LATEST NEWS
Good Morning Texas highlights our work and a grant from WFAA and the TEGNA Foundation
July 08, 2022
WFAA is pleased to feature 10 area non-profits for the incredible work they are doing.
On the Road Lending and Capital One Partner to Democratize Car Ownership
June 16, 2022
In partnership with Capital One, On the Road Lending stives to help working individuals and families gain the freedom of mobility through car ownership.
Staff Notes: Getting On The Road to Financial Recovery After Domestic Violence and Other Trauma-Related Experiences
June 09, 2022
If you’ve ever attempted to buy a car or make any large purchase that requires financing you have likely worked through the challenging process of getting a loan at a rate and price you can afford. Now imagine that process for a woman who left an abusive relationship and is starting over in every way, especially financially.
On the Road Lending named as Finalist D CEO’s Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Award 2022
May 31, 2022
D CEO has named finalists in its fifth annual Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Awards, presented in partnership with the Communities Foundation of Texas. This year’s program attracted nearly 500 nominations and included two new categories to recognize nonprofit efforts in education and corporate leadership in sustainability. After several judging sessions, a total of 126 finalists were named.
Building Transportation Equity in the Car-Centric South
May 31, 2022
Q&A: On the Road Lending CEO on how the nonprofit is aiming to be like Habitat for Humanity — except for vehicles.
Meet Michelle Corson, ‘The Car Lady’ Behind the CDFI That Gets Clients On the Road
March 22, 2022
Since she was a little girl in Texas, Michelle Corson has always loved cars, something that befuddled her parents.
On The Road Lending Announces Promotions
September 20, 2021
On the Road Lending, a nonprofit organization that launched in Dallas in 2013 to provide life-changing car loans, recently promoted two team members. Lonnie Smith, formerly Senior Vice President - Business Development, is now President of On the Road Lending. Bill Long, formerly Chief Operating Officer, is now President of On the Road Sustainability Funds.
“We’re excited to have Lonnie and Bill direct our expansion into the Midwest and West this fall,” said Michelle Corson, On the Road Lending’s founder and CEO. “They will be the leading our mission to remove transportation barriers and create economic mobility in Arizona, Illinois and Indiana.”
On The Road Lending Announces New Board Members
September 13, 2021
On the Road Lending, a nonprofit organization that launched in Dallas in 2013 to provide life-changing car loans, recently added two new members to its working board.
John Giegerich, partner with CEO Coaching International in Atlanta, and Kathryn Ragsdale, external affairs manager with Toyota North America in Mississippi.
How Impact Investors Alleviate Poverty By Funding Affordable Car Loans
September 09, 2021
Michelle Corson, a finance professional, wanted to use her skills for social good.
"I got into my middle years and decided I wanted to use the skills and knowledge that I developed for some good purpose," she exclaimed. "I wanted to use finance in a positive way and champion the idea of impact investing in Texas to solve some social problems."
When she looked around, she saw that people were unable to get better jobs, access good food, or take their kids to the doctor—all because they lacked transportation to get them there in a time-efficient way. Corson focused on helping working Americans get affordable loans to buy newer cars that are fuel efficient and with low mileage. Newer cars are less likely to break down and if they do are under warranty.
Texas Women’s Foundation Resilience Fund Makes $30,000 Grant To On The Road Lending
August 20, 2021
On the Road Lending, a nonprofit organization that launched in Dallas in 2013 to provide life-changing car loans, recently received a $30,000 grant from the Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) Resilience Fund to support financial coaching and economic crisis counseling efforts.
TXWF established the Resilience Fund in 2020 in response to unprecedented challenges in public health and the economy. On the Road Lending’s clients are predominantly women, and many work for or own small businesses and were hit hard by the pandemic. With help from the Resilience Fund grant, On the Road Lending will continue to help women improve their credit and hold onto their cars, which are an essential lifeline.
Staff Notes: Not Good With Money
February 27, 2021
Where ESG and Tech Connect
January 28, 2021
How has the current pandemic has impacted climate change and in turn, sustainable investing? Market participants, including our CEO Michelle Corson, from BNY Mellon's “Where ESG and Tech Connect” panel discuss the increased focus on standardization, certification and governance.
Partner Highlight: Funding U
January 19, 2021
Staff Notes: Credit Challenge is Everywhere
January 19, 2021
I am often struck by how credit is perceived among our partner organizations, business contacts and the general public. There is broad-based acknowledgment of people struggling with credit challenges.
Staff Notes: Never Give Up
December 09, 2020
My seven-year old daughter loves to sing and perform songs in front of her imaginary audience. One of her made up songs is called Never Give Up.
Partner Highlight: Grady
December 09, 2020
We’re proud to partner with Grady and support its mission to improve the health of the community by providing quality, comprehensive healthcare in a compassionate, culturally competent, ethical and fiscally responsible manner. Like On the Road Lending, Grady is committed to the underserved of Fulton and DeKalb counties in Georgia, while also providing care for residents of metro Atlanta and throughout the state. Grady leads through its clinical excellence, innovative research and progressive medical education and training.
Grady employs more than 6,000 individuals in Georgia, and we’re now a part of the GradyWell employee program providing affordable loans for reliable cars to help employees get to work and take care of their families.
Impact Investing: How One Nonprofit Uses Cars to Empower People
December 04, 2020
A car enthusiast and self-proclaimed finance nerd, Michelle Corson found the perfect way to blend her passions — and change lives along the way. She founded On the Road Lending, a Dallas-based nonprofit, in 2013 as an alternative to traditional automobile lending and based its practices on a simple question: What if we assume people will succeed instead of fail?
Finding Jobs In Alabama Doesn’t Have To Be Hard—5 Resources Available
November 13, 2020
Central Six AlabamaWorks! explores childcare, transportation and other factors that often hinder employment opportunities.
Staff Notes: Veterans Day Memory
November 06, 2020
My parents moved into our home at 6623 Wabash in Kansas City in the early 1970s. My dad, a Korean War veteran, got a mortgage through the G.I. Bill. They chose our home because of its proximity to major bus lines because we didn’t own a car
Here’s Why You Should Always Shop Around For Financing Before Buying A Vehicle
October 19, 2020
ATLANTA — Channel 2 Consumer Adviser Clark Howard warns that not shopping for financing before shopping for a vehicle could harm your financial future.
Staff Notes: On the Road Lending is a Resource for Caretakers
October 07, 2020
I’m Lonnie Smith, Senior Vice President - Business Development for On the Road Lending, and I have a special place in my heart for caretakers. My grandfather, who suffered from dementia, wanted to stay in his home. He was able to do that thanks to Tomas, his caretaker.
Partner Highlight: Operation Hope
October 07, 2020
On November 5 from 6 to 7 p.m. CST, On the Road Lending and Operation HOPE will present a virtual workshop on credit and money management to help Birmingham residents improve their FICO credit scores.
Headquartered in Atlanta, Operation HOPE is a for-purpose organization working to disrupt poverty and empower inclusion for low- and moderate-income youth and adults. With a focus on ?nancial dignity and positive money mindsets, the nonprofit helps equip individuals and communities with the ?nancial tools and education needed to secure a better future.
With more than 100 HOPE Inside locations nationwide, Operation HOPE’s certified financial wellbeing coaches are ready to help individuals achieve financial freedom free of charge and will meet virtually and privately from the safety of clients’ homes.
Operation HOPE’s programs are offered at HOPE Inside Regions Bank in Birmingham, as well as in neighboring Fairfield, Florence and Selma. Locate the HOPE Inside nearest you HERE.
We look forward to seeing you at the next month’s virtual workshop. CLICK HERE to register.
Where Are All The ADAS Technicians? In a Garage Run by Women.
September 28, 2020
The automotive sector is losing mechanics to age as they shift to connected driving technology; garages like On the Road are helping build our future workforce.
Partner Highlight: Goodwill Industries of Houston
September 11, 2020
Thank you Stand Together Foundation!
August 31, 2020
On the Road Lending helped 200 clients hit hard during COVID-19 through the Stand Together Foundation Give Together Now campaign. The nationwide community effort raised $100 million and helped more than 200,000 families. Our 200 clients received $500 each to help buy food and other essentials—a significant safety net given 40% of households have less than $400 saved for emergencies. We estimate 85% of our clients work for or own small businesses hurt by the pandemic and half of our borrowers have been negatively impacted.
We’re thankful for the Stand Together Foundation for helping raise these essential funds. In celebration of the successful fundraising effort, our CEO, Michelle Corson, told our story to the national audience. Get your Kleenex ready, because it’s going to make you feel good about helping On the Road Lending get hardworking families on the road to success!
On The Road Garage Gears Up For Auto Repair
July 31, 2020
To Michelle Corson, cars are fundamental to navigating the long road to economic equality. So since 2013, she’s followed that path — initially launching On the Road Lending to help underserved com- munities build credit by giving recipients low-interest loans to buy cars. Then came On the Road Motors to sell cars directly to buyers at auction.
“I’m just fascinated by how Henry Ford’s mission was really to make the car affordable for the common man, and how it just unleashed this tidal wave of economic prosperity for decades and transformed our culture,” said the 55-year-old impact investor and former real estate executive.
Partner Highlight: Catholic Charities Fort Worth (CCFW)
July 13, 2020
Catholic Charities Fort Worth (CCFW) shares our belief that ending poverty is possible. As one of our nonprofit partners, CCFW refers clients to us who are involved in its case management program. Each client’s case management plan includes employment, transportation, childcare and education goals. All of the CCFW departments meet weekly to review each client’s plan. On the Road Lending helps referred clients meet their goals with financial coaching, vehicle selection services and affordable loans for reliable cars. CCFW has a bold goal to end poverty for 10,000 families in the community by 2026. We’re doing our part to help make this happen!
Chase Commits $1 Million to Help Houstonians Impacted by COVID-19
June 03, 2020
JPMorgan Chase & Co. has committed more than $1 million to several organizations providing services to Houstonians impacted by the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are making investments to support vulnerable Houstonians in this time of crisis,” JPMorgan Chase Houston Market Leader Kristen Habich said in an announcement. “JPMorgan Chase has a long history in Houston and a standing commitment to supporting our employees, customers and community.”
JPMorgan Chase COVID Relief Plan for Houston Brings $1M-plus in Economic Aid From Chase
June 03, 2020
Houstonians who’ve endured a series of COVID-19-driven economic obstacles had barely begun to see the light at the end of the tunnel this month when another setback rolled in.
Thousands of Houston-area families are now at risk of losing their homes since the state’s eviction suspension policy ended on May 18, said Sharon Zachary, executive director/CEO at ACAM, the Alliance of Community Assistance Ministries.
JPMorgan Chase Donates over $1M to Houston-area Nonprofits for Covid-19 Challenges
May 30, 2020
Deal Ticker: DFW’s Top Leases, Sales, and New Projects
April 02, 2020
On The Road Lending purchased a 20,000 square foot industrial warehouse just west of the Trinity River on Comstock Street.
Bridging The Transportation Gap: How Nonprofits & Local Governments Are Tackling Transportation Challenges
February 14, 2020
This report offers an overview of programs serving low-income residents, with a particular focus on programs that reach rural residents. The Southern Economic Advancement Project interviewed program administrators for car ownership programs, rural transit, and vanpool programs that address rural transportation challenges and offer insights into their experiences.
On the Road Lending Announces $16.3 Million in Grants and Impact Investments
January 27, 2020
Funding to fuel expansion of successful car loan programs in Texas and the Southeastern U.S.
Dallas’ On The Road Lending plans national expansion with $10 million in funding
January 23, 2020
Dallas-based nonprofit On The Road Lending will expand its vehicle-financing program to underserved communities outside Texas with a loan of up to $10 million from Goldman Sachs’ urban investment group.
Dallas’ On The Road Lending Could Receive Up to $10M from Goldman Sachs Urban Investment Group
January 20, 2020
Dallas-based financial nonprofit On The Road Lending announced it’s receiving a loan of up to $10 million from the Goldman Sachs Urban Investment Group.
On the Road Lending selected to participate in Stand Together Foundation’s Catalyst Program
January 09, 2020
We’re excited to announce our selection for Stand Together Foundation’s Catalyst Program!
On the Road Lending Announces up to $10 Million Funding from Goldman Sachs Urban Investment Group
January 02, 2020
On the Road Lending, a nonprofit organization that launched in Dallas in 2013, has received a loan of up to $10 million from the Goldman Sachs Urban Investment Group to fuel expansion of its successful initiative across underserved communities throughout the Southeastern U.S.
Goldman Sachs invests in group making low-interest car loans
January 02, 2020
Goldman Sachs said Thursday that On the Road Lending, a nonprofit organization, received a loan of up to $10 million from Goldman Sachs Urban Investment Group to help the expansion of its car loan programs throughout the Southeast.
Meet Michelle Corson of On the Road Lending in Design District
November 19, 2019
Having reliable personal transportation provides so much for people — the ability to get better work, better school options for their kids, healthier food, greater access to medical care and most importantly more time.
World Car-Free Day: three solutions for greener transportation
September 19, 2019
World Car-free Day is held on September 22 to raise awareness about the environmental impact of large-scale car use.
MOBI creates the first vehicle identity standard on blockchain
July 23, 2019
The Mobility Open Blockchain Initiative (MOBI) has created and launched the industry’s first standard incorporating blockchain technology into a digital vehicle identification (VID) system, paving the way for decentralized mobility services and smarter cities.
Automotive lender expanding into Alabama
June 04, 2019
On the Road Lending has hired Lonnie Smith, former philanthropy manager at State Farm in Atlanta, as vice president of business development. Smith will lead the nonprofit’s expansion efforts in Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi.
Fed Officials Meet With Local Leaders to Support Low-Income Communities
February 25, 2019
Federal Reserve officials met with nonprofit and civic leaders to kick off a series of public listening sessions as the central bank reviews how it conducts monetary policy. Dallas Fed President Robert Kaplan and Fed Vice Chairman Richard Clarida, during a tour and hourlong forum, heard from area residents who have worked with low-income communities to improve access to education, affordable housing and healthy food.
Fed Listens: A Conversation in Southern Dallas
February 25, 2019
The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas hosted a Fed Listens community listening session on Monday, February 25, at St. Philip’s School and Community Center. Federal Reserve Vice Chairman Richard Clarida, Dallas Fed President Robert Kaplan and local community leaders (including On the Road Lending’s Shaylon Scott) discussed economic conditions in southern Dallas and how the Fed’s policy decisions connect with residents’ lives.
Second annual BBVA Momentum a wrap with On the Road Lending taking home $75K prize
November 13, 2018
Social entrepreneur Michelle Corson of Dallas, Texas took home the $75,000 first prize for On the Road Lending, a company which finances fuel-efficient and reliable cars, under warranty, for lower-skilled workers with weak credit at the wrap of BBVA Momentum.
North Texas Giving Day Booster: On The Road Lending
September 05, 2018
What we do at On the Road Lending is pretty simple: We’re helping North Texans get affordable loans for fuel-efficient and reliable vehicles. What we give to our clients, however, is anything but.
Lunch With D CEO: Michelle Corson
August 15, 2018
Unsurprisingly, Michelle Corson is a car person.
“I would have a different one for every day of the week if I could,” she says. “I want a one-bedroom house and a seven-car garage.”
Local program helps families get back on their feet and on-the-go
June 13, 2018
On The Road Lending (OTRL) helps families get from one destination to another by lightening the financial burden of purchasing a vehicle. After researching program structures, funding models and options currently available nationwide, OTRL was born in 2013.
'Walking Man' tops transit talk that plugs his adopted travel style — driving
February 24, 2018
It was three years ago this month that the Free Press told of James Robertson — dubbed “the Walking Man” for his 21 miles of intrepid daily walking, in all kinds of weather, to and from home in Detroit and a factory job in suburbia.
Path to a Better Life
December 05, 2017
When Shalva Moore first heard about the On the Road Lending program, she thought it was too good to be true. The widowed mother of three didn’t think she could find an affordable loan for a reliable used car with her credit rating.
Great Need For Our Services
June 01, 2017
I often take my personal vehicle for granted because automobiles in my line of work are so common. I think nothing of it as I jump in my vehicle to run errands, attend meetings, and go see friends. I think nothing of it when, during an auto show, I visit with consumers about trim packages and performance capabilities of a particular model.
Getting Drivers on the Road
August 01, 2016
When West Dallas resident Kimbely Rankin learned that her eldest child, Brian, 13, was offered a scholarship spot at the Covenant School in North Dallas last year, she didn’t know what to do.
Escaping Poverty
May 07, 2015
Last October, Michelle Corson sent checks to investors in her private equity fund for a “whopping” 3 percent return on their money. Some got less than $100.
Using Private Equity for Social Causes
February 27, 2015
While private equity usually deals with investments in companies and real estate, Michelle Corson is rethinking the concept to give it a socially driven focus.
Why the Poor Need Better Access to Cars
April 01, 2014
In many circles – among advocates for cleaner air, safer streets, less congestion and public transit – it's a major policy goal to get people out of cars. Reduce car use, and you reduce pollution. Reduce car use, and we'll need fewer costly roads and parking garages. Reduce car use and shift more people onto bikes and trains, and maybe we'll all spend less of our lives idling in traffic.