CDFA's New Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Commitment

The Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) was proud to work with local and regional partners to bring the Community Navigator Pilot Program to New Hampshire. Now CDFA has introduced a new Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) statement, reflecting our ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation, and economic opportunity through inclusive practices. This initiative aligns with our mission to build vibrant and equitable communities throughout all of New Hampshire.

CDFA's DEI Commitment

The core of our DEI commitment is to drive innovation and collaboration by engaging with partners from diverse backgrounds. We believe that diversity enriches our perspectives and enhances our ability to serve the community effectively. By continuing to focusing on equity, we aim to uplift historically marginalized groups and ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.

Here are the principles guiding our DEI approach:

Relationship-Centered Approach: We prioritize building and nurturing relationships with diverse communities and stakeholders. By fostering open and inclusive partnerships, we aim to bridge different experiences, build empathy, and amplify community voices.

Community Engagement and Input: We are dedicated to ensuring that impacted communities have meaningful opportunities to provide feedback at every stage of our programs and initiatives. Centering community voices in our decision-making processes is crucial to achieving equitable outcomes.

Accessibility and Transparency: Clear communication, transparent processes, and removing barriers to access are fundamental to our operations. We continually challenge our assumptions, reflect on our actions, and hold ourselves accountable to our stakeholders.

Prioritizing Equity: Our goal is to prioritize and uplift those who have historically been marginalized or excluded from decision-making processes. We aim to keep investments—whether financial, informational, or otherwise—within the communities we serve.

Cultural Competency and Learning: We commit to deepening our understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives. This involves challenging biases, reflecting on norms and behaviors, and committing to ongoing learning and growth. We also seek to diversify our boards, committees, advisors, and staff.

Amplifying Community Issues: We pledge to be leaders in advancing DEI principles within our organization and beyond. Our commitment includes advocacy, education, and collaboration to influence positive change and promote equity and justice in our communities.

Moving Forward

Our approach to development finance is now even more robust with the integration of these DEI principles. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to contribute to our shared mission of building thriving communities across New Hampshire.

By implementing these principles, CDFA is not just committing to DEI in theory but embedding these values into our practices and long-term strategies. We believe that through this commitment, we will better serve our communities and foster a more equitable and just society.

For more information on our DEI initiatives or to get involved, please visit our website or contact our office directly.