Non-Traditional

Investing “Outside the Box”

While so many of our borrowers exhibit innovative behavior, not all of them fit neatly into our sectors. That’s why we have a small sector devoted to “non-traditional” investments – projects and organizations that are doing important work for the greater good, but that might not categorize neatly. Investments in this sector include independent public media and organizations that are doing important work in their communities, but are not necessarily finance institutions or nonprofits.

Motivated by Social Change

Social enterprises are businesses motivated more by public and social good than by the need for personal profit. These organizations create jobs and build up communities, while acting in an environmentally responsible way and safeguarding the well being of their employees. Social enterprises are businesses that accomplish social goals in innovative ways.

Social enterprises have unique needs, which we have adjusted some of our lending criteria to meet, such as patient, long-term capital, increased level of service, and Examples of social enterprises in our portfolio include Equal Exchange, Evergreen Lodge, Rubicon, and more.

Books Take Little Readers to New Worlds

The First Book Marketplace is an online bookstore exclusively available to programs serving children from low-income families. First Book, a member of Calvert Foundation’s social enterprise portfolio, makes books available to organizations at affordable prices. Said one parent of a First book recipient: “I want my son to be a good reader. It’s hard for us to go places because I don’t have a lot of money, but when we read together the books take us special places, exciting places, places we can dream about.”

© Photo courtesy of First Book

Rebuilding the Gulf Coast

Three years have passed since Hurricanes Katrina and Rita ravaged the Gulf Coast, destroying homes and displacing communities. Support from caring individuals around the world have helped rebuilding efforts, but there is still much to be done.

Serenity Davenport's home in Abbeyville, LA was destroyed by floods following Hurricane Rita. Thanks to Calvert Foundation partner Southern Mutual Help Association, Serenity and her daughter now have a safe place to live once again. Calvert Foundation's Gulf Coast Recovery Initiative makes it possible for investors to invest directly in ongoing recovery efforts. Your investment or donation provides affordable loans to carefully vetted, highly effective organizations rebuilding homes and businesses in the Gulf Coast region.

You can use the power of investment to support rebuilding efforts in the Gulf Coast. By investing as little as $1,000 in the Gulf Coast Recovery Note, you can make a real difference in people's lives. Help residents with more than just homes; your investment also builds schools, businesses and essential community facilities. Talk to your financial advisor or call us at 800.248.0337. You earn a modest return (up to 2%) while making a big impact on communities that need your help.

> Profiles of all Calvert Foundation borrowers