Flint, Mich. – Communities First, Inc. is excited to announce the return of the Step-Up, Pick-Up Competition 2025, taking place September 14th through September 27th, 2025, in the City of Flint.

This fun competition invites neighborhood organizations, churches, businesses, and community groups across Flint to come together to improve their community while promoting health and wellness.

Participants will compete to collect the most trash and take the most steps during the two-week event. The competition encourages community pride, cleaner neighborhoods, and healthier lifestyles through teamwork and movement.

Prizes will be awarded as follows:
• First Place: $1,000
• Second Place: $500
• Third Place: $250

“This competition is about more than winning,” said Essence Wilson co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Communities First, Inc. “It is about building stronger, vibrant neighborhoods, reducing litter in our community, and having fun while making a difference.”

The Step-Up, Pick-Up Competition is open to any neighborhood organization, church, business, or community group in the City of Flint. Organizations should register no later than September 12th, 2025, and directions on how to track cleanup activities will be provided upon
registration.

CFI will also award five, $50 Litter Champion awards to celebrate individuals leading the fight against blight and litter in our community.
Registration is now open: tinyurl.com/SUPU2025

A special thank you to Meijer for sponsoring this competition.

About Communities First, Inc. (CFI)
Communities First, Inc. is a nonprofit Community Development Corporation headquartered in Flint. Serving over 35,000 individuals across Michigan and Indiana, CFI is dedicated to building healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing, and
innovative programming. Learn more at www.communitiesfirstinc.org.