The annual Community First^® Awards recognize member institutions and local partners for their work building and strengthening communities in four categories: Partnership, Project or Program, Pioneer, and Emerging Leader.

The Partnership category recognizes the collective, ongoing efforts of a multidisciplinary team of stakeholders to make positive and long-lasting impacts.

The Project or Program category recognizes an outstanding single- or multi-family project, or an innovative program, in support of a broader community and/or economic development strategy. Projects must have completed construction within the last three years and be in either Illinois or Wisconsin to be eligible in this category.

The Pioneer category recognizes a career of achievements of an individual who has demonstrated an ongoing dedication to investing his/her time and improving his/her surroundings through community and/or economic development activities. His/her characteristics may include perseverance, consensus building, the ability to share knowledge, and a steadfast vision. Eligible nominees may be employed by an FHLBC member or a partner organization.

The Emerging Leader category recognizes the promise of an individual new to the affordable housing and/or community development field (defined as ten or fewer years). His/her characteristics may include natural curiosity, confidence, receptivity to considering new or unconventional approaches, and humility. Eligible nominees may be employed by an FHLBC member or a partner organization. 

Read about the 2016 award winners here.

Award recipients identify a non-profit organization to receive up to $10,000 on their behalf. Please submit all nominations to ci@fhlbc.com by January 20, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. To submit a nomination, please reference the nomination form.