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❆ Local Social rescheduled for next week ❆

Our first Local Social of 2023 has been postponed due to the snowstorm in the forecast. Join us instead next Thursday, March 9, at 5:30 p.m. at Bayberry Beer Hall at 381 West Fountain Street in Providence. We'll drink local, talk about local economies, and toast community investment. Our Local Socials are very casual, and everyone is welcome! Email jessica@localreturn.org for more information.

What matters to you?

Investing in your community starts with where your dollars are deposited. Choosing a local bank is one of the easiest ways to support our local economy.

That's why we're getting ready for Move Your Money Month, also known as April. And we're looking for a few good spokespeople to help us spread the message.

Do you value doing business with your neighbors? Appreciate that local banks loan to local businesses, support local charities, and keep their money circulating in the local economy?

Take just a few minutes to tell us why it's important to you to keep your money with a local bank or credit union. We'll be sharing quotes during the month of April through our communications channels.

Tell us now: Why do you bank local?

Shop Black-owned (not just in February!)

(Image via Shop Indie Local)

This February, Local Return joined many partners around the U.S. to support Black-owned businesses. Every month is a good one to choose Black-owned businesses. If you're looking for inspiration we've compiled a list of a few of Rhode Island's Black-owned businesses that have been shouted out by friends of Local Return.

Together, we can build stronger local economies that are diverse, inclusive, and equitable.

#ShopBlackOwned

Community investment volunteers needed!

With support from the National Coalition for Community Capital and Cutting Edge Counsel, Local Return is establishing a Diversified Community Investment Fund. A community investment is owned by local investors, to improve local neighborhoods.

There are a lot of details involved and to make this a reality, we're forming volunteer workgroups to support the board over the next few months. If you've got expertise and interest to share in any of the following topics, contact Jessica David:

Community Engagement
Investor Outreach
Process and Operations
Communications and Marketing

It takes a community!

Your financial support allows us to pursue our mission to build community wealth in Rhode Island through ownership and investment, particularly in neighborhoods that have experienced historical disinvestment. Learn more about our mission, team, and ways to get involved.

Thank you for your ❤️ and ⚓️!

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