Local Initiatives Support Corporation
Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) has invested $29.7 billion to create affordable housing, develop community spaces, and support economic opportunities across the United States.
Company Overview
Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) has a mission to revitalize communities and bring economic opportunities to the underprivileged. The company has invested $29.7 billion into community development initiatives, creating 489,000 affordable homes and apartments, and developing 81.4 million square feet of retail, community, and educational space.
Power Forward Communities Coalition
LISC's Power Forward Communities coalition received a $2 billion grant from the EPA to support residential decarbonization. This initiative aims to save families money on utility bills, reduce emissions, and create healthier, safer, and more affordable homes. The coalition provides financing for homeowners and apartment building owners to upgrade appliances and weatherize homes, and invests in workforce development to create local, high-paying jobs.
Financial and Employment Support Programs
LISC has a network of over 130 Financial Opportunity Centers (FOC) across the country, which help tens of thousands of people find employment and improve their finances. The Bridges to Career Opportunities programs assist participants in starting and advancing along specific career pathways in growth industries. These efforts are aimed at improving the economic stability and growth potential of individuals in underserved communities.
Educational and Family Support Initiatives
LISC has provided more than $382 million in financing for charter school facilities in low-income neighborhoods. The Early Childhood Facilities program has invested $56.5 million to help plan, build, or refurbish nearly 223 early childhood facilities. Additionally, LISC's Bring Them HOMES program supports housing initiatives for persons experiencing homelessness and at-risk veterans.
Arts and Culture Initiatives
LISC's Creative Placemaking program enables residents to make social, physical, and economic changes in their neighborhoods using arts and culture. This initiative helps to improve the quality of life and foster a sense of community in various neighborhoods by promoting local artistic and cultural activities.
AmeriCorps and Internship Programs
LISC's AmeriCorps program has placed over 3,400 members in more than 102 cities nationwide. These members have been instrumental in recruiting and managing 198,091 volunteers, who have collectively served 920,000 hours in their communities. The program has also helped develop 13,569 affordable housing units and provided home ownership counseling to nearly 53,000 residents. Furthermore, LISC's HBCU Internship Program partners with Historically Black Colleges and Universities to build a diverse talent pipeline for CDFIs and offer paid professional experience to diverse undergraduate students of color.