Bringing Communities Back Initiative: Helping to Revitalize Chicago’s Far South Side
Far South Community Development Corporation (Far South CDC) is dedicated to alleviating poverty, blight, and economic distress through effective economic and community development. Their Bringing Communities Back Initiative aims to transform nearly one million square feet of neglected community areas into vibrant community centers.
As a non-profit 501(c)(3), the Far South CDC is one of the largest community development organizations in the Chicago region. It offers direct residential support and strategic community-building services to residents and businesses in the Far South Side Chicago and south suburban Cook County neighborhoods.
Far South CDC value includes:
- Advocating for economic, environmental, and social justice, thereby preserving and protecting the region for residents and businesses;
- Promoting and enhancing the region’s cultural dynamics by marketing existing assets and programs;
- Fostering growth through local partnerships by developing business opportunities, community and housing services, and planning initiatives that are equitable and beneficial for all.
Bringing Communities Back Initiative will focus on three goals:
- Building impact-driven community assets through strategic real estate development projects that will provide new housing options to increase population density and improve commercial corridors;
- Increase community wealth with targeted investments in minority contracting opportunities, homeownership, and grants to residents and businesses derived from profits gained from development and management activities;
- Providing education and support through Far South CDC’s existing small business and housing support services
Within the last five years, Far South CDC has raised more than $55 million in public and private investments for BCBI projects and programs, including:
- South Halsted Gateway
- Single & Multi-Family Renovations and New Construction
- Roseland Forward
In essence, Far South CDC plays a key role in fostering thriving, resilient, and prosperous communities on Chicago’s Far South Side. If you’re interested in learning more about their work or getting involved, please visit their website: farsouthcdc.org