PHOTO Move-in day at the Somali Bantu Community Association's headquarters in Lewiston, purchased with Genesis Fund financing. Photo credit: Sun Journal
Mortgage Loan for More Space - Lewiston, ME
Ownership Helps Association Expand Service
The need was clear for the Somali Bantu Community Association: it had to replace cramped, leased office space in order to hire additional staff, expand community services, and otherwise grow.
Founded in 2005, the association reaches more than 2,000 clients annually with translation and interpretation assistance, and guidance on navigating the healthcare system, IRS filing, immigration paperwork, and homeownership.
Community members consistently report that its programming improves their physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being.
A Genesis mortage loan helped buy a building with a reception area, large conference room, kitchenette, private offices, and parking—headquarters that are six-times larger than the former office and within walking distance of many of the 3,000 members of the local Somali Bantu community.
Less than one year after move-in day, the association hired three new staff members. Executive Director Muhidin Libah says headquarters is now “the go-to space” for services and community building.
