Community
GMA’s projects empower underserved communities with new and/or improved community assets and high-paying job opportunities in the construction industry ensuring sustainability and wealth accumulation for future generations. In an industry that has historically underperformed in creating opportunity, GMA has proven methods for ensuring representation and providing seats at the table for other disadvantaged businesses.
Community Hiring Initiative
GMA hires members of the community to work on every project we undertake. Roles, such as laborer, are reserved for individuals from the community in which the project resides, opening the door to career opportunities in the construction industry. Through a combination of on-the-job training and partnerships with accredited construction training programs, our community hires are equipped with the skills needed to be successful in the industry.
Our Initiative in Action
Auburn Gresham Apartments
On the Auburn Gresham Apartments project, GMA's jobsite team included three local hires working as laborers. GMA partnered with developer, Evergreen/Imagine, to ensure community hiring goals were met.
National Public Housing Museum + Residences
On the National Public Housing Museum + Residences, a package of work within the Roosevelt Square project, developer, Related Midwest, set a project-wide goal of 47 hires across all professional, clerical, trade, logistics, warehousing and manufacturing careers.
Award Winning Impact
Cornelius Griggs, Groundbreaker of the Year 2024, Procore Technologies
Community Impact
Spreading Cheer
GMA, in partnership with organizations such as Black Men United, hosts annual toy drives to provide children living near its jobsites with toys and other necessities during the holidays.
Established Programs
GMA has established several notable programs including the CREATE Program in partnership with the Austin College and Career Academy to support, encourage, and promote student interest in engineering careers, the Construction Management Degree Program at Kennedy-King College, where GMA President, Cornelius Griggs, served as Program Chair and Professor, and the Technical Assistance Program with the Illinois Tollway to provide comprehensive assistance to small, diverse businesses looking to win work with the tollway.
Ensuring Student Success
GMA, in partnership with our trusted subcontractors, hosts annual back-to-school drives where local students receive backpacks pre-filled with school supplies for the year. In 2023, GMA distributed more than 1,000 backpacks to local students.
Supporting Local Families
Family-focused events, such as a community carnival, are hosted to provide family-friendly activities, teach the community about the project, and provide information on hiring opportunities.