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Benjamin Cyprien
Finance Specialist

Benjamin is a dedicated finance professional from Montgomery County, Maryland, committed to giving back to his local community. Currently, he plays a crucial role at Nest DC, where he handles financial responsibilities and assists property owners and tenants with various billing and statement inquiries.

Beyond his professional contributions, Benjamin is deeply committed to social and economic justice. He is a proud member of the birdSeed organization, where he actively works to close the racial wealth gap by supporting historically disadvantaged communities in their quest for homeownership. His passion for this cause reflects his belief in empowering Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) communities.

Benjamin has instilled in him a profound sense of responsibility to uplift those around him, and he consistently demonstrates this commitment through his work and community involvement. His dedication to financial excellence and community betterment exemplify his unwavering commitment to positive change and social impact.

About

Our housing justice program offers down payment grants to qualifying BIPOC first time home buying residents in the DC and Philadelphia areas. Awards range from $5,000 to $15,000 and grants are made multiple times per year until funds are expended.

The application/review process is straight forward and uncomplicated.

Our Board of Advisors reviews applications, interviews finalists and identifies grantees. This is a partnership with the Greater Washington Community Foundation who supports the administrative complexity so we can very simply help people buy homes. *

Applicants must identify as one of the following: American Indian, Indigenous, Alaska Native, Asian, Pacific Islander, Black, African American, Hispanic or Latinix birdSEED has made 29 provisional grants to date. The total grant pool available was $215,000. Additional funds have been raised from supportive community members who shared our vision of simple, no strings financial down payment grants that accelerate the home buying process. If you are positioned to give, please do. Needs are great, resources are limited and your help is essential.

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