Elsie Wong

Why do you do what you do?

I have been in the community banking and lending space for all my career. I love what I do because I get to see how access to capital transforms lives.

What drew you to the foundation?

I was drawn to the foundation because of the mission, to promote racial equality and economic inclusion so that everyone can reach their fullest potential. These values resonate with me as an immigrant to this country and having benefited from the same Bay Area communities and resources that helped our family realize our American dream. I get to be on the other side now. 

How would you describe your role?

I manage the foundation’s Program-Related Investments (PRIs), including the Bay Area Community Impact Fund. Our investments help address critical housing shortages, create and retain jobs, and promote sustainable communities in the Bay Area. I perform due diligence on new investments to ensure credit quality and impact, closely monitor our PRI portfolio, and report results to our PRI Committee, staff, and donors.

What inspires you?

I am inspired by my mom and dad, who brought my sister and me to the United States for freedom of choice, voice, and opportunity. From a life of stay-at-home mom and business owner dad in our home country, my parents gave it up to move to a land my mom never stepped foot on, to 12-hour workdays, with an 8- and 5-year-old in tow. For their resilience and continued sacrifices, I am inspired and grateful for the life I have.