Heirs' property issues have long been a leading cause of involuntary land loss, particularly among Black families. With a new $750,000 multiyear grant from the U.S. Bank Foundation Opportunity Fund, LISC will work with community-based organizations in Cincinnati and Cleveland to provide families with estate planning, legal support and financial counseling that can help clear up clouded property titles and preserve homes for future generations.

Nikita Mathis, who started selling fashion from the trunk of her car before opening a boutique 20 years ago, and Talya Miller, who developed a love for cooking soul food during her years as an emergent care foster parent, are two women entrepreneurs whose drive and generosity serve as an inspiration to others in their South Seattle community. With support from the U.S. Bank Access Fund, LISC and our on-the ground partner – HomeSight – helped both business owners recover from the pandemic and position themselves for the new economy.