Chris Britton Receives Rising Star Award; New Heights Nominated for Best Nonprofit
New Heights CCDA is pleased to share that Executive Director Chris Britton was recently honored with the Rising Star Award by the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber. In addition, New Heights CCDA was nominated for Best Nonprofit Organization as part of the Chamber’s annual Business Recognition Awards.
The Rising Star Award recognizes a talented professional who is emerging as a leader in their field and serves as a role model both personally and professionally. Recipients must be between the ages of 21 and 40 and demonstrate professional excellence, community involvement, and a commitment to continued leadership development.
Britton helped found New Heights Christian Community Development Association in 2007 and has served as its Executive Director since its inception. Over the years, he has helped guide the organization as it has grown into a trusted community partner serving families across Berrien County.
Under Britton’s leadership, New Heights has developed programs that address some of the most common barriers facing financially strained households, including access to reliable transportation, consistent food support, and opportunities for meaningful community connection.
Through initiatives such as New Heights Auto Ministry, the Community Food Network, and the Laundry Hub, New Heights works alongside individuals and families who are striving to build greater stability in their lives.
In 2024 alone, New Heights Auto Ministry helped more than 100 households gain or maintain employment through reliable transportation, while the Community Food Network served more than 1,700 individuals with consistent access to fresh food and supportive relationships.
Britton’s commitment to service extends beyond his role at New Heights. He currently serves on the United Way Impact Cabinet, is Vice-Chair of Mosaic CCDA, and serves as Chair of Children of Promise, while also having served on several nonprofit boards and community initiatives over the years.
“While this award was presented to me, it really reflects the work of the entire New Heights community,” said Britton. “Our staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters are the ones who make it possible to serve our neighbors and help families move from scarcity toward stability.”
Throughout his career, Britton has emphasized the importance of continuous leadership development. He regularly participates in gatherings such as the Global Leadership Summit and Christian Community Development Association conferences, learning alongside leaders from across the country who are working to strengthen their communities.
Britton often points to the values that guide his leadership—seeking justice, extending mercy, and walking humbly with others—principles drawn from the biblical passage Micah 6:8 that continue to shape the mission and culture of New Heights.
The Rising Star Award and the organization’s nomination for Best Nonprofit reflect the growing recognition of the work being done through New Heights CCDA. More importantly, they highlight the collective effort of staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners who continue to invest in the organization’s mission.
Together, those partnerships are helping individuals and families throughout Berrien County move from scarcity, to stability, to success.