Voices of investors
Investing in Common Ground Against Homelessness suits all kinds of people who have an ethical outlook on how they manage their capital. Whether you're sitting on savings that earn little to no interest in the bank, or you just want to do something good with your bit of money rather than simply donate it, you can find Common Ground with like-minded people.
Below are the views of real investors who have made the lives of street homeless people more secure by putting their money into our projects.
Valerie is a retired Hospital Administrator who lives near Perth
"This gives me satisfaction at doing something useful with my money and I feel included and empowered."
From a financial perspective, why did you choose to invest in CGAH / Rowan Alba's share offer?
I had taken an interest in the work of Rowan Alba on hearing about it from a friend. I was especially impressed by their inclusive approach: it seemed to me they took on men who had so little hope. I was very interested to hear that Rowan Alba were to take up a model of offering shares to investors, not least that it seemed in keeping with their broad and innovative approach to their work. On speaking to those working for RA (now Common Ground) I felt very enthusiastic to be able to be part of their work, and to be part of what I think is such an exciting and forwarding thinking way to raise money. I particularly like the fact that I will have some control over my investment, and especially that there are pathways for me to re-invest any interest made if I choose. So – this interesting model not only gives me satisfaction at doing something useful with my money, but also I feel included and empowered.
What do you think is most important about Rowan Alba's work?
What I think is the most important element of Rowan Alba/Common Ground’s work is the courage shown by them in stepping forward into what is known to be one of the most difficult areas of charitable work – homelessness coupled with and perhaps caused by addiction – and giving a chance to these men of a home with no conditions laid down, and no requirement to prove they are “housing ready”. Not only that, but the home offered is on the basis of tenancy and one which holds the possibility of building a community, and the men being involved in the management of the home. The fact that the home includes the provision of three meals a day and 24 hour support staff is remarkable, and hugely inspiring. I greatly admire the people who have worked so hard to build Rowan Alba/Common Ground: they are an absolute inspiration and the finest example of commitment, courage, vision, expertise, and belief in compassionate humanity.
"I want to put my money where my beliefs lie. This investment helps the community in which I live."
From a financial perspective, why did you choose to invest in CGAH / Rowan Alba's share offer?
I decided to invest in Common Ground as I am at a stage in life where I can afford to put my money where my beliefs lie. I own my flat which has massively increased in value due to property becoming an investment and not just a home. Investing in this helps the community in which I live and if I decide not to take the interest it returns the same as it does in a bank account.
What do you think is most important about Rowan Alba's work?
Working with Rowan Alba helps those who are otherwise forgotten or discarded in society's pursuit of endless profit from the limited resource that is property. Speculation prevents charities such as Rowan Alba providing accommodation and this investment goes some way to redress this.
Tom works within Housing Benefit in a Scottish Local Authority
Barti is a retired Head Vet and has invested ethically before
"I want to put my money where my beliefs lie. This investment helps the community in which I live."
From a financial perspective, why did you choose to invest in CGAH / Rowan Alba's share offer?
I was interested to hear of a genuine investment that could do so much to help people less fortunate in life than myself. I was impressed by the business model which has a very clear objective i.e. buying an identified property which will house a given number of people. Hopefully the investment will be part of something that continues to help people into the future rather than a contribution which just disappears.
What do you think is most important about Rowan Alba's work?
Homelessness is a huge problem in the world. Unfortunately the gap between the “haves” and the “have-nots” is ever increasing. What Rowan Alba is doing is an example of capitalism with a conscience. I believe this is a sound philosophy for the future wealth of everybody.