Community development corporations honored for neighborhood achievements

Saavy Detroit-observers recognize that the real workhorses of the development world are community development corporations (CDCs). Often the first to invest in an area, their work paves the way for market-rate development.

Every year, two of the CDC world’s biggest supporters, Detroit Local Initiative Support Corporation (LISC) and the Community Development Advocates of Detroit (CDAD) band together to recognize the year’s biggest success stories in their community. At this year’s luncheon, five CDCs and one individual were recognized.

The Masco CDC of the Year was awarded to the Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation (GRCD). The organization works to strengthen the Grand River commercial corridor with facade grants and infrastructure improvements, organizes a weekly farmer’s market and will break ground on three new infill houses later this year.

“It’s nice to get this kind of recognition every now and then,” says executive director Tom Goddeeris. “We’ve been around for 18 years, and every year presents new challenges.” GRDC is preparing to embark on its first-ever capital campaign to raise funds for its new headquarters. “This process is a continuation from year to year, but this year we are branching out into some new things,” he says. “We’re pleased to have them recognize us for it.”

Other awards presented include:

• Leadership: Creekside Community Development Corporation
• Partner: Focus:HOPE
• Neighborhood Impact: Detroit Community Initiative
• Innovations: Jefferson East Business Association
• One to Watch: Great Corktown Development Corporation
• Legacy Award: Vincent Murray, executive director, Bagley Housing Association

Model D wishes to extend our congratulations to the winners and our thanks to all of Detroit’s hard-working CDCs.

Sources: LISC and Tom Goddeeris, GRDC
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh