Committee Work:

Purpose

The Committee on Economic Development is to implement local efforts and support national programs that preserve and expand economic empowerment among African-Americans and other communities of color.

Strategies/Methodologies 

1. Researching and establishing relationships with private and public entities;
2. Supporting the work of the National Office in monitoring the progress and activity of private and public entities designated by national programs;
3. Implementing local efforts to promote the growth of business ownership; and
4. Increasing employment and job creation;
5. Encouraging business development and home ownership
6. Raising awareness of personal financial literacy

• Minnesota Dakota State NAACP economic programs goals/objectives;
• 1. Empower local communities with the necessary education, resources, and partnerships to develop sustainable economic models that advance diversity and equity.
  2. Ensure that government and industry are knowledgeable and committed to bridging racial inequality particular as it relates to employment, wealth, lending and business ownership.
  3. Grow a movement of concerned citizens and organizations who work together to produce an inclusive and strong middle class economy for the 21^st century

  National NAACP Economic Department Core Principles:

·         Enhancing the economic capacity of African Americans

·         Developing and distributing financial and economic education with a racial economic justice focus

·         Monitoring and reporting on financial banking practices

·         Supporting and fostering community asset development

·         Promoting diversity and inclusion in business hiring, career advancement and procurement

·         Funding and supporting a national Micrograntee Financial Campaign Uplifting Units (of NAACP) to do economic empowerment work within communities on the state and local level

In 2016 the Saint Paul Branch Economic Committee became the lead State Branch to assist Minnesota Dakota’s State economic committee with the 2016 Financial Fitness Campaign, the Micro-grant from the National economic department to bring a financial literacy in our area by providing a series economic education workshops.  Joining all the other NAACP State Conferences already trained to provide this economic empowerment and assistance to our local communities.

• (Total Attendance = 33)

• Understand what credit is and how to make it work for you. Learn about your credit score and credit report, and how to use credit cards and loans the smart way.

1. You and Your $ Workshop for high school juniors/seniors and college students – PRESENTED: April 23, Saturday @ Youth Services Saint Paul & August 31 @ Progressive Baptist Church

(Total Attendance = 28)

• Students will learn smart money management tools, how credit cards work and exploring ways on how to pay for college.

1. Buying a Home Workshop – PRESENTED: May 14, Saturday @ local Urban League & October 18, Tuesday @ Wilder Center

(Total Attendance = 25)

• The process of buying a home is easy to understand when you break it down step-by-step. Whether you’re dreaming of buying your first home or own a home now, this topic will help you to master all the financial aspects of homeownership.

The Required Financial Education Workshops Total Attendance for = 86

Presented One OPTIONAL WORKSHOP:

1. Small Business Workshop – Access to Capital Workshop – PRESENTED: March 29, Tuesday @ Friendship Academy Minneapolis (Total Attendance = 23)

• Presentation will include information on traditional and non-traditional loans

Mission:

The Committee on Economic Development shall implement local efforts and support national programs to preserve and expand economic empowerment among African-Americans and other communities of color by: