View S.A.F.E.'s Website at www.safecdfi.org
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:
- Predevelopment Loans
- Flexible Gap Financing
- Lines of Credit with flexible, innovative terms
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
Carolina First Bank
Chairperson
Bernie Mazyck
Marcia Benson
Michele Murff
Kimberly Davis
Carl Neely, Ex-Officio
Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond – Charlotte Office
Advisory Board Members
South Carolina State Housing and Finance Development Authority
First Citizens Bank
Marilyn Drayton
Carolina First Bank