Newfound-sponsored RiseUp Fund Helps Philadelphia-Area Woman Achieve Homeownership

PHILADELPHIA–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Newfound, the nation’s largest one-stop-shop real estate brokerage platform, announced today it has helped another local woman achieve first-time homeownership through its sponsorship of the RiseUp Fund. RiseUp, an independent, federally-chartered nonprofit organization created by Newfound, provides a clear path toward homeownership for underserved families through education, financial assistance, and empowerment.

Ms. T. R.  from Crum Lynne, PA was able to purchase a home in the Greater Philadelphia region with the help of a combined $11,500 in contributions from the RiseUp Fund and its partner organizations ESSA Bank & Trust, Achievability, and American Heritage Federal Credit Union. Ms. R. had little or no out-of-pocket costs to close on her home and stated, “Working with RiseUp and Achievability, my homebuying process went really smoothly, I felt supported every step of the way, and now I get to start on the fun stuff, decorating and making this home my own.”

Newfound, a certified B Corporation since 2016 and the first B Corporation real estate brokerage in the world, is dedicated to giving back to the communities in which it serves. Through its preferred non-profit, the RiseUp Fund, the company donates $100 to the fund for every home it helps its clients buy or sell with 100% of those funds supporting eligible families with homebuyer grants and programs.

Using the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) classification as defined by the United Way, RiseUp serves low-to-moderate-income individuals and families who need financial help to secure their own home. Awards are based upon demonstrated financial need, geography, and successful completion of a HUD-certified homebuyer education seminar. All programs are offered in Philadelphia and surrounding counties free of charge.

“By reaching out across private, public, and non-profit partnerships, we can accomplish so much more for so many more people desiring home ownership. We are grateful for partners like ESSA Bank & Trust, who sponsored this $5000 grant, to help low-to-moderate income families purchase their first home,” said Dr. Suzanne Garber, CEO of the RiseUp Fund. Jamila Harris-Morrison, Executive Director of Achievability, echoed that sentiment, “ACHIEVEability is proud to partner with RiseUp to help Black residents realize their dreams of home ownership and build generational wealth.” Bruce Foulke, CEO of American Heritage Federal Credit Union also  agreed, “We are happy to support our local community members in achieving the dream of home ownership, thanks to great organizations like RiseUp.”

The RiseUp Fund offers a host of education, counseling, and mentoring programs to set up traditionally underserved populations for successful homeownership long after the purchase of their first home. Ms. T. R. will have access to a HUD-certified mentor to support her during this important transition period from renter to homeowner.

To apply for one of the RiseUp programs or become a partner in the Fund, please visit www.riseupfund.org.