Recent Changes at Community Ventures

2017 marked the end of a 27 year affiliation between Community Ventures and Santa Cruz Community Credit Union (SCCCU). 

• What happened? The current community development environment for financial institutions is different than when the affiliation started. SCCCU needed to move in a new direction. Community Ventures recognizes their organizational needs and is committed to continue our role in innovating to ensure a new inclusive economy for all in the region. 
• Is SCCCU stills providing financial support? There is no continued financial commitment from SCCCU to Community Ventures as of December 31, 2017.
• Is Community Ventures an independent nonprofit? Yes, Community Ventures has an independent 501c3 status and Nonprofit Board. 
• What comes next? Community Ventures is excited about the opportunity to continue to innovate and grow for the benefit of our local economies. 
• How can I contact you? We continue to serve the region and can be reached via email at [email protected] or at PO BOX 7808, Santa Cruz, CA 95061
• What work are you doing now? Community Ventures is currently working on four pilot programs: 
  • 1) Moving Health Care Upstream: A health/wealth pilot to redefine healthcare to include financial coaching and universal children's college savings accounts as medical treatments
  • 2) Credit Bound: A lending circle model to build credit for young adults 
  • 3) Mamás con Más : A qualitative study in partnership with UCSC's Blum Center of how low-income Latina mothers use and see the financial and banking sector in the county
  • 4) Financial Capability Snapshot: A onetime survey analysis of key financial capability gaps for low-income families 
• What about VITA? We are working with Project SCOUT to support county VITA projects, including providing access to our interns and equipment. Community Ventures will host a few one day events for 2018 and will continue to advocate for changes in tax policy that increase EITC and credits for low-income families. 
• How can I help? Please donate and join our mailing list. And let us know if you are interested in having a conversation with you, your peers, and/or organizations you are involved with.