20 Aug MCCF Hosts Statewide Impact Investment Meeting
The meeting hosted over 20 foundation representatives from around the state of Kansas.
This week, the McPherson County Community Foundation hosted the Kansas Health Foundation and community foundations from across the state for KHF’s Quarterly Impact Investment Meeting.
The meeting brought together foundations with established impact investing programs, as well as those in the early stages of developing their own programs.
Alejo Cabral, KHF’s director of philanthropic partnerships, led the discussion and shared strategies for helping foundations better utilize their impact investment funds. Cabral also discussed ways KHF can support partner foundations as they explore impact investment opportunities in their communities.
MCCF President Michelle Huddle then shared the work of the Foundation’s own impact investment program. She highlighted several notable projects supported through the program, including the acquisition of the Oxford House facility, land for the Oak Harbor housing project, library renovations, and startup funding for a children’s therapy office.
The Foundation used the McPherson Trolly to showcase the many impact investment loans that are active in the community.
Huddle said impact investing has the potential to be one of the Foundation’s most effective tools for creating economic impact in local communities.
“These investments support projects that generate both social good and financial return to our communities,” Huddle said. “We believe that having opportunities that are more flexible than traditional grantmaking can expand MCCF’s ability to make an impact.”
The foundation then took the group on a tour through McPherson to showcase each of the impact investments that have been released into the community.
More on Impact Investing:
Impact Investing focuses on supporting local development opportunities throughout McPherson County. The Foundation has set aside funds that are distributed as loans rather than grants. These loans are repaid with interest over time, allowing the program to continue growing and supporting future projects by operating as a revolving resource. As loans are repaid, those funds will be reinvested into new organizations, businesses, and community initiatives.
The goal is to create investments that generate both financial and social returns. Every dollar invested through the program is intended to create meaningful impact within McPherson County communities. The Foundation anticipates a financial return of 3-5% to the McPherson County Impact Investment Change Makers Fund.
Those interested in pursuing an Impact Investment Loan should contact Michelle Huddle at Michelle@McPhersonFoundation.org for more information.