The Fair Housing Act of 1968. It’s easy to think of it as just another history lesson. But it’s more than that. It’s about real people, real lives. As we commemorate the 57th anniversary of its passage we also reflect: How far have we truly come? And what are we doing now to ensure its spirit lives on?

A Look Back, A Look Forward

Think about it: before 1968, discrimination was the norm. Redlining, steering… those weren’t just words in a textbook. They were how people’s lives were shaped, where they could and couldn’t live. The Fair Housing Act was a crucial step towards equality, but laws don’t change everything overnight. There are still housing disparities we need to make an extra effort to address.

Why does it matter? Because fair housing isn’t just about houses. It’s about opportunity, about building communities where everyone feels like they belong. And at 1st Source Bank we’re committed to uphold those principles through responsible lending practices and community investment.

What We’re Doing: Real Programs, Real Impact

Let’s talk specifics. We’ve got programs designed to expand homeownership opportunities, particularly for those who have historically faced barriers to access. The Community Development Mortgage, for instance, is crafted to serve people with unique financial circumstances, offering flexibility that traditional mortgage products may lack.

And then there are the grants.  We partner with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis on grant programs specifically designed to assist key segments of the community.

These include:

  • The Launch program provides essential down payment assistance—up to $20,000—for first-time homebuyers.
  • The HomeBoost program offers $25,000 in down payment assistance for minority and first-generation homebuyers.
  • The Revive program supports existing homeowners in underserved areas by providing grants up to $15,000 for home repairs and accessibility improvements.

Since 2009, 1st Source Bank has helped over 900 families, totaling $19.5 million. For more information, visit our Homebuyer Grants page.

Fort Wayne: A Snapshot of Our Impact

Habitat for Humanity: Building More Than Homes

We’re big believers in what Habitat for Humanity does. We’ve committed to originating up to $1.5 million in Habitat mortgages by the end of 2025, in addition to helping them get an $836,000 FHLBI grant to help build 11 homes in Southeast Fort Wayne. That’s a $76,000 subsidy per home! We’re also providing a $500,000 construction loan, and a $30,000 grant through the 1st Source Foundation. There’s an additional AHP grant for 2026-2027 home builds that we’ll be facilitating, too.

It’s not just about the money, though. Our experts are also teaching financial literacy to Habitat families. We’re giving people the tools they need to make informed decisions about homeownership, budgeting, and long-term stability.  Access to financial education is a strong foundation for success, breaking cycles of economic disadvantage.

Being Present in the Community

We recognize that our role extends beyond simply providing mortgage products. Building strong, vibrant communities requires a multifaceted approach. That’s why we’re committed to growing small businesses by providing financial guidance, not just loans.

Furthermore, we actively engage with community organizations that directly support minority-owned businesses and promote economic development. Our involvement with the Realtist Association of Northeast Indiana (RANI) and board membership on the Fort Wayne Black Chamber of Commerce lets us to collaborate with key stakeholders and better understand the community’s specific needs. These partnerships are not simply symbolic; they are instrumental in informing our lending practices and ensuring that our programs are tailored to address the unique challenges faced by minority entrepreneurs.

More Than Just Loans

We know lending isn’t everything. We also support community organizations that provide vital services to underserved populations.

Through our Foundation, we have provided significant funding to organizations such as YWCA Northeast Indiana, which serves women and children across all demographics; Blue Jacket, which supports men in their efforts to achieve self-sufficiency; Building A Stronger Family, which offers financial education programs; and Bridge of Grace Ministries, which provides essential resources to families in Southeast Fort Wayne.

These investments reflect our commitment to addressing the entire needs of our community, recognizing that strong communities are built on a foundation of economic opportunity, social support, and educational empowerment.

Looking Ahead: Our Ongoing Commitment

The Fair Housing Act of 1968 laid the groundwork for a more just and equitable housing landscape. However, the journey towards true equality is ongoing. And we recognize our responsibility to make positive change.

We’re committed to providing accessible and tailored funding, supporting minority-owned businesses, and investing in vital community organizations. At 1st Source Bank, we’re living up to the spirit of the Fair Housing Act, not just the letter of the law. It’s about building a better community, one home, one loan, one partnership at a time.