Bank of America’s Mid-Atlantic Regional President, Bill Couper, led off the program by announcing that Dr. Tsehaye Teferra, President of ECDC and EDG, is to be a recipient of the 2006 Greater Washington Neighborhood Excellence Award. Dr. Tefarra’s shared EDG’s history and heritage with the audience. His remarks were followed by a presentation by Michael Frias, Community Affairs Officer at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), on the growing influence of immigrant populations within the banking industry and how banks can better serve these valuable populations.
EDG Director Drew Tulchin gave an overview of EDG’s products and services including introductions of the EDG clients in attendance. (Click here for a copy of the presentation) Mr. Tulchin stressed the tremendous importance of microlending and other financial services for low-income and immigrant populations which make up one fifth of the region’s population. Attendees were encouraged to become involved with EDG’s work in 2007 to expand the scope of existing efforts and bring about future activities. A Menu for Involvement in 2007 is available here.
EDG was pleased and grateful to receive financial support for the breakfast from a range of sponsoring institutions. Special thanks goes to Bank of America for serving as host and lead sponsor.
Bronze Sponsors 
