To assist SAFE in further developing its products and programs, please complete the following Project Information Form. While not an application, this information is critical to SAFE's procurement of loan capital that will fund a host of community development projects and programs. Thank you!

Mission and History of SAFE
The mission of the Southern Association for Financial Empowerment (S.A.F.E.) is to provide alternative financial products and services in support of community economic development in low and moderate income communities of South Carolina.

SAFE was created by the South Carolina Association of Community Development Corporations (SCACDC) Board of Directors, which recognized a need for a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). CDFIs play a critical role in supporting community economic development via the provision of flexible, innovative capital tied to high impact objectives in distressed communities.

The maturation of the community development industry in South Carolina confirms both the need and demand for a CDFI. SAFE is in the early stages of filling that niche.

Market Needs Assessment

SAFE conducted a preliminary survey of potential borrowers (CDCs and other community economic development organizations that serve distressed communities) to assist in refining its strategic direction.
Survey respondents indicated three primary products that would significantly advance their efforts:

SAFE is currently exploring the feasibility of these products by leveraging the input, feedback, and experience of other CDFIs and the banking community.

Board of Directors

Marilyn Drayton, Carolina First Bank - Chair of the Board
Kimberly Davis, Wachovia - Vice Chair
Bernie Mazyck, SCACDC - Secretary
Wilbur Cave, Allendale County ALIVE
Celeste Snow, Federal Home Bank of Atlanta
Carl Neely, Jr., Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond (Charlotte), Ex-Officio
Mike Manis, Eau Claire CDC
Jack Penasoto, Bank of America

Advisory Board Members

Valerie Williams, South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority
Robert Thomas, Southeastern Housing Fdn. & The Affordable Housing Coalition of SC
Michael Lentz, Carolina First Bank

 

 

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