The focus of this report is an analysis of changes in home buying in the Chicago area among different income groups.  We compared buyers in 1993 and 1994 (combined) to those in 1999 and 2000 (combined).

This report examines the extent to which neighborhoods within the Chicago area have obtained significant levels of income and racial diversity in home buying and maintained such diversity over the 1990s.  To do so, we compared compositions of buyers in neighborhoods across the metro area in 1993 and 1994 (combined) to those in 1999 and 2000 (combined).

Katy Jacob, Malcolm Bush, and Daniel Immergluck

This report examines the reality of credit unions' claim that they honor the mission stated in the Federal Credit Union Act to meet the savings and credit needs of "persons of modest means." The report also discusses why it is so important that credit unions fulfill this statutory responsibility and how they might do so more effectively in the future.

Describes historical impact of secondary capital investments on low-income credit unions. Includes detailed case studies of four credit unions that are recipients of secondary capital investments. Offers policy recommendations related to the effectiveness of this investment tool.

Utilizing extensive data analysis, this alert shows how community development banks have grown in size and financial strength while at the same time serving their community development mission.

Shows that community development (CD) banks far outperform regular banks in serving low-income and minority communities. Includes extensive data analysis which describes the performance of banks in Chicago. Demonstrates that a considerably higher percent of CD banks' home loans go to lower-income neighborhoods and borrowers than is true for all other lenders. The same pattern is repeated for loans to minority neighborhoods and borrowers.

Demonstrates that banks with a commitment to reach unbanked or under-banked households can do so effectively and efficiently. The report profiles programs and services at Banco Popular de Puerto Rico, Union Bank of California, First Bank of the Americas in Chicago, First Interstate Bank in Montana and Wyoming, and Wells Fargo Bank Wisconsin. These banks provide affordable checking or lifeline accounts, innovative financial literacy programs, and creative outreach and marketing strategies.