UPDATE: In our original recording, we mistakenly referred to Caroline Poles as Caroline Rompré. We have changed the story to correct this error
Almost ten years after its founding, Parc Extension’s Brique Par Brique wants to expand. To do so, it’s looking to leverage community support through a tool called the community bond.
Since 2016, Brique Par Brique has supported the largely low-income, immigrant community in Parc Ex through cultural programming, town halls, and mutual aid. But they’ve also been developing affordable housing in the neighbourhood, with community bonds: a form of investment from supporters who believe in their mission.
Community bonds offer individuals the chance to invest in a nonprofit instead of donating. Though investors’ returns are often below market, they make a big difference in helping community groups take on big projects, say experts.
CKUT speaks to Brique Par Brique’s Faiz Abhuani, as well as Émeline Le Guen and Caroline Poles behind the community-bond fund “L’ampli,” about the social economy tool.
