Company History

In 1992 the Susquehanna Valley Community Development Loan Fund was founded by economic development leader James W. Hyson and a faith-based coalition of community leaders who recognized the need for capital access in underserved communities. In 1996 the name was changed to Community First Fund and since then it has become the premier economic development organization serving central Pennsylvania.

Community First Fund has more than 15 years experience in providing loans, business training, and one-on-one counseling to entrepreneurs of all sizes, affordable housing and commercial real estate developers, and community groups in under-served communities in central Pennsylvania. With offices in Lancaster, York, Harrisburg, Reading, and Exton, Community First Fund serves 13 counties in Central Pennsylvania and has closed more than 650 loans exceeding $19 million.

Community First Fund is a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), an SBA guaranteed lender, and has received a high rating by the CDFI Assessment Rating System (CARS®). Community First Fund’s work creates community impact and a positive economic effect that is set into motion each time a loan is made.  Increased opportunities arise from these loans, rippling throughout an entire community — creating jobs, generating income, and enabling home-ownership.  The culmination of these opportunities leads to lasting economic growth and prosperity.

Our Mission

Community First Fund creates lasting economic growth for our communities by providing equitable financial services, technical knowledge, and advocacy for its customers.

Our Vision

Community First Fund envisions a future where opportunities for economic prosperity are available to everyone in the communities we serve.

Leadership

To view information on Community First Fund leadership, please click here.  

Core Values

Equity: Community First Fund advocates and supports initiatives that create access for equitable economic opportunities in our communities.

Justice: Community First Fund is dedicated to the promotion of economic and social justice in order to improve the quality of life for our communities.

Permanence: Community First Fund continuously improves its business model to ensure sustainability of our services.

Commitment: Community First Fund is dedicated to superior customer service for clients.

Excellence: Community First Fund is dedicated to maintaining a highly effective organization by fostering professional development for employees.