Mission & History

Our Vision

We envision a California where all communities—regardless of race or income— equitably control real estate as a path to agency, self-determination, and power.

Our Theory of Change

We believe that community ownership of community assets is one of the most powerful tools for cultivating thriving neighborhoods, advancing economic justice, and building lasting power. Our theory of change articulates how we believe our work contributes towards our vision, helping us measure our impact and ensure that our work advances lasting community ownership. Read our full theory of change.

Our History

Community Vision was founded in 1987 as the Northern California Community Loan Fund by a group of community-minded individuals who believed their money could be a tool for justice. They envisioned financially strong and culturally vibrant communities, rooted in self-determination and capable of shaping their own futures.

Since then, we’ve carried that vision forward by connecting capital and expertise with the people and organizations working to strengthen their communities. Through lending, advising, and partnership, we support nonprofits, small businesses, cooperatives, and community-rooted organizations across California. To date, we’ve invested more than $616 million in financing, leveraged over $3.3 billion, and distributed more than $39 million in grants to advance this work.

We remain committed to advancing community ownership of community assets—helping communities build stability, equity, and power for generations to come.