Category Archive

Introduction: From Dependency to Ownership Imagine this: a church congregation raises thousands every year to feed the hungry in their city, yet the very building they worship in is rented from a landlord who doesn’t live in the community. Or consider a neighborhood where activists tirelessly organize protests against predatory developers—yet when affordable housing is finally built, it’s funded and … Read More

Introduction For generations, the pathway to wealth creation through real estate investment has been a well-guarded secret, an exclusive club with a velvet rope reserved for the ultra-rich and accredited investors. The traditional model demanded a high entry fee—often hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars—and a complex web of connections and expertise. This created a significant barrier, a … Read More

Introduction: Are We Building Wealth or Just Giving It Away? Imagine this: a local church raises thousands in donations every year to support community programs, yet the church itself rents its building from an out-of-state landlord. The congregation’s generosity uplifts others but doesn’t create lasting ownership or wealth for the very community it serves. This is not an isolated story—it’s … Read More

As an advocate for community capital and a former board member of the National Coalition for Community Capital (NC3), I’ve spent years championing the idea that everyday people can, and should, invest in the businesses that shape their communities. It’s not just about financial returns; it’s about building local economies, fostering innovation, and truly democratizing access to capital. For too … Read More

Introduction In a world where food insecurity and economic disparities are prevalent, community organizing has become a vital tool for fostering sustainable development and empowering local communities. When I was a community organizer at the Community Farm Alliance (CFA) stands we were a beacon of hope, leveraging innovative initiatives to address these critical issues. This blog post explores my role … Read More

Introduction Crowdfunding has emerged as a powerful tool for community development, enabling local organizers and entrepreneurs to mobilize resources and drive impactful projects. One of the most notable successes in this realm is Buy the Block, a platform dedicated to empowering communities through collective real estate ownership. This blog post delves into the experiences and lessons learned from successful crowdfunding … Read More

Introduction In the quest for economic equality and community empowerment, supporting Black-owned businesses is a vital strategy. The RCI Community Fund (RCI) is at the forefront of this mission, implementing targeted initiatives that nurture and sustain Black-owned enterprises. By offering financial support, business development resources, and networking opportunities, RCI will play a crucial role in fostering a thriving ecosystem for … Read More

Introduction In the quest for sustainable community development, inclusive ownership emerges as a transformative strategy that empowers local residents and businesses. The RCI Community Fund (RCI) is at the forefront of this movement, championing models that ensure financial resources remain within the community, fostering long-term economic stability and growth. Inclusive ownership isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a powerful tool for community … Read More