The South Bend Chapter of the NAACP is expanding efforts related to economic development. The chapter is actively working to strengthen the economic fabric of communities through supporting the creation and growth of small businesses, individual wealth building, primarily through matched savings accounts, and community asset building in keeping with the national organization’s tenants.
The local chapter of this venerable organization is part of a coalition of grassroots organizations focused on results. Leveraging relationships with the 100 black men of greater South Bend, Michiana African American Chamber of Commerce, Michiana SCORE, Project Impact South Bend, and others, they are actively identifying, preparing and developing businesses in the South Bend African American community. At the center of this coalition of community economic developers is the Community Unity Center.
The CUC uses a process called the Community Business Revitalization Resource (CBRR) Solution. Pronounced Sabre, the Sabre Solution is based on the understanding that inner city communities can best be revitalized through the creation of small businesses within those communities. The key here is from within the communities. The process leverages the multiplier effect. By hiring people from the community and doing business with companies within the community each dollar generated is re-circulated within that community more often. This disciplined process stimulates true sustainable economic development.
Working with these and other organizations the NAACP is connecting African American entrepreneurs to the general advisors, mentors, capital, resources and more throughout the community. These efforts not only strengthen businesses in the African American community, but the entire Michiana community.
For more information visit http://naacp-southbend.org/.
http://www.ted.com/talks/geoffrey_west_the_surprising_math_of_cities_and...
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