Based on the premise that there is a significant link between crime, violence, drugs, gang involvement and quality of life, the FMCRC is an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for low-income and minority communities in Florida. Understanding that these communities are often unheard in major policy debates, FMCRC works to ensure that their needs are addressed proactively and positively. This diverse coalition actively represents their interests with major corporations, educational institutions, special interest associations, and government officials.

Its strategy revolves around six central programs and projects:
1. Leadership development and education;
2. Community reinvestment into minority organizations and communities;
3. Sustainable development;
4. Campaign finance reform;
5. Health and consumer protection;
6. Home ownership/literacy education for minorities.

Mission Statement:
To empower low-income and minority communities by attracting investments for health, education, home ownership, employment, and minority entrepreneurship using a holistic advocacy approach.

Purpose:
To identify market-based growth opportunities in minority communities through research, education, policy development/advocacy and programs that will lead to a paradigm shift in the approach to inner-city community economic development.

The coalition strives to influence institutional practices around the following key principles:
1. Financial investments in minority housing, education, health, and businesses
2. Diversity at all levels
3. Supplier diversity/minority business contacting
4. Philanthropy (goal of 2% of pretax profits) for minority communities
5. Fairly priced products and services
6. Corporate responsibility, including executive compensation
7. Language appropriate services
8. Financial investments led by minority community development organizations

However, much work remains to be done. Notwithstanding the efforts that have been made, the home ownership gap for minorities is prominent in Florida. Business lending and contracting to minority-owned firms is still an issue of concern, and predatory lending in minority neighborhoods still exists.

Contact Information:
Florida Minority Community Reinvestment Coalition (FMCRC)
Al Pina, Chair
2302 West St. Louis Avenue
Tampa, Florida 33607
(813) 391-4628
Vortega@fmcrc.org
www.fmrc.org