Joe Evans is the Social Investment Practice’s portfolio director and social investment officer. In his role, he manages the portfolio of loans, guarantees, deposits and equity investments that support Kresge’s mission. He also originates social investments that support the Environment Program’s strategy around building the climate finance ecosystem.

Evans joined the foundation in 2014. Before joining Kresge, he worked for more than a decade as a generalist with a nationally recognized consulting firm practicing in organizational development, nonprofit business planning, social investing and multi-funder initiatives.

“Through that work, I had a bird’s eye view of several key developments in community finance that galvanized an industry and were initiated, supported or scaled through private foundations,” Evans said. “I apply that experience in service to Kresge’s ambitious goals, thoughtful strategies and commitment to leveraging market mechanisms to expand opportunities in America’s cities.”

Evans also served as an executive at a community action agency and, most recently, was the director of lending for a specialty Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) focused on expanding housing and educational choices for persons living with disabilities and their families.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, Conn.

Photo: Ryan Southen