Featured photo: Glenn Wilson, provided by Communities First, Inc.
Flint, MI – Glenn Wilson, co-founder andpPresident and CEO of Communities First, Inc. (CFI), has been honored as one of Crain’s Detroit Business’ Notable Black Business Leaders. This recognition underscores his role as a visionary leader in Michigan and highlights Wilson’s significant impact in leading CFI’s mission of building healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing and innovative programming.
Since co-founding CFI in 2010, Glenn Wilson has spearheaded a multitude of initiatives that have transformed communities throughout the state. Under his leadership, CFI has secured over $100 million in real estate development funds, developed or maintained over 600 housing units and amassed 3 million square feet of commercial space. Throughout this process, CFI has served 35,000 people yearly, created over 1,000 jobs and provided opportunities for 250 volunteers.
In response to this honor, Glenn Wilson shared, “I am deeply grateful to be recognized among such talented group of leaders. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of our dedicated team at Communities First, Inc. One of our primary goals is to build and empower communities through mission-driven innovative approaches whether through programming or real estate development. I am proud of what we’ve accomplished, and I look forward to continuing our work to improve the lives of those we serve.”
Wilson’s expertise extends beyond real estate and economic development. He is also a prominent advocate for climate change initiatives, service-based industries and a leader in various nonprofit corporate board and advisory roles. His commitment to service and his strategic vision have made him a key figure in shaping the future of community development in Michigan.
The Crain’s article about Wilson noted that he has successfully transformed a 39-acre campus formerly used by Baker College in Genesee County into a community health hub, enhancing mental health services, substance use disorder programs, housing, childcare and workforce training.
Wilson currently serves on several boards including, Michigan Housing Council Board of Directors, the Michigan Historic Preservation Network board and on the Corporate Board of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis, where he serves as vice chair of the Affordable Housing Committee and a member of the Audit and Technology Committee. Additionally, Wilson diversifies his knowledge of various sectors by serving on the boards of Mass Transportation Authority and Valley Area Agency on Aging. He lends his knowledge of finance and regulatory requirements to the Elga Credit Union Supervisory and Audit Committee.
Communities First, Inc. is known for its proactive approach to addressing community needs, including expanding affordable housing opportunities, fostering economic growth, supporting small businesses and providing innovative programming in underserved areas. With Wilson at the helm, the organization continues to drive positive change and set new standards for community development.
The full list of Crain’s Detroit Business’ Notable Black Business Leaders was featured in the Sept. 9 issue of the publication.
For more information about Communities First, Inc. and Glenn Wilson’s leadership, please visit
communitiesfirstinc.org.
About Communities First, Inc. (CFI)
Communities First, Inc. is a nonprofit Community Development Corporation. Headquartered in Flint, CFI serves over 35,000 community members across Michigan and Indiana. CFI’s mission is to build healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing and innovative programming. More information about Communities First, Inc. can be found at www.communitiesfirstinc.org.
