October Newsletter: Building an Inclusive Economy

Are You Invested in an Inclusive Economy?
Building an inclusive economy strengthens our workplaces and our communities – it benefits us all. And employment social enterprises are integral to realizing that vision.

Our country faces economic and social challenges the magnitude of which we have not seen for generations. Now is the time to invest in solutions that work at the scope and scale demanded.

REDF is committed to building a more inclusive economy – powered by employment social enterprises. Learn how you can join us!

REDF Receives $1.2M USDA Grant
We are thrilled to share that REDF has received a $1.2 million grant from USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service to create a program that provides training and technical assistance to employment social enterprises to serve SNAP participants. REDF will provide this training alongside our partners at Center for Employment Opportunities and Seattle Jobs Initiative. Learn more.

The Latest from REDF Impact Investing Fund

In recent months, the REDF Impact Investing Fund (RIIF), which deploys flexible capital to employment social enterprises poised for growth, has achieved several exciting milestones.

RIIF recently closed two new loans to Firebrand Artisan Breads and Evanston Rebuilding Exchange. A newly-awarded technical assistance grant from the CDFI Fund will be used to build staff capacity and lay groundwork for growth, and our newly formed Advisory Council will ensure RIIF continues to advance equity and reflect the communities we serve. Sign up to receive quarterly updates about RIIF’s activities and growth!

Carla Javits is a SPUR 2020 Honoree

We are excited to share that REDF President & CEO Carla Javits is a 2020 Silver SPUR honoree! SPUR, the San Francisco Bay Area Planning and Urban Research Association, is committed to bringing people together from across the political spectrum to develop solutions to the big problems our cities face. This award recognizes Carla’s contributions to helping build a Bay Area where all people have the jobs and support they need to succeed.

The award will be presented during a virtual event on Wednesday, October 28, featuring special guest Trevor Noah. Tickets are free but space is limited. Register today!

In Their Own Words: The Power of Social Enterprise
For many graduates of employment social enterprise, the experience is so transformative that they dedicate themselves – and their careers – to helping others. That’s the ripple effect of social enterprise.

We recently sat down with three inspiring ESE graduates for an update, and to learn how they are continuing to foster positive change in our communities. Read the conversations.

“My work is sacred because it allows me to see people transform. I know there is a light within the young people I work with, and when I see the light come back on, there’s no greater gift.” – JaShawn Hill