What if I told you that, just as there are renewable energy sources, there is a renewable financial resource — and it’s already quietly making progress possible? Impact investing, which generates financial returns alongside positive social change, is proving a valuable tool for spurring large scale, inclusive economic growth and creating income and wealth for residents. Impact investments can take the form of low-interest loans, venture capital or municipal bond investments, for example, all with the goal of addressing critical social needs.

Few things impact us more deeply than the powerful photos and heart-wrenching stories of those devastated by natural disasters. Since they are typically geographically focused, community foundation know the best way to get donations where they are immediately needed — whether it be for medical supplies, shelter, food or unexpected needs brought on by the disaster. They can get money out rapidly to vetted nonprofits who can provide targeted and much-needed assistance to their community.