Local Initiatives Support Corporation

Local Initiatives Support Corporation is a non-profit organization that supports community development projects across the United States. Founded in 1979 by the Ford Foundation and McArthur Foundation, it has worked with numerous organizations, including the United Way, Habitat for Humanity, and the National Urban League. The organization has also collaborated with government agencies such as the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of Education. Additionally, it has partnered with private companies like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and JPMorgan Chase.

● History

The Local Initiatives Support Corporation was established in 1979 with the goal of supporting community development initiatives in low-income neighborhoods. The organization's early work focused on providing financial assistance and technical support to community-based organizations in cities such as New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Over the years, it has worked with notable figures like Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama, as well as organizations like the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and the Sierra Club. The organization has also been involved in various initiatives such as the Community Reinvestment Act and the New Markets Tax Credit Program.

● Mission and Activities

The mission of the Local Initiatives Support Corporation is to support community development projects that improve the quality of life for low-income residents. The organization's activities include providing grants, loans, and technical assistance to community-based organizations and small businesses. It also works with local governments and private companies to leverage resources and expertise for community development projects. The organization has partnered with universities such as Harvard University, Stanford University, and University of California, Berkeley to conduct research and evaluation of its programs. Additionally, it has collaborated with think tanks like the Urban Institute and the Brookings Institution to inform its policy and advocacy work.

● Programs and Services

The Local Initiatives Support Corporation offers a range of programs and services to support community development initiatives. These include the Community Development Financial Institutions program, which provides financial assistance to community-based organizations, and the New Markets Tax Credit Program, which supports economic development projects in low-income communities. The organization also offers technical assistance and capacity-building programs to help community-based organizations develop their leadership and management skills. Furthermore, it has partnered with organizations like the National Community Development Association and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation of Chicago to provide training and technical assistance to community development professionals.

● Impact and Evaluation

The Local Initiatives Support Corporation has had a significant impact on community development in the United States. According to evaluations conducted by organizations such as the Urban Institute and the Center for Community Development Investments, the organization's programs have helped to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve living conditions in low-income neighborhoods. The organization has also been recognized for its work by awards such as the National Community Development Award and the Ford Foundation's Innovations in American Government Award. Additionally, it has been featured in publications like the New York Times, Washington Post, and Forbes.

● Organization and Governance

The Local Initiatives Support Corporation is governed by a board of trustees that includes leaders from the non-profit sector, private industry, and government. The organization is headed by a president and CEO, who is responsible for overseeing its programs and operations. The organization also has a national office in New York City and regional offices in cities across the United States. The organization has partnered with institutions like the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and the U.S. Department of the Treasury to inform its policy and regulatory work.

● Funding and Partnerships

The Local Initiatives Support Corporation is funded by a combination of private donations, grants, and contracts from government agencies and private companies. The organization has partnered with foundations such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Walton Family Foundation, and Kellogg Foundation to support its programs and initiatives. It has also worked with corporations like Google, Microsoft, and Coca-Cola to leverage resources and expertise for community development projects. Furthermore, it has collaborated with international organizations like the World Bank and the United Nations to support global development initiatives.

Category:Community development organizations in the United States