NDFC’s session at the 2023 OFN Conference

A group of seven presenters posing for a photo at the Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) Conference during a session on Disability Finance. They are gathered around a table with water bottles and papers visible in the foreground.

Our session on Disability Finance at the Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) Conference was a success in large part thanks to Rita German’s excellent moderating. A special thanks to the JPMorgan Chase Foundation for its support. Pictured above from left to right: Andrew Porter (NDFC), Erica Quin-Easter (Genesis Fund), Pam Porter (NDFC), Rita German (JPMorgan Chase), Charlie Hammerman (Disability Opportunity Fund), Emerson Sekins (Northwest Access Fund), Towner French (Cozen O’Connor).

Here is a description of what we covered in the session: People with Disabilities (PWD) comprise over 60 million people in the United States. They are three-times more likely to be underbanked and nearly twice as likely to be turned down for credit than those without a disability. CDFIs want to understand this underserved market better and determine how to serve best. In this session, we highlighted how disability finance aligns with current CDFIs financial services and identified some of the key differences. We covered affordable and supportive housing; home renovations; assistive technology; financial literacy; community facilities; and entrepreneurship. Chances are most CDFIs are already serving people with disabilities. In this session, participants learned how to do so more intentionally and effectively.

Reflections on the 2023 OFN Conference

We are still buzzing with inspiration and pride from the 2023 Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) Conference. Among the many memorable moments, one stands out prominently: when Jonathan Porter took center stage at the plenary session on Tuesday and reflected on the positive impact the CDFI industry, in particular our esteemed member the Northwest Access Fund, has had on his life.

Northwest Access Fund Executive Director Emerson Sekins and his colleagues helped Jonathan finance a special wheelchair that among other things allowed him to elevate himself to eye-level with standing people, so that, for example, he was able to look his bride directly in the eye on his wedding day.

We extend our thanks to the OFN for providing a platform to share these critical narratives, highlighting the human side of financial services. Moreover, we recognize the dedication of organizations like the Northwest Access Fund, working on the ground to transform lives in practical, yet profound ways.

NDFC offering two upcoming trainings in Aug. and Sept. 2023

First, CDFI (Re)Certification will be offered on August 10 from 2:00-3:30pm ET. Presented in conjunction with Friedman Associates, this webinar will break down specific changes to the Certification Application that will require all existing certified CDFIs to recertify. We will also outline proposed changes related to Persons with Disabilities as an Other Target Population.

Register here:CDFI Re(Certification)Meeting Registration – Zoom

Second, Accessible, Affordable Housing Development on September 14 from 1:00-2:30pm ET. This webinar will provide a primer on housing policy for People with Disabilities and provide a wide range of case studies of housing development by NDFC members. Hear from NDFC members Genesis Fund, PATF, Disability Opportunity Fund, and our Government Affairs consultant Towner French.

Accessible, Affordable Housing DevelopmentMeeting Registration – Zoom