Over 20 Years of
Community Transformation
Growing people with community from the bottom up since 2002.
THE CVIC STORY
Anthony Oliver
CVIC Board Chairman: 2002- present
Founding Executive Director Streetwise newspaper 1993-2005
Community Venture Investment Corp (CVIC) is celebrating 24 years of impact, capturing the spirit of Chicago by demonstrating how small, purpose-driven businesses can strengthen the local economy and improve social conditions. Inspired by my years working with the StreetWise newspaper from 1993 to 2005, CVIC is founded on the belief that real and lasting economic growth starts at the community level and rises from the bottom up. On September 13, 2026, at our anniversary event, we celebrate the lifetime work of Danny K Davis, the most consequential Congressman of my lifetime.
StreetWise Newspaper was created in 1992 to help homeless and at‑risk individuals build confidence, develop skills, and move toward self‑sufficiency. That same spirit guides Community Venture Investment Corp (CVIC) today. Our work is rooted in Chicago’s low‑ to moderate‑income neighborhoods, where we focus on creating opportunities that strengthen both individuals and neighborhoods on the city’s west and south sides. Our mission is simply to grow men and women with community.
Once a blighted commercial corridor in historic Woodlawn, the area at 6501-6543 South Cottage Grove is now revitalized and anchored by the Obama Presidential Library Center. This transformation has created a beacon of hope, inspired by the message of “Loving Us First.”
The opening a Clean and Fresh Laundromat in August 2025, located at 6509 S Cottage Grove, as well as a free health center called Innovations at Commons, a nurse-led clinic located at 6533 S. Cottage Grove, led by Dr. Mollie Khachale, a professor at DePaul University and a reflection garden located at 6513-31 South Cottage grove, we are successfully modeling economic eco-system envisioned for “Lifestyle on the Grove” new developmet.
CVIC is proud to introduce Lifestyle on the Grove, an 81-unit affordable housing development that integrates commercial and residential spaces and is designed to enhance the neighborhood’s economic ecosystem. Unlike traditional egosystems, where social structures are often overlooked, CVIC’s success has been built on grassroots economic growth. Our purpose drives our mission: we MUST economically empower individuals through neighborhood development, full-stop!
Purposeful economics strengthening the social fabric eco-system. Welcoming, lifestyles intersecting, affordable housing, wellness and self-reflection.This is a neighborhood that strengthens community. This is Loving Us First, Lifestyles on the Grove.
Please join us on our journey as we celebrate the grand opening of the new Obama Presidential Library all summer. Look for our podcast Lifestyle@TheIntersection, “Mastering Capital and Commerce, coming soon. This is a journey of “bottom-up economic
Meet Our Leadership Team
Dedicated professionals building Chicago’s future.
Corey Oliver
CVIC CEO
Suzanne Lynch
Accounting and Finance Manager
Jacqueline Zuniga
Administrative Coordinator
Eugene Logan
Maintenance Director
Keith McDonald
Media Director
Kenny Flowers
Social media manager
Our Mission
Community Venture Investment Corporation (CVIC) is a for-profit S corporation founded in 2002. Our mission is to promote economic growth and long-term stability in low- to moderate- income communities by investing in people and preserving naturally occurring affordable housing- Grow People with Community from the Bottom Up!!
Our Vision
Community Venture Investment Corporation (CVIC) envisions vibrant, resilient communities where low‑ to moderate‑income individuals have access to quality affordable housing and sustainable economic opportunities. Through thoughtful investments that strengthen engagement and equity, we work to build neighborhoods that support growth and well‑being for generations.
Our Values
At Community Venture Investment Corporation (CVIC), we believe in the transformative power of community and the strength found when intersecting beyond boundaries. Our commitment extends beyond mere investment; we strive to empower individuals, uplift neighborhoods, and foster a sense of belonging. We value integrity, collaboration, and innovation, always prioritizing the needs of the communities we serve. By preserving affordable housing and investing in people, we aim to create sustainable pathways to prosperity. Together, we can build a brighter future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, strengthening the fabric of our society for generations to come.