CNI Annual Report 2016

| 2016 Annual Report
2
Dear Friends,
From the
Chairman
Since 2010, I have watched CNI evolve from a fledgling
nonprofit focused on community development into
a respected leader in bringing jobs, retail, homes and
services to economically-challenged neighborhoods
throughout Chicago. CNI’s staff works tirelessly
alongside residents in Chicago’s low-to-moderate
income neighborhoods to create economic mobility
and healthier lifestyles for the people who live there.
We advocate to change broken systems and to foster
social and economic justice. Our first Annual Report
demonstrates the impact of our accomplishments and
recognizes the work remaining.
Thanks to all of our partners who have made the past six
years achievable. We look to you for support and feedback
as we journey to make neighborhoods more equitable.
Sincerely,
Merlon Jackson Senior Pastor,
Christ Community Church
Meet Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives
Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives, Inc. (CNI) is a nonprofit
community and economic development organization with a
bold vision for the future of Chicago’s neighborhoods. Using
a highly focused place-based approach, CNI collaborates
with community members, civic leaders and the business
community to attract investment to underserved and
distressed neighborhoods on the city’s South and West
Sides and transform them into vibrant communities where
more people are choosing to live, to work and to play.
Rooted in the historic Pullman neighborhood, which was
designated a National Monument in 2015, CNI applies
professional experience and deep community ties to the
revitalization of the neighborhood. The successful results
of CNI’s public-private investment model are clearly visible
throughout Pullman and other neighborhoods across
Chicago. CNI accomplishes broad impact by undertaking
high-impact residential, commercial and industrial real
estate development, acquiring and preserving affordable
housing, and offering responsible financial services and
products for growing small businesses.
CNI provides resources to create a brighter future for the
neighborhoods we serve. We are excited to share our first
annual report to show what we accomplish through our
tools and partnerships.
Our Mission
CNI revitalizes Chicago neighborhoods and creates jobs
by developing high-impact economic projects, providing
entrepreneurs and homeowners with access to financial
resources, and building sustainable community partnerships.