In addition to helping community development corporations finance their projects, LISC helps make the groups more efficient and productive through training programs and learning opportunities for their staff and leadership. LISC also uses a federally funded national service program to place volunteers at community development corporations (CDCs), where they perform service and gain community development experience that prepares them for careers in the field.
- Recognizing that an organization is as strong as its people, LISC has pioneered professional networking conferences designed exclusively for the needs, issues, and interests of community development professionals. Through peer to peer networking, sessions on emerging issues by some of the top experts in the field, and practical information that participants can immediately use when they go home, LISC aims to support the continued learning and development of CDC professionals.
- AmeriCorps members are engaged in community service projects related to affordable housing, community organizing, and after-school activities for under-achieving students. In conjunction with local LISC offices across the country, LISC AmeriCorps members are matched with community development corporations to implement plans that respond to community needs. Since 1994, the program has enrolled more than 1,000 members in 15 cities from Boston to Los Angeles.
