Origin and Evolution
Watch episode five of CFI’s The Idea Room podcast. View all our podcasts here on YouTube!
“Inspiration came from seeing how needs weren’t being met and how we could uplift the community’s voice through our projects.”
– Glenn Wilson
Mission
The mission of Communities First, Inc. is to build healthy vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing and innovative programming.
Motto
Empowering People. Building Communities.
Values
Our core values are:
Yearly Vision
Building on Excellence: A Year of Achievement and Forward Momentum
As we look ahead to 2026, Communities First, Inc. reflects with gratitude and pride on an award-winning 2025—a year defined by progress, purpose, and powerful community partnerships. Coming off the celebration of our 15th anniversary, we continued the momentum of our Crystal Year by expanding our impact, strengthening our programs, and reaching new milestones across every area of the organization.
In 2025, our team earned several awards (view them on our press release page here) recognizing our leadership in community development, innovative programming, and organizational excellence. These honors reflect not only the dedication of our staff and volunteers but also the trust and support of the residents and partners who walk alongside us every day.
We also made significant strides in our development work—advancing equitable real estate projects, expanding housing opportunities, and strengthening our economic mobility efforts. Each initiative moved us closer to our mission of building healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing, and innovative programming. Guided by our mission, we work to empower families and strengthen neighborhoods, creating vibrant communities where everyone can thrive.
Our community engagement programs shined as well. We hosted nine Movies Under the Stars events across Flint, Saginaw, and Detroit, creating safe, joyful spaces where families could gather and connect. We also launched the 11th season of our African American Film Series in Flint, showcasing impactful films by African American filmmakers and performers, and expanded the series into Detroit with a special screening at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. In 2026, we’re excited to bring Movies Under the Stars to a fourth city—Gary, Indiana, expanding our reach and impact even further.
CFI Co-Founders Glenn and Essence Wilson
Another major highlight was taking on leadership of the Levitt AMP Flint Music Series, presenting 11 free concerts that brought thousands downtown for live music, culture, and unity. We look forward to another dynamic season in 2026.
The Family Mobility Savings Program (FMSP) continued in 2025 in Detroit and Flint, helping participants build emergency savings with up to $1,000 in matching contributions. Open to residents 18 and older who are ready to take steps toward financial stability, the program empowers families to plan for a stronger, more secure future.
We are proud to debut our first-ever Crystal Ball later in 2026—a signature gala celebrating 15 years of impact and the exciting future ahead. The evening will include cocktails, a delicious dinner, a dessert and coffee bar, live music, dancing, and opportunities to partner with us. It will be a memorable celebration of community, achievement, and vision.
Our three pillars—economic mobility, equitable real estate development, and engaged communities—have never been more critical. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive in a healthy, vibrant community, and these pillars guide every program, project, and partnership we undertake.
Last year’s theme, Excellence is the Standard, guided us as we deepened relationships, expanded opportunity, and honored the stories of the communities we serve
As we step into 2026, we’re reflecting on what was made possible through the strength of our community, partners, staff, volunteers, and supporters and serving more than 45,000 community members across Michigan and Indiana. Together, we hosted 134 events, housed 804 tenants, and served residents across five cities. From large-scale community experiences like Movies Under the Stars and Levitt AMP Music Series to meaningful connections through Community Mixers, Community Candor, and cultural celebrations, thousands of people came together in impactful ways. This work was powered by 360 volunteers contributing more than 3,500 hours, the support of our interns, and a dedicated CFI team committed to making it all happen.
This year, we are proud to introduce our 2026 theme: Show Up and Show Out, reflecting our commitment to innovation, bold thinking, and the next chapter of growth at Communities First, Inc.
As we enter 2026, we do so with clarity of purpose and renewed energy. We are deeply grateful for the supporters, partners, residents, and champions who make this work possible. Together, we will continue creating stronger, more equitable communities and building a future filled with opportunity for all.
With appreciation and forward momentum,
Glenn Wilson
President & CEO
Communities First, Inc.
Essence Wilson
Chief Strategy Officer
Communities First, Inc.
