NEW: RI LISC Executive Director Barbara Fields Tapped By Obama to Lead Regional HUD Office
Friday, February 18, 2011
During Fields’ tenure, Rhode Island LISC (Local Initiatives Support Corporation) grew from a single person operation to, a local leader in housing and community development. In 2010 the organization invested more than $17 million in communities throughout Rhode Island. Most recently, Fields led the organization as it expand its scope beyond housing and commercial developments into a more comprehensive approach to community development which included public safety, child care and workforce development.
The vision to build strong, vibrant communities
“Barbara had the vision to see what it takes to build strong, vibrant communities,” said Jeanne Cola, Rhode Island LISC chair and Senior Vice President at Citizens Bank. “Her holistic approach and her ability as a leader to bring stakeholders together and get results has improved the lives of thousands of Rhode Islanders.”
“We will miss her at LISC,” Cola added.
Achievements while at LISC
Under Fields’ leadership, LISC has also been a key partner in youth programming, child care and community safety efforts. In the Olneyville neighborhood of Providence, the LISC program has earned national recognition from the U.S. Department of Justice. During her 20-year tenure, LISC has made equity investments of nearly $180 million in multifamily housing and over $30 million in economic development across Rhode Island. These investments have funded numerous affordable housing developments and neighborhood revitalization projects across the state.
LISC has also provided funding and leadership for the highly regarded “Our Neighborhoods” program in Providence and Woonsocket, which is celebrating its first anniversary in March 2011. A wide-ranging approach to community revitalization, the “Our Neighborhoods” initiative includes housing, public safety, environmental work, health clinics, schools, arts, youth programming, and business development.
Rhode Island LISC recently announced over $500,000 in funding for Family Success Centers and Financial Opportunity Centers to help more than 450 families find jobs, reduce debt, gain financial literacy and build assets.
Leaving an impressive legacy
“Barbara is leaving an impressive legacy and a sound foundation for LISC here in Rhode Island,” said Cola. “As we enter our 20th year, we wish her well, and appreciate what she has done to prepare us for another 20 years of success.”
