One of the keys to Manna's success over the years has been the Capstone Fund. The Capstone Fund is Manna's revolving loan fund that provides working capital for Manna's many projects. The Fund largely consists of low interest loans (0-3%) from socially responsible investors, individuals, foundations churches, and many religious orders. Nuns have always served a vital role in communities across the world- helping to feed and clothe the poor, nurse the sick and educate children. These days they're doing all of that and putting their money where their mouth is. Currently, Manna has 5 different orders of sisters (aka nuns) with loans in the Fund.
One such order is the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia. Apparently, not only are they interested in socially responsible investing but, as I discovered reading on NPR's website today, hold shares in McDonalds and are using their status as shareholders to ask the company what it is doing about childhood obesity. And as part of the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility, the order is also working to ensure that BP is held accountable for the effects of last year's oil spill. These women are dedicated to maintaining the the core virtues of their religious life but using 21st century tools to get the job done.
At Manna, we have been lucky and blessed to have the support of all our Capstone Investors. Apparently we aren't alone!
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