CHICAGO - On February 18th, the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) Chicago presented the 22nd Annual Chicago Neighborhood Development Awards (CNDA) to recognize and honor the top community development and architectural design projects in the city's neighborhoods.
Enlace Chicago was recognized as a leader in community planning for convening partners and community residents to develop The Little Village Quality of Life Plan, and for the subsequent formation and strengthening of local coalitions to carry out the work.
"We would like to thank the 650 community residents and 80 partner agencies that participated in the planning process, who continue working hard at furthering the development and implementation of the strategies outlined in the plan. We share this honor with each and every one of you!" said Executive Director Katya Nuques, as she accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
The Little Village Quality of Life identified eight focus areas: arts and culture, economic development, education, green space and recreation, health, housing, immigration and safety. Issue-focused neighborhood stakeholder networks were established or strengthened in order to implement the goals and strategies outlined in the plan. The incredible success of the Little Village Quality of Life Plan's implementation can be seen in the proliferation of community resources across key areas identified in the plan; improved coordination among community agencies, public and private institutions; physical improvements in the community, particularly recreational spaces connected to schools; and the development of hyper-local research now guiding collective impact strategies in numerous key areas.
"The Chicago Neighborhood Development Awards celebrate the committed network of community development professionals and not only recognizes Chicago's neighborhoods, but honors the outstanding achievement in neighborhood real estate development, community engagement, neighborhood planning, and building stronger and healthier communities," said LISC Chicago Interim Executive Director Caroline Goldstein.
Established in 1995, CNDA is the largest celebration of the creativity and accomplishments that transform neighborhoods across the city. During the ceremony CNDA presented six community development awards: three Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Architectural Excellence in Community Design, the Chicago Community Trust Outstanding Community Plan Award, and two awards for personal achievement to individuals. Winners in each category are selected after an extensive review by a team of judges.