LISC Recognized as a 2023 “Gamechanger to Watch” by CohnReznick

11.20.2023 - Press Releases

LISC named a 2023 ESG “Gamechanger to Watch” by CohnReznick

NEW YORK (Nov. 3, 2023) - LISC is one of seven organizations selected as a “Gamechanger to Watch” by CohnReznick in its second annual Gamechangers in ESG Awards program, reflecting the critical role LISC plays in building more inclusive, equitable and just communities of opportunity in the U.S. CohnReznick offered this recognition to top scoring companies, showcasing the way CDFIs like LISC lead across each dimension of ESG through the deployment of catalytic community capital.

As one of the country’s largest community development organizations, LISC leverages public, private and philanthropic capital to catalyze economic opportunity for people and communities. LISC invests across asset classes and impact themes, including affordable housing, education, nutritious food and healthcare, creative placemaking, small businesses and more. LISC’s work fights systemic racism and aims to create more equitable access to capital.

CohnReznick took note of LISC’s holistic approach to ESG in the way LISC advances equity through housing access. Investing in affordable housing mitigates the effects of gentrification and provides pathways to homeownership (the “S” in ESG). However, knowing that people and communities of color are more likely to be affected by climate change and extreme weather, LISC pairs housing loans with climate justice activities such as green jobs training, heat action planning and financing to support solar panel installation (the “E” in ESG). These initiatives are led by LISC’s diverse leadership and staff, all part of strong internal and external governance standards that center DEIJ (the “G” in ESG). LISC knows that community partners and residents can’t thrive if just one area of need is being met.

“We are truly impressed by the caliber of applications that we received for the 2023 Gamechangers in ESG Awards program,” said David Kessler, CohnReznick CEO. “As our firm continues to prioritize sustainable business practices both internally and through client service offerings, it is inspiring to learn about the multitude of ways that companies, not-for-profits and students are changing the game through innovation, sustainability strategies and noteworthy corporate citizenship. By sharing their stories, we hope that others will be inspired to incorporate and advance sustainability principles in their organization as well. To this year’s winners, congratulations on behalf of CohnReznick – you are exemplars of changing the game through ESG.”

The CohnReznick Gamechangers in ESG Awards program recognizes U.S.-based organizations that are embracing environmental, social and governance principles to drive value for their stakeholders and improve business resiliency. There is also a NextGen Award for a student who demonstrates a commitment to incorporating the principles of ESG into their education and career path.

About LISC

LISC is one the country’s largest community development organizations, helping forge vibrant, resilient communities across America. We work with residents and partners to close systemic gaps in health, wealth and opportunity and advance racial equity so that people and local economies can thrive. Since our founding, LISC has invested $29.7 billion to create more than 489,261 affordable homes and apartments, developing 81.5 million square feet of retail, community and educational space.

About CohnReznick

CohnReznick LLP is one of the leading advisory, assurance and tax firms in the United States. The Gamechangers in ESG Awards program recognizes U.S.-based organizations that are embracing environmental, social and governance principles to drive value for their stakeholders and improve business resiliency. There is also a NextGen Award for a student who demonstrates a commitment to incorporating the principles of ESG into their education and career path.