Community investing directs investors’ capital to poor communities and those underserved by traditional financial resources.

Organizations/Networks

National membership organization dedicated to supporting the development of strong and effective US microenterprise initiatives to assist underserved entrepreneurs.

In November 2003 this Boston-based coalition of investors and environmental groups helped launch the Investor Network on Climate Risk (INCR).

Fax: (202) 393-3034

Web: www.cdfi.org

This unified national voice of community development financial institution was formed in 1992 as an ad hoc policy development and advocacy initiative.

This is a project of the Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment and Green America (see below for both). The Center provides information about other community investing opportunities.

Turners Falls, MA 01376

The loan fund of Equity Trust is capitalized by socially motivated lenders and donors. It makes low interest loans for projects that protect the affordability and use of housing and farms.

This trade association of SRI professionals and organizations has complete information on SRI opportunities, including mutual funds and community investing, recent trends, research and updates. It maintains a sustainable investing database.

Green America

(Formerly Co-op America)

This national nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization was founded in 1982. It was Co-op America until January 1, 2009. It provides strategies for socially and environmentally responsible investing.

Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility (ICCR)

Web: www.iccr.org

Founded in 1971, this coalition of 300 faith-based institutions includes denominations, religious communities and others. The Episcopal Church’s Executive Council is a member. Members promote corporate transformation from the inside by engaging and advising management toward sustainable practice while improving their environmental and social impact. Shareholder action is frequently utilized.

Investor Responsibility Research Center, Inc. (IRRC)

1350 Connecticut Avenue NW, #700

Washington, DC 20036-1702

A source of information on corporate governance and social responsibility issues affecting investors and corporations worldwide.

National Federation of Community Development Credit Unions

116 John Street, 33rd Floor

An organization of community development credit unions that helps low and moderate income people achieve financial independence through credit unions.

National Housing Trust (NHT)

Web: www.nhtinc.org

NHT preserves affordable homes and strengthens communities through three affiliated organizations: the NHT Enterprise Preservation Corporation, the NHT Community Development Fund, and the Institute for Community Economics.

Opportunity Finance Network (OFN)

620 Chestnut Street, #572

This is a network of 170 private sector community development financial institutions (CDFIs). OFN’s CDFI locator list has information about all funds in your area, including regional and local loan funds