Frequently Asked Questions
Who is LINC Community Revitalization Inc.?
Incorporated in 2000, change name in 2011 from Lighthouse Communities, Inc. to LINC Community Revitalization Inc a 501(c)3 nonprofit community development corporation (CDC) based in the city of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
What is LINC's mission?
LINC's mission is to "help grass-roots non-profit community development groups create affordable housing in their neighborhood for the purpose of stimulating community revitalization." We are founded on the premise of linking community-organizing efforts with real estate development. We use both cutting edge community development techniques and the latest tools for real estate development in helping neighbors, business owners, and neighborhood stakeholders realize their visions for the community.
What is the history of LINC.?
LINC incorporated on June 13, 2000 after a community-based collaborative planning process that included local community development corporations, neighborhood associations, builders, foundations, representatives from the City of Grand Rapids' community development office, Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and, most importantly, residents of core city neighborhoods.
LINC engages in effective community revitalization through partnerships and collaborations with numerous community-based organizations and other neighborhood stakeholders. LINC is founded on the premise of linking community organization efforts with real estate development. We use both cutting edge community development techniques and the latest tools for real estate development in helping neighbors, business owners, and community stakeholders realize their visions for the community.
LINC investments have grown significantly over the last five years. LINC has invested over $30 million in housing and commercial development.
What are LINC's values?
- Diversity
- Sustainability
- Excellence
- Building partnerships
- Investment
- Community service
- Leadership
- Teamwork
What type of programs and services does LINC offer?
LINC offers several programs and services to a diverse pool of customers including homeowners, families, youth, business owners, and rental property owners. Our services include: housing, economic development, construction, and neighborhood services. Our programs include: homeownership promotion and preservation, leadership and capacity building, Southtown Matching Fund (SMF), Neighborhood Housing Fund (NHF), Lead Remediation program, foreclosure prevention, housing counseling, rental property management, and business incubation.
What geographic area(s) does LINC serve?
LINC provides services to Kent County. In the city of Grand Rapids we also serve a specific geographic area known as Southtown, an area bounded by Wealthy Street on the north, Fuller Avenue on the east, Dickinson Street to Buchanan Avenue on the south, and Buchanan Avenue to Albany to Division Avenue on the west. (See map of Southtown).
How do I get involved with LINC?
If you would like to learn about volunteer opportunities, visit our calendar or contact us please contact us by phone at (616) 451-9140. If you would like to make a charitable donation online to support LINC, Click here.
Do you provide funding to individuals or organizations?
LINC does not provide funding directly to individuals. Through the Southtown Matching Fund, a City of Grand Rapids Community Development Block grant funded program, LINC provides funding to neighborhood-based organizations, block club groups and resident groups in Southtown. Homeowners, rental property owners and homebuyers, please visit our Housing Services page for information on programs available. Business owners please visit our Commercial Services page for information on programs and assistance available through LINC.
Have other questions?
Contact us by phone at (616) 451-9140, by mail at the street address below or by email for more information.
LINC Community Revitalization Inc.
1167 Madison Avenue SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Phone: (616) 451-9140
Fax: (616)- 451-0615
Can I buy a house through Lighthouse Communities, Inc.?
Yes, visit our Housing Services page for details, complete the application form online or download the form right here.
Can I view a list of houses available for sale through LINC?
Yes, click here for a listing of homes available for sale.
Can I view a list of places available for rent through LINC?
Yes, click here for a listing of places available for rent.
Can I rent a place through LINC?
Yes, visit our Housing Services page for details, complete the application form online or download the form right here.
Have issues with your business and need assistance?
Visit our Economic Development page for details on the type of technical assistance or training available or simply email our Economic Development department right now.
Housing Services Questions
Have questions about our homeownership programs?
Visit our Housing Services page or read here our Guide to Homeownership in Kent County.
