On April 28, 2009, CNT was one of only eight organizations worldwide to receive the award, which recognizes organizations that are “highly creative and effective, have made an extraordinary impact in their fields and are helping to address some of the world’s most challenging problems.”

At the award presentation, former MacArthur President Jonathan Fanton said, “The MacArthur Foundation has a long history of supporting organizations around the world like these that demonstrate the creativity, drive, and vision to make the world more just and peaceful. These organizations may be small but their impact is tremendous. From protecting human rights to improving urban neighborhoods to conserving biodiversity, they are blazing new paths and finding fresh solutions to some of our most difficult challenges.”

The award provided us the opportunity to build our capacity to respond to the growing interest in urban sustainability. It was an investment in our creative ideas and effective solutions to urban problems.  We used the award to further move the issues of energy efficiency, housing, transportation, and sustainable development to the center of national attention.

We recognized early on that neighborhood revitalization can be cost effective, while enhancing the urban and broader environment. The award enabled us to demonstrate that being resource-efficient—tapping the many assets urban neighborhoods provide—can actually lower the cost of living and increase household and community wealth. “As we look back on our growth and plan for our future, we are continually grateful for this prestigious recognition,” said Kathryn Tholin, CNT’s Chief Executive Officer. “It not only provided the financial investment in our work but also gave us national recognition in urban sustainability, helping us change the conversation about what makes cities livable and affordable for all.”