Beneficial State Foundation

Overview

Beneficial State Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in the United States, recognized for its focus on financial justice and equity within the banking system. Established as a social and environmental justice nonprofit, it aims to transform financial services to foster equitable access to banking for marginalized communities.

History

The foundation operates primarily in Northern California, Oregon, and Washington, and is the founding shareholder of Beneficial State Bank, an institution noted for its commitment to serving low- and middle-income borrowers. The foundation emerged from the vision of environmentalist Tom Steyer and his wife Katherine Taylor, who sought to create a bank that prioritizes social responsibility and environmental sustainability through its lending practices and investment strategies.

Mission

The core mission of Beneficial State Foundation is to change the banking system for good by promoting equitable banking standards and practices. It strives to address historical and systemic inequities, particularly those affecting communities of color and low-income individuals. The foundation believes that banks should serve the public interest and redirect financial resources towards community development, social justice, and environmental initiatives.

Programs and Initiatives

Beneficial State Foundation engages in various programs aimed at increasing credit access and fostering community support:

• Underwriting for Racial Justice: This initiative convenes over 60 stakeholders, including underwriters, policy makers, and borrowers, to enhance credit access for historically excluded communities.
• Community Impact Initiatives: Through its associated bank, the foundation provides loans primarily to businesses and nonprofits that support low-income communities, focusing on sectors that promote social equity and environmental sustainability.
• Loan Practices: Beneficial State Bank emphasizes fair lending practices and seeks to provide transparent credit options to its clients. It uses alternative credit scoring models that account for a broader range of financial behaviors to improve access for underserved populations.

Advocacy Efforts

Beneficial State Foundation is an advocate for progressive banking policies and regulations. It actively supports:

• Enhancements to the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) to ensure it incorporates criteria for racial and environmental equity.
• The development of public banks that align with social justice goals and contribute to community development.
• Policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy practices.

Financial Practices

The foundation channels the profits generated from Beneficial State Bank into community development projects and advocacy efforts that align with its mission. By prioritizing investment in left-of-center banking initiatives, Beneficial State Foundation aims to shift the financial landscape towards more equitable practices.

Conclusion

Through its commitment to financial justice, Beneficial State Foundation seeks to redefine the role of banking in society, ensuring that financial systems support rather than hinder the growth and prosperity of marginalized communities. Its holistic approach combines advocacy, community support, and sustainable banking practices to promote a more just and inclusive economy.

[1] https://beneficialstate.org/urj/ [2] https://www.influencewatch.org/non-profit/beneficial-state-foundation/ [3] https://www.beneficialstatebank.com/impact/community [4] https://beneficialstate.org [5] https://beneficialstate.org/what-we-do/leadership-development/fellowship-program-details/