| Across communities we serve, residents come to Communities Together with a dream. They have skills, determination, and often years of informal experience running food stands, selling handcrafted items, or offering beauty services. What they don’t have is access to the systems that make a business in the U.S possible. The financial system. The business tax rules. The bank accounts. The marketing tools. The network. And for many, the licensing and certifications—often costing thousands of dollars—put entrepreneurship out of reach before it begins. That’s where our partnership with Latinas USA comes in. Latinas USA is a nonprofit dedicated to helping women and men of all backgrounds build their strengths and financial autonomy. Together, we provide a pathway to financial growth that honors culture, community, and lived experience. Working in partnership within Communities Together’s Entrepreneurship Program—developed and led by our team with funding from Truist Bank—Latinas USA delivers a 12-module curriculum that develops residents’ skills and teaches them how to translate their talents into viable businesses. Beyond training, program participants have access to WhatsApp groups, weekly meetings, women’s health sessions, and even space to sell products—creating a circle of support that lasts far beyond graduation. |
| Communities Together Team Manager Bryana Solano oversees and adapts the program to meet individual residents’ needs. If a resident wants to sell food, Bryana and our partners at Latinas USA ensure they earn the required certification. If a nail tech faces thousands in licensing fees, she helps them fundraise to meet that goal. Bryana and Latinas USA guide residents step-by-step through every requirement, providing a completion stipend, and stay connected after the program ends. No one is left to navigate the system alone. Partnerships are at the heart of Communities Together’s model, and our collaboration with Latinas USA will help residents turn their ideas into income, stability, and leadership. Your support helps us sustain this model—and empowers residents to launch the businesses they envision. Every new entrepreneur helps a family stay housed—and strengthens our wider community. Will you make a year-end gift today to help more residents turn their dreams into thriving businesses? |
| Together, we can ensure that every resident has the support and training they need to make their dream a reality. With gratitude, The Communities Together Team |