Community Development Loan Fund

The BVM congregation has chosen to invest a portion of its investments in a Community Development Loan Fund. This fund allows us to use our financial resources by investing in people and projects for a specified time. These loans often give somewhat less in financial returns, but infinitely more social returns! The difference in interest margin can leverage enormous change in the lives and economic viability of scores of persons.

Win-win situations are created as economically disadvantaged persons receive loans from BVMs and other groups that enable them to work toward self-sufficiency. Loans for non-profit housing initiatives, for example, enable families to live in decent, affordable housing for the first time.

After a specified time, the principal – the amount lent – is returned, to be lent out again.

Through our alternative investments we celebrate that our core values of charity, freedom, education and justice are expressed in our use of money as well as in the work and prayer of our sisters. Community Development Loan Funds further our BVM mission – and they engender a world of hope.

Loan Profile

Maximum Investment: N/A
Average: $50,000
Type of Investment: Direct loans, CDs, loan funds, credit unions, micro-lending funds
Geographic Preference: None, also lend to international micro-lending funds
Application deadlines: Rolling Basis, no deadlines
Length of time for review: 30 to 90 days
Community Investments Initiated Since 1987 $5,000,000+
Priority Focus: Underserved communities/individuals; housing; micro-lending funds; women and children.

For further information about the Sisters of Charity, BVM Community Development Loan Fund, contact:
Investment Officer:

Sample of Community Development Loan Funds