So we have a very large community and i'm looking to get an app made for the site - any recommendations?
It is hard to say if you are not giving details as to what app you are looking to get. Anyway, you can request one in the paid/unpaid request sections.
Custom development (freelancing) of an mobile forum app isn't too wise.. as theres tons of issues that can occur, and development costs would be higher the more complicated it gets. Just my two cents. Stick with a company that focuses on it as their core.