Originally published on February 1, 2024, by Karen Jordan for UrbanLand Magazine.

Los Angeles attorney George Fatheree III—who made national headlines for aiding members of the Bruce family in the return of beachfront property that was taken from their ancestors, nearly a century ago, through eminent domain—is embarking on a new venture, his social impact fintech, ORO Impact.

Fatheree has worked for more than a decade as a corporate attorney, as a partner at both Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP and Sidley Austin LLP and as counsel in the real estate group at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom. However, his new mission—to aid in closing the racial wealth gap by helping to increase homeownership among Black families—was inspired by his involvement with the Bruce family.

“It was what I said in the phone call with them when I asked them to hire me,” Fatheree recalls. “What I said … was, ‘I feel like I’ve been preparing my entire life and career to be of service to your family in helping secure the return of your family’s land.’”

He refers to Bruce’s Beach as a “defining moment” in his life and career. What happened with Bruce’s Beach has also had ripple effects nationwide. The case dates back to 1912, when Willa and Charles Bruce, a Black couple, purchased property in Manhattan Beach, California.