This document summarizes research on the financial behaviors and needs of the Hispanic population in the United States and Lehigh Valley region of Pennsylvania. It finds that Hispanics are less likely to use formal financial services due to cultural aversions to debt, strong family support systems, and lack of trust in financial institutions. Specifically in the Lehigh Valley, Hispanic-owned businesses tend to be small with annual revenues under $200,000. The document examines how this research can help organizations like the Rising Tide Community Loan Fund better serve the local Hispanic community and business owners.
2019 State of Hispanic Wealth Report by NAHREP GREATER LAS VEGASJesse B. Lucero
The document summarizes the goals and background of the Hispanic Wealth Project, which aims to triple median Hispanic household wealth by 2024. It provides an analysis of recent economic indicators and trends related to Latino financial health. Key points include:
- Median Hispanic household wealth has increased 49.3% from 2013 to 2016, putting them slightly below the needed trajectory to meet the goal of tripling wealth by 2024.
- The wealth gap between Hispanic and white families has grown but proportionally decreased, with white households holding $8.30 for every $1 of Hispanic wealth in 2016 compared to $10.36 in 2013.
- Disparities in assets, such as home equity and investments, contribute more to the
The document discusses immigration in San Angelo, Texas. It notes that while immigrants make up 7% of the population and contribute significantly to the local economy and labor force, they often remain "invisible" due to language barriers and fears of deportation. Despite facing challenges like low wages and poverty, immigrant households rely less on public assistance than native-born households. The document calls for the community to embrace immigrant inclusion and ensure access to legal resources and integration services.
This document summarizes a forum on fair housing and fair lending hosted by the Kirwan Institute. The agenda included presentations by Kirwan on framing fair housing issues, an opportunity mapping project for King County, and training on affirmatively furthering fair housing. Background research on the subprime lending crisis was discussed, showing its disproportionate impact on communities of color and connection to historical practices like redlining. The Kirwan Institute has commissioned several research projects related to access to fair financial options, community revitalization, and programs responding to the crisis. Issues discussed included overdraft fees, remittances markets, and the impact of foreclosures on rental communities and Native American populations.
The document discusses how culture influences investment decisions. It provides examples showing that people from different cultures have varying attitudes towards risk tolerance. Surveys found that people from high corruption countries were more likely to break parking laws, and that countries differed in their preferences for maximization and regret avoidance. Individualistic cultures tend to be more risk tolerant than collectivistic cultures due to differences in downside protection. Islamic finance principles prohibit interest, require ethical investments, and forbid speculation. Financial advisors must understand a client's cultural background to provide suitable advice.
Ethnic groups have their own societal and philanthropic objectives and they are not always comparable to those of our traditional donors. Philanthropy means more than giving money. African-Americans, Asian-Americans and Hispanic-Heritage-Americans are ready to take their place as major contributors in society, but many organizations do not yet know how to effectively engage their interest. By understanding giving traditions among these emergent charitable groups you will be able to promote the most appropriate giving vehicles, know how to assess and revise your engagement strategies to welcome non-traditional donors into your donor ranks and how to use the right recognition vehicles that will empower these up-and-coming philanthropists.
Industry articles and this presentation conceived, researched, written and delivered by Katherine Swank, J.D., 2010.
The number of Hispanic entrepreneurs in the United States more than tripled between 1990 and 2012, growing from 577,000 to over 2 million. This growth significantly outpaced the increase in the Hispanic working age population and the rise in non-Hispanic self-employment. In particular, the number of Hispanic immigrant entrepreneurs quadrupled over this period, with Mexican immigrant entrepreneurs increasing by a factor of 5.4. This surge in Hispanic entrepreneurship helped lessen the economic impact of the recent recession.
This document discusses the financial status and buying power of the US Hispanic population. Some key points:
- The US Hispanic population is around 60 million but their buying power has not caught up to their size due to lower average incomes and wealth levels compared to the total US population.
- While Hispanic incomes and education levels have been rising, their average income remains below the US average and median wealth is low at around $20,700 compared to $97,300 for all US families.
- The recession hit Hispanics especially hard, wiping out a large portion of their wealth, and many have not fully recovered financially. However, rising education levels and growing numbers of high-income Hispanic households point to improving financial prospects
Rural households in Mexico frequently borrow small amounts of credit to bridge expenses between income payments like Prospera benefits. These households schedule their borrowing around the timing of Prospera payments, taking loans before payments are received and repaying promptly when funds arrive. While important for managing cash flow, this frequent borrowing likely strains household budgets. The document calls for improved specialized credit options for expenses like health costs, education, and housing to help vulnerable families better afford necessities and investments.
2019 State of Hispanic Wealth Report by NAHREP GREATER LAS VEGASJesse B. Lucero
The document summarizes the goals and background of the Hispanic Wealth Project, which aims to triple median Hispanic household wealth by 2024. It provides an analysis of recent economic indicators and trends related to Latino financial health. Key points include:
- Median Hispanic household wealth has increased 49.3% from 2013 to 2016, putting them slightly below the needed trajectory to meet the goal of tripling wealth by 2024.
- The wealth gap between Hispanic and white families has grown but proportionally decreased, with white households holding $8.30 for every $1 of Hispanic wealth in 2016 compared to $10.36 in 2013.
- Disparities in assets, such as home equity and investments, contribute more to the
The document discusses immigration in San Angelo, Texas. It notes that while immigrants make up 7% of the population and contribute significantly to the local economy and labor force, they often remain "invisible" due to language barriers and fears of deportation. Despite facing challenges like low wages and poverty, immigrant households rely less on public assistance than native-born households. The document calls for the community to embrace immigrant inclusion and ensure access to legal resources and integration services.
This document summarizes a forum on fair housing and fair lending hosted by the Kirwan Institute. The agenda included presentations by Kirwan on framing fair housing issues, an opportunity mapping project for King County, and training on affirmatively furthering fair housing. Background research on the subprime lending crisis was discussed, showing its disproportionate impact on communities of color and connection to historical practices like redlining. The Kirwan Institute has commissioned several research projects related to access to fair financial options, community revitalization, and programs responding to the crisis. Issues discussed included overdraft fees, remittances markets, and the impact of foreclosures on rental communities and Native American populations.
The document discusses how culture influences investment decisions. It provides examples showing that people from different cultures have varying attitudes towards risk tolerance. Surveys found that people from high corruption countries were more likely to break parking laws, and that countries differed in their preferences for maximization and regret avoidance. Individualistic cultures tend to be more risk tolerant than collectivistic cultures due to differences in downside protection. Islamic finance principles prohibit interest, require ethical investments, and forbid speculation. Financial advisors must understand a client's cultural background to provide suitable advice.
Ethnic groups have their own societal and philanthropic objectives and they are not always comparable to those of our traditional donors. Philanthropy means more than giving money. African-Americans, Asian-Americans and Hispanic-Heritage-Americans are ready to take their place as major contributors in society, but many organizations do not yet know how to effectively engage their interest. By understanding giving traditions among these emergent charitable groups you will be able to promote the most appropriate giving vehicles, know how to assess and revise your engagement strategies to welcome non-traditional donors into your donor ranks and how to use the right recognition vehicles that will empower these up-and-coming philanthropists.
Industry articles and this presentation conceived, researched, written and delivered by Katherine Swank, J.D., 2010.
The number of Hispanic entrepreneurs in the United States more than tripled between 1990 and 2012, growing from 577,000 to over 2 million. This growth significantly outpaced the increase in the Hispanic working age population and the rise in non-Hispanic self-employment. In particular, the number of Hispanic immigrant entrepreneurs quadrupled over this period, with Mexican immigrant entrepreneurs increasing by a factor of 5.4. This surge in Hispanic entrepreneurship helped lessen the economic impact of the recent recession.
This document discusses the financial status and buying power of the US Hispanic population. Some key points:
- The US Hispanic population is around 60 million but their buying power has not caught up to their size due to lower average incomes and wealth levels compared to the total US population.
- While Hispanic incomes and education levels have been rising, their average income remains below the US average and median wealth is low at around $20,700 compared to $97,300 for all US families.
- The recession hit Hispanics especially hard, wiping out a large portion of their wealth, and many have not fully recovered financially. However, rising education levels and growing numbers of high-income Hispanic households point to improving financial prospects
Rural households in Mexico frequently borrow small amounts of credit to bridge expenses between income payments like Prospera benefits. These households schedule their borrowing around the timing of Prospera payments, taking loans before payments are received and repaying promptly when funds arrive. While important for managing cash flow, this frequent borrowing likely strains household budgets. The document calls for improved specialized credit options for expenses like health costs, education, and housing to help vulnerable families better afford necessities and investments.
This document discusses advocacy for minority contractors and economic development. It aims to eliminate barriers preventing growth of African American and minority owned businesses. It outlines economic benefits of building wealth for minorities such as higher paying jobs. However, minority businesses face challenges like lack of access to capital and contracting opportunities. The document proposes strategic goals and legislation to improve small business participation in state contracting and establish accountability for minority business utilization.
This document discusses corruption, governance, and political instability as metaphors for underdevelopment in Nigeria. It argues that since independence in 1960, Nigeria has struggled with high-level corruption among political leaders, weak governance, and political instability. This has led to a legitimacy crisis for the government as citizens lose faith in their leaders. Corruption has been institutionalized and individual wealth accumulation by political elites contrasts with widespread poverty in the country. As a result, national development is hindered and the political environment remains uncertain.
Chris Roush presents "Investigating Nonprofits" in Minneapolis on Oct. 4, 2011 at the Star Tribune during the Reynolds Center's free workshop, "Business Journalism Boot Camp."
For more information about training for business journalists, please visit businessjournalism.org.
United Way\'s Center for Nonprofits created a presentation about upcoming trends in 2011 for which nonprofits need to be on the lookout. These trends can dramatically affect an organization\'s funding and business practices. All information contained in this report was based on research that includes sources such as the Pew Report, the Nonprofit Times, and the Journal for Nonprofits.
The 2011 HMDA report analyzes home mortgage lending data from 2007-2009 in the Charleston MSA. It finds that during this period, home loan originations for black and other minority applicants averaged only 9% and 5% of total loans respectively. Black applicants faced higher denial rates primarily due to credit history issues. The report recommends increasing financial education programs and public awareness campaigns to boost minority homeownership rates in the Charleston area.
The document discusses restricting immigrant access to welfare programs in the United States. It makes three key points:
1) Most economists agree that immigration increases the size of the economy and productivity, and benefits both destination and source countries. Restricting immigrant welfare access would further improve the fiscal impact of immigration.
2) Data shows that non-citizens currently use around 6.7% of total welfare expenditures while making up 7.1% of the population. Limiting their access to programs like Medicaid, SNAP and SSI would have a small positive fiscal effect.
3) Cutting off welfare benefits to non-citizens would affect some immigrants but not as many as expected, since immigrant welfare use is already
Brazilians exemplify a migrant group that is well connected through transnational ties. These activities by migrant groups are important to highlight, as they have potential development impacts in both the migrants’ home and host countries. This paper looks at the characteristics of Brazilian migrants in the United States and their participation in transnational activities using data from a study of Brazilians living in Massachusetts conducted in 2007.
The document discusses the needs of a state in order to function properly and avoid failure. It argues that the most important needs are:
1. Firm laws and regulations to protect citizens and enable proper functioning.
2. Proper governance from the government to lead the country in the right direction and diminish corruption.
3. Accountability and transparency to eliminate issues like nepotism and ensure proper budget oversight.
4. A charismatic leader with a vision to enact positive change and plans based on agreements. Other needs include managing public funds, limiting unnecessary borrowing, and creating opportunities for citizens. Meeting these needs helps states to be sovereign and avoid relying on external support.
The document provides background information on the client, Home Matters America, and its goal of ensuring all Americans have access to safe, nurturing housing and community services. It then discusses the campaign team from the University of Nevada, Reno and their goal of establishing a local presence for Home Matters in Reno. Through research, the team identified their target audiences of millennials, young mothers, baby boomers, and potential local supporters. They developed key messages about how Home Matters builds character and community. The team implemented tactics like Dream Doors, Dream Drives, a website, and meetings to engage these audiences and ignite interest in the Home Matters movement in Reno.
This report provides an analysis of donor-advised funds in 2013 based on data from 1,012 charitable sponsors. It found that grants from donor-advised funds reached nearly $10 billion, contributions exceeded $17 billion, and charitable assets grew to over $53 billion - all record highs. The growth rates of grants, contributions, and assets were in the double digits. The average size of donor-advised fund accounts and total number of accounts also increased from the previous year. Donor-advised funds continue to be an increasingly popular charitable giving vehicle.
Economic Justice in Maryland and Howard CountyKali Schumitz
The document discusses economic justice issues in Maryland and Howard County. It provides data showing that Maryland has high income inequality, with more millionaires per capita than any other state, while some parts of Howard County have poverty rates approaching 20%. It also discusses threats from federal policies, such as potential cuts to programs that support health care, education, human services and more. The document argues for policies like increasing the minimum wage, expanding paid sick leave, and reforming the tax system and business regulations to promote a more equitable economy.
This document discusses Salvadoran immigration and transnationalism between El Salvador and Los Angeles. It notes that Salvadorians face exploitation through low wages, harsh working conditions, and high costs for financial services due to lack of access to banking. This creates a "vicious cycle" of poverty. The document discusses policies around legalization versus deportation, arguing legalization would boost the economy while deportation would significantly reduce GDP. It proposes using new technologies to empower diaspora communities and break the cycle through increased access to low-cost financial services.
This chapter discusses several key issues related to race and ethnicity in the changing American context. It outlines 3 important issues: 1) the changing ethnic configuration due to new immigration patterns, 2) the debate around cultural assimilation versus pluralism, and 3) the continued socioeconomic gap between white/Asian groups and black/Hispanic/Native American groups. Specific topics covered include the economic and social impacts of new immigration, challenges facing Arab Americans, debates around affirmative action and bilingualism, and perspectives on the future of race relations in the US.
Between 2002 and 2011, developing countries lost nearly $6 billion due to illicit financial flows according to Global Financial Integrity. Honduras is particularly affected, with an estimated $31.5 billion lost over the same period, amounting to 20% of its GDP. This money lost to activities like money laundering, trade misinvoicing, and tax evasion has severely impacted Honduras' ability to provide public services and invest in development, keeping many citizens in poverty. While Honduras and international organizations have made some efforts to reduce illicit financial flows through new laws and enforcement, corruption continues to enable criminal networks and strip the country of critical resources.
“Of all forms of tyranny, the least attractive and the most vulgar
is the tyranny of mere wealth, the tyranny of a plutocracy.”
Theodore Roosevelt, 1913.
This document discusses a program called "Prep My CDFI!" which is designed to help Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) prepare for and strengthen their CARSTM rating. CARSTM is an independent rating system that assesses a CDFI's impact performance and financial strength. Prep My CDFI! provides an assessment, management report, and support to help CDFIs improve documentation, operations, and outcomes tracking in order to obtain a higher CARSTM rating. The program costs a minimum of $5,000 but can include additional services and support.
CDFIs: Outcomes, Impact & How to Track ThemiiCredit
Introducing a framework for Community Development Financial Institutions to discover and calculate Social Return on Investment (SROI). Connect program outcomes to societal contributions and savings.
This document discusses reimagining business development services (BDS), also known as technical assistance (TA), provided by CDFIs to their small business loan clients. It argues that BDS should be viewed as a discrete product or strategy to support portfolio performance and mission. The document provides examples of how BDS can be improved by establishing clear goals, metrics, engagement strategies and funding models. It also presents a case study of how one CDFI, Working Solutions, redesigned their BDS program through improved processes, staff roles and impact tracking.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS: Considerations for Securitizati...Mark J. Feldman
The document discusses the history and future of the Basel Accords, international standards for bank capital adequacy developed by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision. Basel II aimed to make capital requirements more risk-sensitive and introduce greater market discipline. While criticisms remain, its approach of three pillars (minimum capital, supervision, and disclosure) has strengthened risk management. Future work includes monitoring Basel II implementation, addressing new risks, and strengthening market discipline by having banks issue debt and commit to capital estimates.
This document discusses advocacy for minority contractors and economic development. It aims to eliminate barriers preventing growth of African American and minority owned businesses. It outlines economic benefits of building wealth for minorities such as higher paying jobs. However, minority businesses face challenges like lack of access to capital and contracting opportunities. The document proposes strategic goals and legislation to improve small business participation in state contracting and establish accountability for minority business utilization.
This document discusses corruption, governance, and political instability as metaphors for underdevelopment in Nigeria. It argues that since independence in 1960, Nigeria has struggled with high-level corruption among political leaders, weak governance, and political instability. This has led to a legitimacy crisis for the government as citizens lose faith in their leaders. Corruption has been institutionalized and individual wealth accumulation by political elites contrasts with widespread poverty in the country. As a result, national development is hindered and the political environment remains uncertain.
Chris Roush presents "Investigating Nonprofits" in Minneapolis on Oct. 4, 2011 at the Star Tribune during the Reynolds Center's free workshop, "Business Journalism Boot Camp."
For more information about training for business journalists, please visit businessjournalism.org.
United Way\'s Center for Nonprofits created a presentation about upcoming trends in 2011 for which nonprofits need to be on the lookout. These trends can dramatically affect an organization\'s funding and business practices. All information contained in this report was based on research that includes sources such as the Pew Report, the Nonprofit Times, and the Journal for Nonprofits.
The 2011 HMDA report analyzes home mortgage lending data from 2007-2009 in the Charleston MSA. It finds that during this period, home loan originations for black and other minority applicants averaged only 9% and 5% of total loans respectively. Black applicants faced higher denial rates primarily due to credit history issues. The report recommends increasing financial education programs and public awareness campaigns to boost minority homeownership rates in the Charleston area.
The document discusses restricting immigrant access to welfare programs in the United States. It makes three key points:
1) Most economists agree that immigration increases the size of the economy and productivity, and benefits both destination and source countries. Restricting immigrant welfare access would further improve the fiscal impact of immigration.
2) Data shows that non-citizens currently use around 6.7% of total welfare expenditures while making up 7.1% of the population. Limiting their access to programs like Medicaid, SNAP and SSI would have a small positive fiscal effect.
3) Cutting off welfare benefits to non-citizens would affect some immigrants but not as many as expected, since immigrant welfare use is already
Brazilians exemplify a migrant group that is well connected through transnational ties. These activities by migrant groups are important to highlight, as they have potential development impacts in both the migrants’ home and host countries. This paper looks at the characteristics of Brazilian migrants in the United States and their participation in transnational activities using data from a study of Brazilians living in Massachusetts conducted in 2007.
The document discusses the needs of a state in order to function properly and avoid failure. It argues that the most important needs are:
1. Firm laws and regulations to protect citizens and enable proper functioning.
2. Proper governance from the government to lead the country in the right direction and diminish corruption.
3. Accountability and transparency to eliminate issues like nepotism and ensure proper budget oversight.
4. A charismatic leader with a vision to enact positive change and plans based on agreements. Other needs include managing public funds, limiting unnecessary borrowing, and creating opportunities for citizens. Meeting these needs helps states to be sovereign and avoid relying on external support.
The document provides background information on the client, Home Matters America, and its goal of ensuring all Americans have access to safe, nurturing housing and community services. It then discusses the campaign team from the University of Nevada, Reno and their goal of establishing a local presence for Home Matters in Reno. Through research, the team identified their target audiences of millennials, young mothers, baby boomers, and potential local supporters. They developed key messages about how Home Matters builds character and community. The team implemented tactics like Dream Doors, Dream Drives, a website, and meetings to engage these audiences and ignite interest in the Home Matters movement in Reno.
This report provides an analysis of donor-advised funds in 2013 based on data from 1,012 charitable sponsors. It found that grants from donor-advised funds reached nearly $10 billion, contributions exceeded $17 billion, and charitable assets grew to over $53 billion - all record highs. The growth rates of grants, contributions, and assets were in the double digits. The average size of donor-advised fund accounts and total number of accounts also increased from the previous year. Donor-advised funds continue to be an increasingly popular charitable giving vehicle.
Economic Justice in Maryland and Howard CountyKali Schumitz
The document discusses economic justice issues in Maryland and Howard County. It provides data showing that Maryland has high income inequality, with more millionaires per capita than any other state, while some parts of Howard County have poverty rates approaching 20%. It also discusses threats from federal policies, such as potential cuts to programs that support health care, education, human services and more. The document argues for policies like increasing the minimum wage, expanding paid sick leave, and reforming the tax system and business regulations to promote a more equitable economy.
This document discusses Salvadoran immigration and transnationalism between El Salvador and Los Angeles. It notes that Salvadorians face exploitation through low wages, harsh working conditions, and high costs for financial services due to lack of access to banking. This creates a "vicious cycle" of poverty. The document discusses policies around legalization versus deportation, arguing legalization would boost the economy while deportation would significantly reduce GDP. It proposes using new technologies to empower diaspora communities and break the cycle through increased access to low-cost financial services.
This chapter discusses several key issues related to race and ethnicity in the changing American context. It outlines 3 important issues: 1) the changing ethnic configuration due to new immigration patterns, 2) the debate around cultural assimilation versus pluralism, and 3) the continued socioeconomic gap between white/Asian groups and black/Hispanic/Native American groups. Specific topics covered include the economic and social impacts of new immigration, challenges facing Arab Americans, debates around affirmative action and bilingualism, and perspectives on the future of race relations in the US.
Between 2002 and 2011, developing countries lost nearly $6 billion due to illicit financial flows according to Global Financial Integrity. Honduras is particularly affected, with an estimated $31.5 billion lost over the same period, amounting to 20% of its GDP. This money lost to activities like money laundering, trade misinvoicing, and tax evasion has severely impacted Honduras' ability to provide public services and invest in development, keeping many citizens in poverty. While Honduras and international organizations have made some efforts to reduce illicit financial flows through new laws and enforcement, corruption continues to enable criminal networks and strip the country of critical resources.
“Of all forms of tyranny, the least attractive and the most vulgar
is the tyranny of mere wealth, the tyranny of a plutocracy.”
Theodore Roosevelt, 1913.
This document discusses a program called "Prep My CDFI!" which is designed to help Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) prepare for and strengthen their CARSTM rating. CARSTM is an independent rating system that assesses a CDFI's impact performance and financial strength. Prep My CDFI! provides an assessment, management report, and support to help CDFIs improve documentation, operations, and outcomes tracking in order to obtain a higher CARSTM rating. The program costs a minimum of $5,000 but can include additional services and support.
CDFIs: Outcomes, Impact & How to Track ThemiiCredit
Introducing a framework for Community Development Financial Institutions to discover and calculate Social Return on Investment (SROI). Connect program outcomes to societal contributions and savings.
This document discusses reimagining business development services (BDS), also known as technical assistance (TA), provided by CDFIs to their small business loan clients. It argues that BDS should be viewed as a discrete product or strategy to support portfolio performance and mission. The document provides examples of how BDS can be improved by establishing clear goals, metrics, engagement strategies and funding models. It also presents a case study of how one CDFI, Working Solutions, redesigned their BDS program through improved processes, staff roles and impact tracking.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS: Considerations for Securitizati...Mark J. Feldman
The document discusses the history and future of the Basel Accords, international standards for bank capital adequacy developed by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision. Basel II aimed to make capital requirements more risk-sensitive and introduce greater market discipline. While criticisms remain, its approach of three pillars (minimum capital, supervision, and disclosure) has strengthened risk management. Future work includes monitoring Basel II implementation, addressing new risks, and strengthening market discipline by having banks issue debt and commit to capital estimates.
CDFIs Stepping Into the Breach: An Impact Evaluation Summary Reportnc_initiative
This report summarizes research undertaken by the Carsey School of Public Policy to evaluate impacts of the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund on CDFIs and of the CDFI industry on the people and communities it serves.
Introduction to Risk and Efficiency among CDFIs: A Statistical Evaluation usi...nc_initiative
This introductory essay provides general background information on the institutional differences between regulated CDFIs and mainstream financial institutions.
2018 State of Hispanic Wealth Report by NAHREP Greater Las Vegas Jesse B. Lucero
The Hispanic Wealth Project was established in 2012 with a goal to triple Hispanic household wealth by 2024. It focuses on increasing wealth through homeownership, entrepreneurship, and savings/investment. In 2018, the HWP saw increases in Hispanic homeownership rates and small business growth, but savings/investment remains an opportunity for improvement. The report provides strategies and partnerships to continue progressing toward the goal.
The Hispanic Opportunity, Integrating Latinos into the U.S. Banking and Finan...The Hispanic Way
Many businesses are not sufficiently capitalizing on the Hispanic market, in part because of failed or ineffective outreach initiatives. For these efforts to be successful, organizations require a strategy that takes into account deep understanding of Hispanic family dynamics, cultural nuances, and language barriers. Financial institutions would draw a competitive advantage by developing cultural competencies that directly relate to the particularities of the Hispanic community. With this article, I will help you grow cultural awareness and also understand some actions that can be taken to better connect with this segment.
This document provides background context on the challenges facing older Latino adults in the United States. It discusses demographic trends showing Latinos are the fastest growing aging population. However, older Latinos face significant economic vulnerabilities due to lifetime wage disparities and lower rates of qualifying for retirement income and health insurance compared to other groups. The document outlines gaps in Social Security benefits for Latinos and their higher poverty rates in retirement. It presents data on the gender wage gap negatively impacting Latinas.
Hispanic (Latino) Market in the U.S.A.: Generational View, 7th Edition, TheMarketResearch.com
The document is a report on the Hispanic (Latino) market in the United States from a generational perspective. Some of the key findings are:
- As of 2007, Hispanics accounted for half of total U.S. population growth and their population and buying power are projected to continue growing significantly in the coming decades.
- There are nearly uniform differences in consumer attitudes and behaviors between Hispanic and non-Hispanic consumers across all age groups, suggesting strong cultural ties continue to differentiate Hispanics regardless of age or acculturation level.
- Younger Hispanic generations like Gen X and Gen Y represent the largest segments and offer many opportunities for marketers across various industries due to their growing populations
This document summarizes a report by the California Reinvestment Coalition about the financial divide between lower-income communities and wealthier neighborhoods in California. It finds that lower-income neighborhoods have many check cashers and payday lenders charging high fees, while having few bank branches, due to banks removing branches from these communities. It also finds that mainstream banks provide significant financing to check cashers and payday lenders, profiting from these high-cost lenders while not providing affordable services to these communities themselves. Overall, it estimates that high fees from check cashers and payday lenders cost California residents over $5 billion per year.
The Latino Report Card provides a portrait of Latinos in Silicon Valley based on data across five quality of life areas: education, health, financial stability, housing, and environmental sustainability. Grades were assigned to 25 indicators to reflect the well-being of Latinos as well as gaps compared to non-Latinos. The report finds that while some areas show progress, such as kindergarten readiness and health insurance for children, overall Latinos receive many D's and F's due to large disparities, including lower rates of college readiness, higher dropout rates, lower incomes, and less access to affordable housing and healthcare. The report aims to inspire action to improve outcomes and close gaps so that Latinos, who will be the largest
This document discusses Hispanic philanthropy and leadership in Austin, Texas. Some key points:
- Hispanics make up 35% of Austin's population and own over 14,000 of the city's 34,000 businesses.
- Hispanic families in Austin have higher median incomes than Hispanic families in other cities. However, Hispanics still lag behind in areas like education, health, employment, and civic participation.
- Hispanic giving and volunteerism is growing but less than 7% of foundation funding targets Hispanics. Building trust and authentic community engagement are important to increasing Hispanic philanthropy and leadership.
This document provides an overview of the growing influence and contributions of Latinos in America. Some of the key points include:
- By 2050, Latinos will make up 30% of the US population.
- Latinos are strengthening the US economy through jobs, entrepreneurship, and spending power totaling $1.5 trillion.
- In education, Latinos now represent 24% of all public school students and are on track to earn more degrees in the future.
- Latinos are also increasingly influential in public service through voting, military service, and holding more political offices.
This document discusses trends in the Hispanic consumer market in the United States. It finds that the Hispanic population, especially younger cohorts, is growing rapidly and influencing American culture. Hispanics now make up 16% of the US population and control 10% of discretionary spending. The markets seeing the largest growth in Hispanic populations are spread across the country. Hispanic consumers tend to be more optimistic about their financial future compared to non-Hispanics. While language preferences vary by generation, three-quarters of Hispanic adults prefer to speak at least some Spanish. Advertising in Spanish resonates even with many English-dominant Hispanics. Technology and retail websites visited by Spanish-speaking consumers reflect this demographic's influence.
The document discusses fraud risks faced by non-profit organizations, noting that fraud accounts for estimated losses of $40 billion annually in the non-profit sector. It outlines common types of fraud such as skimming donations, creating fraudulent tax losses, and overstating expenses. The document also provides recommendations for non-profits to implement controls to prevent fraud, such as requiring two signatures on checks and having bank statements sent directly to someone other than the treasurer.
The document discusses the growing Hispanic population and market in the United States. Some key points include:
- The Hispanic population in the US grew 46% in the last decade and makes up over 50 million people.
- Hispanics have a buying power of $1.3 trillion in 2013 that is growing rapidly.
- Areas outside traditional Hispanic population centers like Miami are seeing the fastest growth, such as Charlotte, NC.
- Reaching the Hispanic market requires investing in research, developing culturally relevant products and services, and establishing a bilingual customer service infrastructure.
The document discusses issues of racial inequality and opportunity in Detroit and beyond. It argues that while some see Obama's election as signifying a post-racial era, racial disparities persist and disadvantage marginalized groups. Specifically, foreclosures have disproportionately impacted black and Latino communities. The document calls for a focus on targeted universalism, coalition building, and empowering community organizations like MOSES to promote social justice and equal opportunity.
What Top-Tier Industries Are Telling Us About Building Relationships Through Social Media, Mobile Solutions, Big Data, Interactive Technology and Online Marketing.
U.S. Hispanic women, also known as Latinas, have recently and rapidly surfaced
as prominent contributors to the educational, economic, and cultural wellbeing of not only their own ethnicity, but of American society and the consumer marketplace. This rise of Latinas is driven both by strong demographics and a healthy inclination to embrace and retain their Hispanic culture even as they make significant strides toward success in mainstream America.
Latinas are becoming increasingly influential contributors to the US economy and society. They are outpacing Latino males in education and career advancement. As the primary decision makers in their households, Latinas control over $1.2 trillion in annual spending. Many Latinas embrace both American and Hispanic cultures, seeking an ambicultural identity. They are adapting to new technologies and using social media to stay connected to their communities both in the US and their countries of origin.
The african-american audience has increasingly changed with being much more affluent, Educated and Diverse. Read out more about the African-American Consumers and their purchasing power in this document.
2. Wilkins2
Introduction
The Rising Tide Community Loan Fund, located in Bethlehem, PA, is a 501 (c) (3)
Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that exists “to meet a need in the
community for accessible financing options to business owners whose risk factors make it
difficult to obtain funds from traditional lenders.” This organization serves prospective, start-
up, and established businesses in five Lehigh Valley counties by providing a full range of one-to-
one business counseling services and microloans to business owners where resources and
opportunities for growth are limited (Rising Tide).
In recent years, The Rising Tide’s client base has reflected the demographic distribution
of the Lehigh Valley in all but one area; though lending has been proportional among white and
African-American borrowers, The Rising Tide has been unable to attract Hispanic clients to their
programs. Considering that Hispanics make up twenty percent of the population in the Lehigh
Valley, it is important to understand if they are being underserved and how they could be
better served by The Rising Tide Community Loan Fund and organizations like it (Landauer).
Hispanics in the United States use
financial services differently than the
general population, and research shows
that small business owners in the Hispanic community are less likely to use formal financial
services than other demographic groups. The Rising Tide can draw from practices used by CDFIs
both in Pennsylvania and across the country to better serve the Hispanic community in the
Lehigh Valley.
3. Wilkins3
Hispanic Americans & Financial Services
The first step in investigating The Rising Tide’s lack of engagement with the Hispanic
community is understanding how Hispanics use financial services overall. In the United States
the Hispanic population numbered fifty-five million in 2014, and Hispanics are the fastest
growing population group in the country, expected to grow 167% between 2010 and 2050
(“The Hispanic American Financial Experience”). In general, the Hispanic community is young
and family-oriented, and their financial needs are shaped by strong multigenerational
relationships, cultural attitudes surrounding debt, and lack of trust in and access to financial
service providers. These factors impact the needs of Hispanic business owners and their use of
financial services in several ways.
In the U.S. Hispanic households have a median income of $40,963 and make up 28
percent of impoverished households in the U.S. The financial condition of Hispanics is impacted
by the cultural norm of a close-knit family structure; over 67 percent of Hispanics surveyed in
2013 supported at least one other person, including children, parents, and extended family
both within the U.S. and abroad. 42 percent of
Hispanics born outside of the U.S. send
remittances averaging six-hundred dollars a year to
support family living in Latin America. On the
surface, the data would point to lower rates of
saving among Hispanics (“Hispanic”). However, if
“savings” was defined as “deferred consumption”
Total Assets (in Thousands)
4. Wilkins4
and included remittances and care for dependents, the Hispanic population saves differently
than the general population, but at a similar rate (Kamasaki 3).
Another theme affecting the use of financial services among Hispanics is a deep cultural
aversion to personal debt. Over sixty percent of Hispanics believe there is no such thing as
“good debt,” but the majority also believe that it is acceptable to use credit for big purchases
like buying a home, starting a business, and going to college (“Hispanic”). This data reveals that,
in the Hispanic community, the necessary reality of personal debt is juxtaposed with a negative
cultural stigma surrounding indebtedness. Congruently, Hispanic net worth is well below that of
the general population. Hispanic households with an annual income of $25,000 or more hold an
average of $33,000 in total financial assets compared to an average of $97,000 in the general
population. This data reveals that
Hispanics are using less financial
services of all kinds, including
both savings and credit. The
Hispanic population is generally more risk adverse than other Americans, and they seek to save
more for short-term goals like reducing debt, purchasing a home, or creating an emergency
savings account. These tendencies, coupled with the fact that Hispanics are less aware of how
“good debt” can be used to achieve long-term financial goals, reveal a need for trustworthy
financial advising (Kamasaki 4).
Part of the reason that the lack of understanding of “good debt” exists is the lack of
access to and trust of financial service providers and advisors within the Hispanic community.
Hispanics rank family and friends as the most important sources of information for financial
“THIS DATA REVEALS THAT, IN THE HISPANIC
COMMUNITY, THE NECESSARY REALITY OF
PERSONAL DEBT IS JUXTAPOSED WITH A
NEGATIVE CULTURAL STIGMA SURROUNDING
INDEBTEDNESS.”
5. Wilkins5
decision-making and professional financial advisors as the least important. Many would assume
that language is a barrier in Hispanic access to professional financial advising; however, only
seven percent of Hispanics stated language as a key component in seeking financial advice. The
lack of use of formal financial service advisors (banks, credit unions, financial advisors) is
instead a result of lack of trust, lack of understanding of financial products, and a lack of
knowledge of where to go for sound financial information (“Hispanic”). This data reveals an
opportunity for financial service providers to meet the needs of the Hispanic community, and
Hispanics have a strong desire for financial
advisors that are a part of their local
communities. Hispanics “are half as likely to
be contacted by financial advisors”
compared to the general population, but
they are just as likely as the general
population to use financial advising services
when contacted (“Hispanic”).
This data reveals several unique characteristics about the Hispanic community in the
United States that are important for financial service providers to be aware of when serving this
population. First, an understanding of cultural beliefs and practices surrounding debt in the
Hispanic community is especially important for organizations like The Rising Tide, which offers
affordable credit products to business-owners and entrepreneurs. This aversion to debt within
the Hispanic community is often rooted in a lack of understanding of how to use credit to
achieve financial goals and lack of trust in financial service providers. It would be essential for
6. Wilkins6
any CDFI trying to attract Hispanic clients to gain the trust of this community and be able to
communicate effectively about the usefulness of financial products like business loans.
Hispanic-Owned Businesses in the Lehigh Valley
The Hispanic population in the Lehigh Valley grew at a rate of twelve percent between
2012 and 2015, and today make up one-fifth of the total population (Landauer). Hispanic-
owned businesses in the United States numbered over four million in 2015, and revenues for
these businesses reached $660 billion in the same year (Rosenberg). In the Lehigh Valley,
Hispanic-owned businesses reflect the profile of American businesses in general—“most are
small with annual revenues under $200,000 and employ a handful of employees” (Parker 9).
The Center for Community and Organizational Research at Penn State Lehigh Valley conducted
a study in 2008 that examined Hispanic business owners and professionals in the region,
exploring several key trends of small business ownership in this community. It presents several
conclusions that are valuable to community development financial institutions in the Lehigh
Valley that aim to serve this population well.
Hispanics business ownership in the Lehigh Valley exists in a wide range of industries,
including manufacturing, warehousing, transportation, construction, retail, business services,
and food services. As of 2008, seventy-five percent of Hispanic-owned businesses in the Valley
were owned by men, and the majority were structured as a sole proprietorship (Parker 12).
Downtown Allentown and South Bethlehem had the highest percentage of Hispanic business
owners, who accounted for thirty percent of all small business owners in these two areas.
Southside Bethlehem and downtown Allentown also have a high percentage of Hispanic
residents, who are disproportionally affected by high poverty rates, crime, and failing schools in
7. Wilkins7
their neighborhoods. Urban revitalization efforts on the Southside and downtown Allentown
have positively impacted Hispanic business owners, who in turn often give back to their
communities both financially and by volunteering their time (Parker 11).
Most Hispanic-owned businesses in the Lehigh Valley surveyed in this study got their
start between 1998 and 2008, and the median annual business revenue ranged between
$50,000 to $100,000. This data is gendered—thirty-seven percent of Hispanic men reported
revenues over $200,000, while only twenty-five percent of Hispanic women reported the same
amount (Parker 13). Hispanics in the Lehigh Valley choose small business ownership for a
variety of reasons, but the majority reported that they are
in business because it provides them “the best means for
achieving their goals in the U.S. economy.” These goals are
centered on achieving a middle class standard of living and
providing educational opportunities for their children
(Parker 15).
This study presents a useful picture of Hispanic business owners’ past capital
expenditures and their plans for future expenditures. Sixty-
seven percent of Hispanic-owned businesses in the Lehigh
Valley “made capital expenditures to improve their
businesses” between the years 2004 to 2008, with a median
amount of $40,000 (Parker 17). When this study was
published, almost three-quarters of Hispanic business
owners planned to make capital expenditures in the next
8. Wilkins8
five years (2008 to 2013), with a median planned expenditure of $25,000 and a mean
expenditure of $159,000. This data, like that of business revenue, is also gendered—seventy
percent of Hispanic men made capital investments in the past five years compared to sixty
percent of Hispanic women, and seventy-five percent of men planned to make capital
expenditures in the next five years, compared to sixty-two percent of women (Parker 18). More
than ninety percent of these capital expenditures were spent in the Lehigh Valley.
In reference to their plans for future capital expenditures, the majority of Hispanic
business owners reported that they would need to borrow money to accomplish these goals.
Most reported knowing how to go about borrowing money, though a lesser amount of female
business owners reported knowing how to navigate borrowing money than men (Parker 19). In
starting their existing businesses, most Hispanics used a combination of both loans and savings;
fifty percent relied on loans, and
seventy percent used savings.
These loans came from a variety
of sources, with only twenty-five
percent using loans from a formal
source (a bank or other financial institution). Other sources included personal loans to business
credit cards, friends and family, home equity loans, and small business administration loans.
Hispanic women used their networks of family and friends for loans at a much greater
rate than Hispanic men—forty-seven percent of women borrowed money from friends and
family compared to twenty percent of men. This study also found that the demand for formal
lending services among Hispanics in the Lehigh Valley would increase. Sixty-seven percent of
9. Wilkins9
business owners planned to rely on banks for future capital expenditures, compared to twenty-
five percent who used formal financial institutions for start-up funding. Hispanics also planned
to decrease their reliance on credit cards and social networks for sources of funding in the
future (Parker 21).
The data reveals that Hispanic business owners have a generally positive relationship
with formal financial institutions in the Lehigh Valley. About half of the business owners
surveyed had applied for a bank loan between 2004 and 2008, and seventy-one percent were
approved. Those who were rejected by banks reported “objective factors (rather than personal
ones) such as bad credit history as reasons for being rejected” (Parker 22). Again, there is a
significant difference between the experience of Hispanic men and Hispanic women when it
comes to formal lending. Less than a quarter of Hispanic female
business owners have applied for a loan in the past five years,
compared to fifty-five percent of Hispanic males. Of the women
who did apply for a loan, only half were accepted; in contrast,
nearly three-quarters of Hispanic men who applied for bank loans
were accepted (Parker 22).
Hispanic business owners are fairly well connected in the Lehigh Valley, with eighty
percent reporting access to networking opportunities with both Hispanic and non-Hispanic
business owners. The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of the Lehigh Valley is one of the
avenues that exist for networking, and it includes both professionals and small business owners
from many industries across the region. The Hispanic Chamber counts over three-hundred
businesses as members, many of whom attend networking events and business workshops that
10. Wilkins10
connect them to other business owners in the Lehigh Valley (Cartageña). The Chamber is
currently working to expand its membership to microenterprises like neighborhood bodegas
and mechanic shops through door-to-door marketing efforts in downtown Allentown.
Several prominent members of the Hispanic Chamber emphasize the value of
relationship that is unique among Hispanic business owners and believe that relationship and
business within the Hispanic culture are intricately connected. Tony Ortiz, a member of the
Hispanic Chamber and producer of Nuestro Valle, a public television program in the Lehigh
Valley, emphasized trust as a key factor when operating in the Hispanic business community.
“First, you sit down and eat a meal. Once I (the business owner) know who you are, about your
family and your life, only then will I feel comfortable doing business with you” (Ortiz). Samantha
Cartageña, the coordinator for the Hispanic Chamber, explains it similarly—“Hispanics are
passionate people, and their businesses are their life’s work. They want to know that the
people they do business with are trustworthy,” and in Hispanic culture, that means knowing
their family, their work, where they go to church, etc.
In Spanish, there are two verbs used for the English verb to know. The verb saber is used
in the context of knowing facts, information, and data. The verb conocer is used in the context
of knowing a person or place through relationship that reveals a familiarity and understanding
beyond basic information. Hispanic business culture operates on the principle of conocimiento;
personal relationship, familiarity, and understanding are the foundation of strong business
relationship. This cultural principle is vital for any service provider to understand if they wish to
make connections in the Hispanic business community.
11. Wilkins11
Latina Entrepreneurs: A Growth Opportunity
The data from Penn State’s 2008 study on the Hispanic business community reveals
important differences between men and women who own small businesses in the Lehigh
Valley. The gendered differences of this data echo much of the literature that exists on female
entrepreneurship in the United States. In the Lehigh Valley, businesses owned by Hispanic
women are more likely to report lower revenues, less likely to have made recent capital
expenditures, and less likely to use formal financial services to finance their businesses.
Developing strategies to empower female entrepreneurs, specifically Hispanic females, to use
formal services like CDFIs could have an important impact on the families and communities of
Hispanic women in the Lehigh Valley.
Across the United States, Hispanic female entrepreneurs are generally less experienced
and have more issues with financial management in their businesses than Hispanic men. They
are less likely to be married, and they struggle more with balancing
their work and home life than do men when it comes to running a
small business (Eastlick). Smaller and more informal networks of
friends and family are the largest source of business advice for the
majority of Hispanic women, so tapping into this social network could
be an important component to CDFI success within the Hispanics
community (Eastlick). Research suggests that mentoring programs and
workshops that focus on capital management could provide ways to remedy the disparities that
Hispanic female business owners face when it comes to networking and gathering information
about their business.
*in the Lehigh Valley
12. Wilkins12
These kinds of workshops are already happening in the Lehigh Valley. Sonja Vazquez,
principal of Donegan Elementary School on the Southside of Bethlehem, has organized several
job training workshops for the parents of its students in recent months. Connecting with
initiatives like this, in addition to partnering with local churches, the Hispanic Chamber of
Commerce, and other community development organizations in the Lehigh Valley to develop
workshops that are geared toward entrepreneurs would make important information more
accessible to those in the Hispanic community. Providing business education resources through
trusted sources like churches and Hispanic community organizations appears to be an
important component to the success of such programs.
Hispanic Americans & CDFIs in the United States
There are several community development financial institutions within the microfinance
industry in the United States that are successfully lending to Hispanic entrepreneurs and
business owners. Grameen America, Accion USA, Community First Fund, and FINANTA, though
distinct in structure and practice, have successfully attracted high numbers of Hispanic
borrowers to their lending programs.
Grameen America is the United States division of Grameen Bank, which was founded by
Muhammad Yunus in Bangladesh during the 1970s. Grameen America got its start in New York
City in 2008, and the organization now has locations in eleven U.S. cities. Grameen’s lending
structure aims to serve “the poorest of the poor;” they provide unsecured loans in amounts up
to two-thousand dollars to women, all of whom live under the poverty line and ninety percent
of whom are Latina, to use for starting and growing a microenterprise in their community
(Klien). Grameen America, like its parent organization Grameen Bank, lends only to women,
13. Wilkins13
who are less likely to access formal financial services no matter where they live. More than half
of people living under the poverty line in the U.S. are women, and poverty rates are highest for
families headed by women, especially Hispanic women. Research has found that American
women are just as likely as women in poorer countries to put their family’s needs ahead of their
own” (Skibola).
Grameen’s lending structure in the United States is similar to the structure they use
throughout the rest of the world. Women who want to borrow from Grameen organize
themselves into groups of five, and each woman in the group receive an initial loan of $1500.
The group is not formally liable for each other’s loans, but Grameen will not lend additional
money to a group that has previously defaulted. These loans are designed to help women
launch microenterprises in their communities, and Grameen reports repayment rates upwards
of ninety-eight percent. In addition to microenterprise lending, Grameen provides non-
predatory access to credit for things like “paying off higher-priced debt, accessing more
affordable sources of consumer financing, or building credit” (Klein). As of 2015, Grameen
America has served over 64,000 clients in eleven U.S. cities and invested $381 million in serving
underbanked Americans (“Grameen America’s Impact”).
Accion USA is another CDFI that has had success within the Hispanic community across
the U.S. Accion began in 1991 and its member organizations have lent $400 million to more
than 50,000 clients over the past 25 years. The majority of their borrowers are women, and the
client base in Southern U.S. has a Hispanic majority. Accion is distinct from Grameen in that it
underwrites “larger business loans on a number of factors: the character and credit of the
borrower, the cash flow of the business, and in some cases, available collateral. The goal of
14. Wilkins14
Accion’s larger loan program is to build businesses that can provide higher incomes to families
and provide jobs for the owners and others.” In 2012, Accion USA’s average loan size was
$14,000. As of 2012, microlending has helped increase clients’ household income by a median
of twenty-four percent, and the businesses supported create an average of three jobs (Klein).
Accion Texas, a subsidiary of Accion USA, has had marked success along the Texas-
Mexico border, lending over seventeen million dollars between 2010 and 2015 (Nivin). Ninety-
three percent of their borrowers are Hispanic, and many of them are immigrants. The
increasing immigrant population and the high poverty rates along the Texas-Mexico border left
many households without access to financial institutions and suffering from high
unemployment rates. Accion’s microlending programs have become popular in the border
region due to several reasons. First, many low-income immigrants lack proper documentation,
which fuels an informal sector where cash-based microenterprises thrive. Second, “the
ethnically concentrated community” of Hispanics in the border region “carves out niche
markets for ethnic goods” that many microentrepreneurs sell. Finally, microenterprises are
proving to be an important tool “to increase family income, gain control over finances, and
reduce dependence on social support programs” among Hispanic families (Assanie 7).
In the case of Grameen USA and Accion USA, CDFIs can draw an important conclusion.
Immigrant communities around the country are an important source of business for both of
these organizations, and they have had significant success when working with these
populations. The Lehigh Valley has experienced an increase in the number of immigrants who
live here, adding over 12,000 residents from outside U.S. borders in the past five years (Krauss).
15. Wilkins15
Increasing access to financial services and financial literacy programs among immigrants in the
Lehigh Valley could open doors for microentrepreneurs to participate in CDFI programs.
Grameen and Accion may be power players in the U.S. microfinance industry, but the
majority of CDFIs are much smaller with loan portfolios averaging three million dollars per year
(Walker 386). Small, local CDFIs in Eastern Pennsylvania are doing some interesting things to
connect with the Hispanic community in the region; Community First Fund and FINANTA are
just two who stand out.
Community First Fund (CFF) is a community development financial institution that
operates in thirteen counties throughout Central Pennsylvania. Founded in 1992, Community
First provides loans ranging $2000-$2 million in microloans, small business loans, and economic
development loans in the region. Over the past five years CFF has hired Spanish-speaking loan
officers, who now account for half of their staff. Their offices are located in the downtowns of
Allentown, Lancaster, and Harrisburg, in neighborhoods with a high percentage of low-income
and minority residents. After intentionally hiring bilingual employees from the majority-
Hispanic neighborhoods in which Community First was operating, they saw an increase in
Hispanic borrowers in places like downtown Lancaster and Reading (Buerger). Community First
partners with the Small Business Development Center at Kutztown University to provide sound
business consulting services to its clients. These services are offered in both English and
Spanish, which is attractive to the Spanish-speaking population in the Reading area.
FINANTA is a CDFI founded in 1996 that operates within the city of Philadelphia, and it
has lent over ten million dollars in the past twenty years. They offer several different kinds of
credit products designed for small business owners, first-time home buyers, and
16. Wilkins16
microentreprenuers. FINANTA was founded with the goal of serving the diverse communities of
Philadelphia, and a large percentage of their client base is of Hispanic descent. Like Community
First Fund, FINANTA has many bilingual staff who are able to work with clients in both Spanish
and English to provide information on their services. They do not, however claimthis to be the
draw for the majority of their Hispanic clients. Instead, FINANTA points to the importance of
relationship and reputation that they have built within this community in Philadelphia. Their
greatest tool for marketing in Philly has been word-of-mouth, according to a loan officer.
FINANTA has built such a strong reputation as an ally in the Hispanic community because of its
flexibility. Many of the clients that FINANTA serves work outside of the traditional financial
system, lacking documentation, credit scores, and business records. Rather than turn these
clients away, FINANTA takes time to work with people who are unable to provide traditional
verifications of creditworthiness and business assets, using utility bills, manual records, and
other tools to perform due diligence (Standifer).
Each of the aforementioned CDFIs have several things in common in their work reaching
the Hispanic community in the United States. First, each has Spanish-speaking staff that is able
to serve a client base whose first language is not English, making these borrowers feel more
comfortable with the products they are using. Second, each of these organizations employs
various kinds of financial products, including savings accounts, ROSCAs, business consulting
services, small business loans, and economic development loans. This variety of products allows
them to meet the needs of a client base with different needs. Finally, each of these
organizations are heavily involved in the communities that they are trying to reach. Loan
officers come from and live in the communities that their organizations are trying to reach, and
17. Wilkins17
they often rely on borrowers to share information about their products with their social
networks.
Conclusion
The Rising Tide and CDFIs like it exist to provide services to people who have historically
been excluded from the financial system. A key question that community development
organizations must continue to ask is, “Who’s not here?” In the case of The Rising Tide, the
answer to that question is the Hispanic community. Hispanics make up twenty percent of the
population in the Lehigh Valley, and they have several unique circumstances that make
engagement among this community more nuanced than other groups of people. A cultural
stigma surrounding indebtedness, a lack of understanding of the financial system, and a lack of
trust in financial service providers are some of the main barriers that Hispanics face in engaging
with financial institutions. There is an increasing demand for credit products among small
business owners in the Hispanic community of the Lehigh Valley, but there is a lack of use of
formal financial services, especially among Hispanic women. CDFIs in the United States who
have had success in engaging the Hispanic community tend to employ Spanish-speaking staff
and offer a wide range of credit and savings products. The Rising Tide has a smaller scale than
the organizations mentioned in this research, but it can use these examples to cast a vision for
the future of its programs. Building a strong relationship between The Rising Tide and the
Hispanic community in the Lehigh Valley will create a bright future for both.
18. Wilkins18
Works Cited
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Southwest Economy. Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. Sept/Oct 2006: p. 3-7.
Bueger, Jim. Community First Fund. Personal Interview. 21 April 2016.
Cartageña, Samantha. The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of the Lehigh Valley. Personal
Interview. 11 April 2016.
Eastlick, Mary Ann and Soyeon Shim. “Characteristcs of Hispanic Female Business Owners: An
Exploratory Study.” Journal of Small Business Management. July 1998: p. 18-34.
“Grameen America’s Impact.” Grameen America. n.d. Web. 20 April 2016.
“The Hispanic American Financial Experience.” The Prudential Foundation. Prudential
Research 2014. 2014. Print.
Kamasaki, Charles and Laura Arce. “Hispanic Americans and Financial Services.” National
Council of La Raza. Issue Brief, August 2000.
Klein, Joyce. “What We Know About Microfinance in the U.S.” The Aspen Idea Blog. The Aspen
Institute. 31 Oct. 2013. Web. 3 April 2016.
Krauss, Scott. “Migration Driving Lehigh Valley’s Recent Population Growth.” The Morning Call.
2 April 2016. Web. 16 April 2016.
Landauer, Bill and Eugene Tauber. “Hispanic Population Crosses Threshold.” The Morning Call
26 June 2014. Web. 3 April 2016.
Nivin, Steven. Economic and Fiscal Impacts of Lift Fund: 2010-2015. Lift Fund: April 2016.
Ortiz, Jose Antonio. RCN Productions. Personal Interview. 13 April 2016.
Parker, Jennifer Talwar. “2008 Portrait of Latino Business Owners and Professionals in the
19. Wilkins19
Lehigh Valley.” Center for Community and Organizational Research. Penn State Lehigh
Valley. Nov. 2008. Print.
The Rising Tide Community Loan Fund. “About Us.” n.d. Web. 5 April 2016.
Rosenberg, Joyce. “Get Started: Hispanic Business Growth Outstrips Rest of U.S.” The
Associated Press 21 Sept. 2015. Web.
Skibola, Nicole. “Bringing the Girl Effect Back Home: Microfinance Projects for American
Women.” The Huffington Post. 23 Feb. 2011. Web. 23 April 2016.
Standifer, Stella. FINANTA. Personal Interview. 3 May 2016.
Walker, Olivia. “The Future of Microlending in the United States: A Shift from Charity to
Profits?” Ohio State Entrepreneurial Business Law Journal. Vol 6.1. 383-410.
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