On November 5th, our staff attended the City First Community Development Finance Conference, which was held at the R.I.S.E. (Relate, Innovate, Stimulate and Elevate) Demonstration Center in Southeast on St. Elizabeth’s campus.

With a focus on equitable economic development east of the (Anacostia) river, this day-long summit brought together the District’s key community development stakeholders and thought leaders to discuss the primary challenges and opportunities impacting Washington, DC’s neighborhoods in Wards 7 and Ward 8.

Industry best practices, trends in public policy, and innovative ideas were also shared, in order to provide tangible solutions, as well as a roadmap to deliver inclusive and visionary opportunities for all.

There were over 25 panelists at the conference, with the featured speakers being Brian Argrett, President of City First Bank, Chris Smith of WC Smith Companies, and Mayor Muriel Bowser.

There were eye-opening statistics shared by the Urban Institute, such as the fact that the average income for black residents in the District is $29,000, while the average income for white residents in the District is $65,000. Another alarming fact was that 17% of adults in Ward 7, ages 25 and above, do not have a high school diploma or GED, and 20% of adults in the same age range in Ward 8 do not have the aforementioned credentials.

Out of the 5 panels of discussion, there was a reoccurring message throughout the day that, not only is there a need for more jobs, but that jobs and economic opportunities must go hand-in-hand with affordable housing, as development east of the river continues.

For information regarding donating to Southeast Ministry, our programs, or volunteering, please visit. www.southeastministrydc.org, or call 202-562-2636.

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