Celebrating 40 Years of Reinvestment Fund: A Legacy of Impact and a Vision for the Future

Reinvestment Fund’s journey began with the bold vision that finance could be a tool for community empowerment. Over the past four decades, we’ve seen that impactful change doesn’t happen overnight; it happens one investment, one policy, one community at a time.

Reinvestment Fund’s partners, supporters, and community leaders gathered at the Bok Building in Philadelphia to mark a milestone: 40 years of building communities where all people thrive. The anniversary celebrated how we have navigated economic shifts, social challenges, and moments of deep uncertainty, offering a reaffirmation of our mission and a look ahead to the work still to come.

The Bok Building, redeveloped by Scout with support from Reinvestment Fund and partners, illustrates that commitment by repurposing a decommissioned public school building into a community hub for creativity and connection.

Guests gathered in the building’s former gymnasium for the celebration, exploring a visual timeline that traced our growth from local beginnings in Philadelphia to a nationally recognized Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI).

The evening’s programming kicked off with a video showcasing the story of Reinvestment Fund through the voices of leaders who shape it. Past, present, and future—this is what teamwork in impact looks like.

Community Leaders and Partners
Philadelphia’s Mayor, the honorable Cherelle Parker, was also among those celebrating Reinvestment Fund’s 40^th. She shared a personal connection to Reinvestment Fund’s mission and noted that the organization has been part of “every consumer protection advocacy effort” throughout her career—from fighting predatory lending after the 2008 housing crash to creating pathways for homeownership in underserved communities. Parker underscored the deep alignment between Reinvestment Fund’s work and the city’s commitment to equity, stating, “Everyone should have access to the opportunity to own a home.”

Councilmember Rue Landau also presented a City Council Resolution honoring Reinvestment Fund—a recognition she introduced earlier in the spring. A lifelong advocate for housing and civil rights, Landau emphasized the organization’s transformative role in creating affordable housing, combating predatory lending, and reinvesting in overlooked neighborhoods. Her words reflected the deep respect and partnership between Reinvestment Fund and the City of Philadelphia.

Voices of Impact
Board Chair Saul Behar reflected on Reinvestment Fund’s unique blend of rigor and vision, noting that “our work is only possible with the hard work and dedication of Reinvestment Fund’s team and leadership.” He emphasized that the organization is prepared to meet new challenges with creativity and resolve.

Renowned historian and antiracist scholar Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, offered a powerful perspective on the connection between racial and economic equity. He underscored the importance of mission-driven organizations like Reinvestment Fund in dismantling barriers and expanding opportunity, reminding us that “there can be no racial equity without economic equity.” His remarks highlighted the promise of innovative programs such as the HBCU Brilliance Initiative, where he serves as a strategic advisor. Dr. Kendi concluded by encouraging everyone to risk danger in pursuit of what is right because “when our best is ahead of us, it requires us to have courage to get there.”

Continuing the Work
As part of Reinvestment Fund’s 40^th anniversary, we launched the Why Campaign, a year-long initiative reflecting our unwavering commitment to fostering economic opportunity, advancing community resilience, and ensuring lasting social progress. It is not just a reflection but a glimpse into the future.

This milestone is also a collective achievement. It belongs to our staff, whose dedication drives our mission forward every day. It belongs to our partners, whose trust and collaboration make our work possible. And it belongs to the communities we serve, whose resilience and leadership continue to be our greatest inspiration.

President and CEO Don Hinkle-Brown expressed gratitude to the diverse network of stakeholders, including board members, community organizations, advocates, and staff, who make this work possible.

That future includes continuing partnerships that transform spaces and strengthen communities. Just as the Bok Building stands for what community investment can achieve, we are proud to support Scout as they begin developing the Village of Industry and Art. Reinvestment Fund is supporting similar projects across the country which will create new opportunities for connection, creativity, and economic vitality — further proof that when we invest in places, we invest in people.

Together, we are not just reflecting on the past; we are building what comes next. As we look ahead to the next 40 years, we invite you to join us—learn more at Why Campaign.