"I’ll long cherish my visits with Doug during my tenure as CDFI Fund Director. Clearinghouse CDFI stood out then, and it continues to be a leader in reaching underserved markets. Congratulations!"
Donna Gambrell
President & CEO, Appalachian Community Capital
"When I think of leadership qualities, I think of Doug—focus, drive, preparedness, and, above all, a big heart. Doug’s vision was to take chances on deserving borrowers while managing risk for investors. He and his team grew a one-person operation in a tiny suite into a thriving, impactful financial institution. Congratulations on 25 years!"
Trinh LeCong Retterer
Former Executive Director, Affordable Housing Clearinghouse
"I think Doug is one of the great business leaders in America today. With unique skill he fuses compassion with profitability, prudence with the risk taking of a river boat gambler, and long-term success without overlooking the problems of the day. I’m tired, but proud to be on his team!"
Jay Harrison
Chief investment Officer, Clearinghouse CDFI
"Though Doug is an icon and leader in the CDFI industry, it is his passion and undying commitment to creating stronger communities across America that drives his work and makes him a man beyond measure."
Martina Guilfoil
President & CEO, Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise
"It has been my privilege to have known Doug for nearly 30 years. His personality and style are a big reason for his success, and I greatly admire his vision and tenacity. But most admirable is his dedication to helping people, with honesty and hard work. Keep up the fantastic job. God bless you, your family, and your team! I am so proud of you and to call you my friend.”
Grace Napolitano
"Doug Bystry is a true leader in the community development space. I met Doug in 2004, and he has been my Go-To person for all-things CDFI related. He’s not only smart, but fun and inspiring. Here’s to another 25, Doug!"
Rob Wasserman
Managing Director, Huntington National Bank
“In addition to being a terrific President & CEO, Doug Bystry is a visionary and a true optimist. These qualities have proven invaluable to leading the company forward for 25 years.“
Terrin ENssle
Chief Financial Officer, Clearinghouse CDFI
"My acquaintance with Doug began decades ago with visits at CDFI and NMTC conferences, and climaxed with Clearinghouse providing financing into our Paul Quinn College project in Dallas (funding that six banks had declined to provide). This funding was project saving. Maximum congratulations to Doug on an impactful twenty-five year run!"
Victor j. elmore, CPA, CGMA
President & CEO, Texas Mezzanine Fund
"Doug is innovative, charismatic, and has dedicated a lifetime to economic and community development, lifting so many communities. He truly has made a difference in our world. What an inspiration!"
Susan McDevitt
Executive Director, Mary Erickson Community Housing
"Doug has amazingly and masterfully managed the Clearinghouse through 9-11, the Dot.com Crash to the Great Recession, COVID-19, to the Great Resignation, while raising a family at the same time."
Tim Johnson
County Administrator, Lincoln County, Oregon
"Doug has amazingly and masterfully managed the Clearinghouse through 9-11, the Dot.com Crash to the Great Recession, COVID-19, to the Great Resignation, while raising a family at the same time."
Tim Johnson
County Administrator, Lincoln County, Oregon
"Today, as we see more disenfranchised and communities of color fighting to overcome poverty, lost jobs, and neighborhood deterioration, we find a champion like Doug Bystry. He pushes to make investments that help people and change lives in our economically disadvantaged communities. He does it without hesitation and with a passion to turn around troubled communities. With his leadership at Clearinghouse CDFI, Doug sets an example for others to follow."
Alan Woo
Santa Ana Unidos and City Planning Commissioner
"Doug is the kind of person that within a few minutes of meeting him you feel like you’re fast friends and that he understands what you do and the importance of your contribution to the work"
Melody Winter Head
Retired, Federal Reserve, Bank of San Francisco
"Over many years watching Doug build Clearinghouse CDFI into one of the preeminent financial players in the Community Development arena, the words that come to mind regarding his stewardship are Bold, Integrity, and Compassion. Bold—because Doug has always had the courage to test new waters, whether that be NMTCs, Bond Financing, expansions, or mergers; and because Doug has often told me that he wants a Board that challenges and questions him and his executive team.'
"Integrity and compassion because Doug sets a tone and high standard that permeates Clearinghouse CDFI, with thought toward doing what is right, transparent, and meets the mission with care."
Alva Diaz
SVP, Community Lending & Investment, Credit risk Well Fargo Bank
"My husband, Alan Orechwa, had the privilege of being associated with Clearinghouse CDFI and Doug Bystry, since 1996. In the Company’s 20th year, Alan said that he had chosen to remain involved with Clearinghouse CDFI because it was “the most satisfying job I have ever had in terms of seeing a positive social impact from virtually every transaction.” Working with CCDFI, Doug Bystry, and all associated with the Company, including borrowers, was so professionally and personally rewarding to Alan, and…so much fun.
Doug’s insight, enthusiasm, and dedication to the mission of CCDFI were infectious. He has been the chief facilitator of what if, why not, how to, who best to, and never quit attitudes possessed by CCDFI employees, board members, partners, and friends. Doug accomplished this with an appreciation for what everyone associated with the Company had to o er, and he made sure that CCDFI employees and associates were able to contribute their best no matter the circumstances.
Doug is not only a great President/CEO for Clearinghouse CDFI, he is an even better friend.
Congratulations, CCDFI and Doug Bystry for 30 years of success, and here’s to another 30 years!”
Doris (and Alan) Orechwa
"Doug is a visionary and has a heart to help those that live in the communities we serve. It has been a pleasure to work by his side for so many years."
Kathy Bonney
Chief Administrative officer, Clearinghouse CDFI
"I have known Doug Bystry for close to 28 years since he took over a troubled housing program in my neighborhood and turned it around. Our neighborhood was often neglected by the city and residents faced challenges with financial institutions."
"Doug's support, encouragement, and advocacy for our community needs was transformative and created a foundation of trust. He has been a friend of Artesia Pillar and supports our Little League and other community organizations."
Ruby Gonzales Woo
President of the Artesia Pillar, Neighborhood Association
“Doug is strong, wise, charismatic, and joyful. His generous, honest spirit and untiring commitment to the public well-being inspire fresh thought and unique action that positively supports social and economic justice.”
Andy Gordon
CCDFI executive advisor, colleague and friend since before inception of CCDFi
"Doug is one of the worst kept secrets in the CRA world. Over a dozen years ago when I became a CRA O cer, Doug was my first call. When I retire, he will probably be my last call."
Bruce Gumbiner
SVP, Risk Manager & CRA officer, American business bank
