Latest news with #communityinvestment
CTV News
a day ago
- Business
- CTV News
Where would you spend $1M in Windsor-Essex? WECF wants to know
Lisa Kolody, the Executive Director of the Windsor Essex Community Foundation seen in Windsor, Ont. on June 4, 2025. (Michelle Maluske/CTV Windsor) The Windsor Essex Community Foundation is wondering where you would spend $1 million in the community. The WECF has launched their annual 'Vital Signs' survey, asking where they should spend money. 'The community sets those priorities for us,' Lisa Kolody, WECF Executive Director said. 'We really want to hear from you of what's important to you.' Kolody said this is the 12th year for the annual report, which will help them choose where to invest in Windsor-Essex. 'We give out about $1.5 million per year,' Kolody said. The survey takes less than five minutes and asks respondents to rank how they feel and what the top priority should be across 11 different areas. Everything from housing to newcomers to education and arts is covered. The survey closes on Aug. 8 and a Vital Signs Report will be released in October. 'Vital Signs is just another tool for us to look at what will make our community better and how can we invest,' Kolody said. WECF was founded in 1983 by Albert Weeks, Clifford Hatch Sr., and Charles Clark Sr., with an initial endowment of $1 million more than 40 years ago. 'We've invested $17 million in the community in that time,' Kolody said, noting its now grown to $33 million. 'We grant off the interest.'
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Fremont Federal Credit Union to build new HQ on old Kroger site
Fremont Federal Credit Union will build a new headquarters on the site of the former Kroger grocery store at 134 S. Fifth St. According to an announcement, the new headquarters will open in early 2027. The current location at 315 Croghan St. has been the credit union's hub since 1994, but the building is more than 100 years old and no longer meets the credit union's needs, CEO Nick Cray said. "As proud as we are of our history, it's time to build a future-ready space that reflects our vision and supports the exceptional work our employees do every day,' Cray said in the announcement. The new property is being developed by Janotta & Herner, a design-and-build firm based in Monroeville, Ohio. The new headquarters will feature more collaborative workspaces, upgraded technology and room to grow. Site preparation work will begin this summer, with construction taking place in 2026 and an anticipated move-in date of early 2027. Fremont Mayor Daniel Sanchez expressed his support for the move, calling it a large investment in both the credit union and the community. "Their plan of purchasing property that was in need of revitalization demonstrates their commitment to Fremont," Sanchez said in the announcement. "As my team and I work to attract new developments daily, I believe this project will spark more good things to happen in our community.' Fremont Federal Credit Union is a member-owned credit union that is committed to giving back to its members. Earlier this year, the board voted to give $500,000 back to its members through a special dividend, which will be distributed by June 30. Membership is open to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Sandusky, Ottawa, Seneca, Wood, Hancock, Lucas and Fulton counties. On May 5, the credit union celebrated the grand opening of its seventh branch location in Bowling Green and its first in Wood County. At the event, the credit union announced a three-year partnership agreement to be the presenting sponsor of the Battle of I-75 Rivalry Series between the Bowling Green State University Falcons and the University of Toledo Rockets. 'As Fremont Federal Credit Union grows, one thing remains the same: a commitment to the people and communities we serve," Cray said. "We're proud to call Fremont home and look forward to serving our members – new and longtime – build brighter financial futures through our new facility.' This story was created by Jane Imbody, jimbody@ with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at or share your thoughts at with our News Automation and AI team. This article originally appeared on Fremont News-Messenger: Fremont Federal Credit Union plans future-ready HQ for 2027 opening Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Forbes
27-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Celebrities And Community Rally Around Oakland Ballers Baseball Team
"Oakland Will Never Quit" banner hangs on a fence during Oakland Ballers' inaugural home opener ... More against YOLO High Wheelers at Raimondi Park in Oakland, Calif. (Photo by Scott Strazzante/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images) With three major sports league franchises leaving Oakland, the Pioneer League's Oakland Ballers are receiving financial support from thousands in the community, as well as endorsements from big-name celebrities. Oakland once hosted the NFL's Oakland Raiders, the NBA's Golden State Warriors, and the MLB's Oakland Athletics. With the Warriors moving across the bay to San Francisco, as well as the Raiders, and eventually the A's relocating to Las Vegas, Oakland, once a hotbed of sports activity, has seemed abandoned. Out of this vacuum, the Oakland Ballers are demonstrating that there is – and always has been – a passionate fan base. Notably, the Ballers have prioritized repairing the relationship between fans and sports teams in Oakland. To do that, they have used community investment a cornerstone which allows the fans to have a 'social contract' with the club that provides checks and balances around moving the team, changing team logos or brand marks, and making some key front office hiring positions by having a fan representative on the board of the club. The concept of community investment has struck a chord with the community, with celebrities ranging from Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day, hip-hop star Too $hort, rapper Jwalt, former NBA player Antonio Davis, actors Blair Underwood and Alex Winter, Olympic swimmer Natalie Coughlin, MLB players Chase and Travis d'Arnaud and more, jumping in and making investments. A total of 4,200 investors have become involved in the Ballers, with the first round garnering $1.234 million, and a second round that recently closed, netting $1.962 million. The average investment was $649.26, with representation across 740 zip codes. The most significant investment was $50,000. 'It's been humbling. We're at the point where if we just invited investors to a game, it would be a sellout,' said Paul Freedman, CEO and Co-Founder of the Ballers. 'So, for a community team like ours to have such a level of support -- not just in Oakland, not just in California, but across the nation and around the globe -- it's amazing.' Freedman said that the goal with the investment capital is to break even this year, with the next year and beyond being a profitable, sustaining, and enduring organization. 'We want to be open forever,' he said. How that fan model will be manifested is the core of how the Ballers are run. After decades of major sports leagues leaving on what may best be described as bad terms, the Ballers are going in the opposite direction. 'Our model is based on radical participation from the fans at every aspect of the organization,' said Bryan Carmel, Co-Founder and Chief Experience Officer of the Ballers. 'That means that from when we came up with the idea to start a new team in Oakland, in the first place, we engaged community stakeholders long before we announced the team, even in terms of where we are going to play? What should the branding be? What should the values be of the team? What's important to you, the fan base? Our fundamental idea is that the real value of a sports team lies in its fans. Like that is the product. We want to change the model for how fans and teams can build value together.' The viral nature of community investment has reached celebrities with ties to Oakland, the Bay Area, and beyond. 'Sports in the Bay Area have been transforming over the last couple of years,' said Billie Joe Armstrong, guitarist and frontman for the band Green Day. 'We've had some emotional goodbyes to teams we grew up with, but recently, there has been a major shift. The Oakland Ballers and the Oakland Roots & Soul represent everything I love and grew up on in the Bay Area. The welcoming atmosphere, DIY attitude and the people behind it make me proud to be an investor and support the next generation of teams kids in the bay will be proud of.' Blair Underwood, the Emmy and Grammy-winning star who has been a staple in Hollywood for years, has jumped on board with Ballers. In between voice work for Lexus, where he's the focus of the luxury car's 'The Standard of Amazing' ad campaign, he spoke to me in an exclusive interview for Forbes about what investing in the Ballers is all about. Underwood said he became aware of the Ballers through a business partner involved in nonprofits and foundational pieces, Alameda Foster Care. When he mentioned the Ballers, what with the Raiders, Warriors, and A's leaving Oakland, Underwood was intrigued. 'I was just very, very excited about [what the Ballers represented],' Underwood said. 'And then, the other aspect I love about it is the fact that it is a fan-based, community-based opportunity to have ownership in the team. One of the fans is a member on the board, so there's a direct link – direct access to the fan base and the decision-making that's going on. So, I was really intrigued and enthralled by that whole business model of community-based investment, and also that there was such a need. And that you put those two together, you feel the need to fill the void with something that's viable and exciting to that community. And, the community can actually have a say and a financial interest in that investment. It just made sense, and I just got excited about being a part of it.' The Oakland Ballers have just started their second season in Oakland. If there's anything to learn, it's that sports can thrive without the underpinnings of big business, where the fans are at the forefront.
National Post
26-05-2025
- Business
- National Post
Newmont Celebrates 10th Anniversary of Red Chris Mine with $8 Million Contribution to Three Tahltan Communities
Article content VANCOUVER, Canada — Newmont Corporation (NYSE: NEM, TSX: NGT, ASX: NEM, PNGX: NEM) ('Newmont') has announced an CAD $8 million community investment to benefit the Tahltan Nation as part of its celebration of the tenth anniversary of the Red Chris Mine. The investment, which will benefit the communities of Telegraph Creek, Dease Lake and Iskut, was announced during a special event on Saturday, May 24 th in Dease Lake, British Columbia held in commemoration of the successful co-management of the mine with the Tahltan Nation. Article content Article content The investment will fund a range of projects aimed at improving community well-being, including the development of community-use spaces, recreation facilities, and greenhouse space. A portion of the investment will also support planning and pre-development efforts to improve housing in each community. Article content The Red Chris Mine is an open-pit copper and gold mine that has become a key economic pillar in Tahltan territory, employing approximately 220 Tahltans and generating approximately $100 million annually in business with the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC). In addition, the mine pays annual royalties to the Tahltan Heritage Trust and contributes mineral tax revenue to the Province of British Columbia which is shared directly with the Tahltan Nation. Article content The Red Chris Mine is managed in close partnership with Tahltan Nation through an Impact Benefit and Co-Management Agreement ensuring that Tahltan expertise, perspectives, and values guide the operation, and serving as a leading example of reconciliatory resource development. Article content Rich in the critical minerals that the world uses for electrification, emerging technologies, and to manufacture the products we use every day, Tahltan Territory and the Red Chris Mine have long been a key contributor to the British Columbia economy. Newmont looks forward to building on the legacy of the past ten years as we grow the relationship with Tahltan Nation and aspire for success together in the future. Article content 'Newmont acquired the Red Chris Mine in November 2023, and we know that our projects and operations can only succeed when the communities that host them are also we celebrate our partnership with Tahltan Nation and shared stewardship at Red Chris. Through this community contribution we extend our gratitude for the collaboration Tahltan Nation has helped to foster here as we also show our commitment to a shared vision and shared prosperity for the future.' – Tom Palmer, CEO, Newmont Article content 'I feel heard. My conversation with Tom Palmer, CEO of Newmont, is becoming reality. This announcement comes from advocating for community contributions, which demonstrates a meaningful and longstanding commitment to our communities. This $8 million contribution gets us started on a series of projects that will enrich all our communities. It is another step toward ensuring every Tahltan child, youth, adult, and Elder directly benefits from resource development in our territory. Also, steps were taken to consult with our members to determine our community needs. Because of Newmont's continued efforts, we can celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Red Chris Mine. We would also like to celebrate the 40th year anniversary of Tahltan Nation Development Corporation. I am so thankful and proud of all Tahltan and non-Tahltan employees who have built this company through hard work and dedication to make our business a success.' – President Beverly Slater, Tahltan Central Government Article content 'As we mark Red Chris' 10-year anniversary, I am reminded of the importance of partnership and collaboration. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Red Chris stepped up to support our communities in meaningful ways, including providing testing and other essential services. Their commitment to our well-being and community development is a testament to their dedication to being a responsible and respectful partner. I look forward to continuing our close collaboration, especially since Iskut is Red Chris's nearest neighbor.' – Chief Marie Quock, Iskut Band Article content 'On Red Chris' 10th year in Tahltan Territory, we honor our partnership, growth, and shared responsibility. Together, we have overcome challenges, celebrated successes, and built mutual respect. Let us stay committed and aim for sustainable prosperity for our people and land ahead.' – Chief Richard (Rocky) Jackson, Tahltan Band Article content 'It's great to see this investment flowing back to the communities that help make projects like Red Chris possible. The Tahltan Nation has long led the way in showing how responsible development can protect the land, honour culture, and benefit local people. Through co-management with Newmont, Tahltan values are woven into the way this mine operates every day.' – Hon. Jagrup Brar, British Columbia Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals Article content 'This anniversary is more than a milestone—it is a reflection of how far the Tahltan Nation has come in rising up, stepping forward, and taking control of its future. TNDC's partnership with Newmont is not just about collaboration—it is about building capacity, leading the way, and creating long-term opportunities for Tahltans, for generations to come.' – Todd den Engelsen, CEO, Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC) Article content 'The incredible success story of co-management and business partnership at the Red Chris Mine is a testament to Tahltan Nation's leadership and values around balancing economic development with environmental protection and the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of the Tahltan people. It is a model unparalleled in the world, built on the determination and forethought of various Tahltan leaders over time who have each made important contributions and then passed the torch onwards.' – Abdul Rahman Amoadu, Managing Director – Africa & Canada, Newmont Article content Newmont is the world's leading gold company and a producer of copper, zinc, lead, and silver. The Company's world-class portfolio of assets, prospects and talent is anchored in favorable mining jurisdictions in Africa, Australia, Latin America & Caribbean, North America, and Papua New Guinea. Newmont is the only gold producer listed in the S&P 500 Index and is widely recognized for its principled environmental, social, and governance practices. Newmont is an industry leader in value creation, supported by robust safety standards, superior execution, and technical expertise. Founded in 1921, the Company has been publicly traded since 1925. Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content
Daily Mail
11-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
Flo Rida continues to buy up his hometown he sang about with $10M mall - and his tenant reveals how he's changing it
Flo Rida is using his success to do more than just make music — he's investing in the neighborhood that raised him. The rapper, born Tramar Dillard, rose to fame with his 2007 hit Low and has sold more than 100 million records. A Miami Gardens native, he won an $82.6 million lawsuit against Celsius and is now channeling that success back into his community. Alongside his longtime manager Lee 'Freezy' Prince, Dillard is revitalizing Cloverleaf Plaza — a once-neglected shopping center built in 1955. According to the Miami Herald, it is now the city's first black-owned and black-managed plaza, a historic milestone in a community where more than 60 percent of residents identify as black. The duo purchased the plaza in 2023 for $10 million through their company, Strong Arm Management. It's located on busy Highway 441 near other major shopping centers like Miami Gardens Square and Lincoln Square. 'We just thought that this would be a great staple,' Dillard told the Herald. 'After purchasing the club, Studio 183, we looked at making an investment — buying the entire plaza.' 'You might own a house and things like that, but growing up just looking at high-rises and things like that, the first thing is not to think that you can own it,' he continued. 'Maybe you have a spot there, but you won't really own it. So to actually own our own plaza is just phenomenal.' Speaking to Nicole Ward, owner of Prestige Beauty Salon, said the difference under the new leadership has been profound. She's been a tenant at Cloverleaf Plaza since January 2011 — and said what she's seeing now is a complete turnaround. The rapper, born Tramar Dillard, called the investment a 'great staple' and said owning property like this was once unimaginable to him growing up 'I was happy and proud,' Ward said of learning Flo Rida had purchased the plaza. 'Happy that we were getting a black owner. Proud that a black man accomplished something so big — an entire plaza.' Ward said there were years of neglect under a previous landlord. 'For the past 11 or 12 years, the place was in complete confusion,' she claimed. 'I did what I could, but the previous owner never did any restoration work.' Now, she says, everything has changed. 'This place is amazing,' she said. 'They redid the inside, the lights — everything. Every day is perfect. They're now working on the outside of the plaza, and I can't wait to see the finished product.' Though she hasn't met Flo Rida in person, Ward says Prince has been extremely hands-on. 'Mr. Lee is always around — he just passed by a few minutes ago,' she said. 'If something goes wrong, he's easy to talk to. You tell him what's bothering you, and he fixes it. So far, so good — no complaints.' The changes have made a real difference in both morale and day-to-day operations. Ward praised Prince's hands-on management, updated infrastructure and a newfound sense of stability for businesses 'My customers love coming into a beautiful, clean place where everything works,' she said. 'We used to have problems with the air conditioning and water heater, and the old landlord would just say it was our responsibility to fix it — even though it was his stuff.' 'Now, it's different,' she added. 'I have new appliances, and I'm happy to maintain them myself. But overall, everything is just better.' Ward says she's proud to be part of a black-led revitalization. 'I'm excited, I'm comfortable — and I'm not going anywhere for now,' she said. 'I'm proud of these black men. I'm here with people who respect us and don't take advantage — and that means a lot.' She hopes the plaza fills up with long-term, reliable businesses. 'I want all the units rented out to good, permanent businesses,' she said. 'In the past, tenants didn't stay — there were problems with rent, leaks, you name it. People were always coming and going.' 'People don't like being moved around. I want stability — for myself and for others. I want us all to work with the owners, be reasonable, and live and work here peacefully.' Ward says business has already started to improve — but expects even more once construction is complete. 'A few more people have come in, but I'm waiting for everything to be finished,' she said. 'I've got five chairs open. I need renters. But I know once it's done, more people will come.' As for the bigger picture? 'I'm just telling the truth — they're amazing people so far,' she said. 'Everything is still new, but let's see how things go over the next year or two. I love what they're doing. They're doing a good job. And I'm happy.' Another longtime tenant, Grace Vernon, 74, who has run Flowers by Grace at the plaza for 30 years, echoed that pride to 'To be honest with you, it's very nice to see African American people investing in the community,' Vernon said. 'And it made me feel very proud.' 'They're refurbishing all the stores, and I mean, it looks fabulous,' she added. 'You want to have a place where your customers are happy to come in to do business — and that is the biggest impact I've seen.' 'It gives you a sense of pride,' Vernon said. 'I'm just happy to see someone who looks like you doing well.' She also praised improvements in plaza management. 'They come in and check to make sure everything is running along smoothly. Another notable change — they had some security on the plaza, so your customer feels safe coming on the plaza.' Realtor Tamika Moses told the Herald the acquisition is part of a broader trend of black investors reclaiming commercial space in historically black neighborhoods. 'It's more investor groups that are getting together to actually buy back into the old, historically black areas… because they want a piece of it and for us to still have our footprint in those areas,' Moses said. 'Ownership is the key,' she added. 'You can leverage that equity to go off and go purchase other commercial real estate.' But she noted it hasn't come easy. 'It's hard because there's always been barriers,' she said. 'We were never taught. A lot of us are first generation. So, we're learning as we go.' For now, Ward says she's just glad to be a part of it. 'I'm here, and I'm proud,' she said. 'And I'm staying.'
