First, Inc. celebrated the Grand Opening of Oak Street Senior Apartments. The event was attended by nearly 300 supporters joined in the celebration. It was an exciting day with great weather, food and entertainment!

The event began with a string trio made up of musicians from the Flint Symphony Orchestra. This performance gave attendees a sampling of our Culture Shock program. Upon arrival, guests were invited to take pictures on the red carpet in front of the Grand Opening ribbon and their pictures were emailed to them as a memento of this event. Once everyone was seated, speeches began and many kind words were shared about the project, Communities First, Inc., our founders, and the impact that Oak Street Senior Apartments will have on the surrounding community.

Speakers for the event included: Dr. Eleanor Goodman, Chairperson, Communities First, Inc., Pastor Tim Forsthoff, Cornerstone Church, Matt Appleton, President, GTDNA, Sue Peters, Program Officer, Michigan LISC, Robert Matthews, Executive Dean, Mott Workforce Development, Douglas Weiland, Executive Director, Genesee County Land Bank Authority, Christopher LaGrand, Chief Housing Investment Officer, MSHDA, Mayor Dayne Walling, City of Flint, Congressman Dan Kildee, Representing the 5th District of Michigan, Mark Linton, Executive Director of the White House Council on Strong Cities, Strong Communities, Antonio Riley, Midwest Regional Administrator, U.S. Dept. of HUD, Glenn and Essence Wilson, Co-Founders, Communities First, Inc.

Next, it was time for the part that everyone had been waiting patiently for – tours of the building! By this time the string trio had moved to the lobby and was playing as guests walked in. Attendees were greeted by an amazing sculpture from the Mott-Warsh collection as they entered the doors. To the right was the brick, left exposed from the historic building that could be seen from the new addition. Additional artwork from the Mott-Warsh collection was displayed throughout the building. The library was a sight to see as it has been dedicated to Ms. Sara E. Rios, former president of the Ruth Mott Foundation. A plaque and her picture are located in the library to recognize the contributions Ms. Rios made in the Flint community. The health services room was sponsored by Hurley Medical Center and features medical supplies and literature for the benefit of Oak Street Senior Apartments residents.

In total, there are 24 apartments, of which 6 are barrier free units. These units have been specially designed for individuals in wheelchairs who can still live independently. The other apartments are adaptable and visitable. An elevator provides access to each level of the building and utilization of the various common areas is encouraged for all tenants. Common areas include: the main lobby, the first floor elevator lobby, second floor lobby, laundry area, library, community room, and activity room.

Following tours, guests were encouraged to enjoy a light meal in the community room. There was also the opportunity to offer words of reflection on camera in the activity room and the chance to sign the “Putting Communities First Community Agreement”. Many community residents, former students of Oak School and public officials commented on the beauty, creativity and preservation of the historic structure throughout the event. Potential residents were invited to meet with the property manager to submit their applications and get their questions answered. The apartments leased very quickly and the residents are exciting about their new home.

Sponsors for the Grand Opening Event were:

Community Sponsors ($5,000)

Siwek Construction Company
Hurley Medical Center

Room Sponsors ($3000)

PNC Bank

Community Sponsors ($5,000)

Room Sponsors ($3000)

Event Sponsors ($1,000)

Program Sponsors ($500)