At Justine PETERSEN, we believe in the power of partnership to create lasting change. The Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) plays a vital role in ensuring financial institutions invest in the communities they serve—especially those that are underserved or low-to-moderate income. We are proud to honor and celebrate banks like Carrollton Bank and Midwest BankCentre, whose unwavering commitment to CRA goals has helped fuel our mission. Through their generous support, we are able to provide essential services, funding, and resources to individuals and families striving for financial empowerment. Hearing firsthand from our clients and funders was a powerful reminder of the collective impact we’re making—together.

The Community Reinvestment Act (CRA), enacted in 1977, encourages federally insured banks and financial institutions to actively support the credit needs of the communities where they operate—particularly in low- and moderate-income (LMI) neighborhoods—while maintaining sound financial practices. Under the CRA, federal banking regulators are responsible for evaluating how well these institutions serve their entire community. These evaluations are also considered when institutions apply for new branches or other deposit-related facilities.

The Facts

Source: Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC), Community Reinvestment Act.