There’s a concept of the Matthew Effect which uses math to illustrate what folks have lamented about for thousands of years – the rich get richer while the poor get poorer. Take tech for example – the rich and poor often have different problems, but because it’s more profitable to solve problems for the wealthy a disproportionate share of tech innovation focuses on solving problems for the affluent. However, it doesn’t have to be this way – and we have been blown away by the thousands of members of our community who have devoted their lives through their businesses, organizations and art to serve the underserved.

Imani Varker

I had the pleasure of partnering with a local organization called Cloud Covered Streets. They provide shower and grooming services to individuals experiencing homelessness. I was able to provide them with almost 100 pieces of soap and soap saver bags that they were able to give away to individuals who used their services. I think most of us take the ability to be clean for granted. Sometimes, something as simple as a shower can almost be theraputic. It brought me so much joy to help provide that little extra necessary comfort to people who often go unseen. I look forward to doing it again! Read more>>

Chris Smith

1000 Words Gallery serves an underserved community, specifically the Black and Brown communities in Indianapolis. These communities face poverty, limited access to cultural resources, and educational disparities. Art, often seen as a luxury, is instead leveraged as an essential tool for community building, economic empowerment, and creative placemaking by 1000 Words. A story that exemplifies this work: On the Eastside of Indianapolis, opportunities for creative expression have historically been scarce. One community member, a single mother, shared how attending a free art workshop hosted by the gallery not only gave her and her children an outlet for creativity but also a sense of connection with the community. The workshop inspired her son to create art for his school and her to consider art as a way to decompress. Read more>>

Lauren Hubbard

As Founder and CEO of All The World’s Kids Inc., located in St. Petersburg, Florida, we are dedicated to empowering our future leaders through programs that focus on leadership training, a holistic approach to growth, mental wellness, and global impact. We focus on serving underserved youth aged 5-17, many of whom face systemic challenges.  All The World’s Kids programs provide art therapy, life coaching and pathway planning, sustainability and experiential learning to these youth that builds confidence and teaches life skills. Our Future Leader Advocacy events and Global Impact Expeditions are tailored to support mental wellness, cultural awareness, and leadership development.  Read more>>

Mira Duriman

I started Majour Mira, my PR Agency, when I was only 20 years old while completing college, coaching students at a swim club, and tutoring at all grade levels from pre-k to pre-college, SAT, and ACT. Since COVID-19 affected my study flow by switching from in-person to virtual, I could only imagine how the transition and impact were for all my babies. Las Vegas’s school system is underfunded and unappreciated. So, it was my calling to teach my students the proper way to respect education and people since many of them lacked social skills due to being isolated for a long time! Read more>>

Diana Williams

Yes, my business serves an underserved community. My community resides in the Westside of Atlanta, Ga. The famous formerly known Bankhead Hwy, now Donald Lee Hollowell pkwy. I have returned to the place I started over 20 years ago. I raised my children in Bankhead, Northwest community and full circle to return not far away in the Grove Park neighborhood in a house my children and I built. Many of the small businesses that have been operating here over 20 years still look the same, no renovations, no upgrades, or even signage. Underserved with no convenient major grocery store, shopping, retail space or affordable housing for many residents. This matters to me because I live here, I work here, my youngest child is a high schooler here, my daughter’s work in the neighborhood. I need our neighborhood to succeed. My brand RobynHoodz Beauty will create opportunities in the community to become involved and employed where you live, add value to the community, and create a safe, and vibrant, successful black owned Bankhead. Read more>>

Jp Bogan

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I often work with queer people telling queer stories through my photography and video editing. As I found myself being more open and expressive with my identity, I have noticed that the queer market in the PDX area continues to find me as well. When it comes to telling queer stories in film, it is important to have an editor that goes through the footage with a respect for the queer human experience. In terms of photography, trans and gay people absolutely prefer working with someone who is also queer and outspoken about making them feel comfortable in their own skin rather than choosing from a sea of straight male photographers, whom don’t quite share the same respect for queer people. Read more>>

Dorell Sackett

SNAP provides low- to no-cost spay and neuter services to pets belonging to lower-income and underserved communities throughout San Diego County. We do this on our mobile Neuter Scooter surgical unit and in our SPAY Center. Spaying and neutering are vital for a pet’s health, behavior, and overall happiness. These procedures also play a crucial role in reducing unwanted litters and addressing pet overpopulation. Unfortunately, the cost of spaying and neutering can be prohibitive. If we aim to reduce the number of pets ending up in shelters, it’s essential to make these spay and neuter surgeries accessible and affordable for all pet owners. Many pet owners deeply love their animals and understand the importance of spaying or neutering, but simply cannot afford the $500–$1,000 often required for the procedure at a local prove veterinary office. SNAP partners with many other pet advocate organizations and provides no – low cost procedures in urban areas and unincorporated rural areas or the county. Read more>>