One of the most important ways to have a large impact in life is by focusing on communities that are ignored and overlooked. These communities are often the ones most in need of help, tools, and services but for a variety of reasons the largest players in most industries chose not to work on serving them. We’ve been so touched by the thousands of members of our community who are working on serving the underserved from tackling food deserts to building empowering solutions for the neurodiverse. Each week, you’ll find us highlighting folks serving underserved communities.

Adam Schirling

My mission as a gonzo journalist has always been simple and to the point: Bringing a voice to those traditionally ignored by mass media and the American Public as a whole. Too many Americans go through their daily lives with absolutely no idea how others live in lifestyles they consider alternative or even taboo. Read more>>

Carrie Sheffield

Americans are suffering from record depression and suicide. More than 50,000 people died by suicide in the United States in 2023—nearly 17 times the number of people killed in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. This is the highest number ever recorded and the highest rate since 1941 — the aftershocks of the Great Depression. America’s mental health is at a crisis point. We’ve got to change this–and we can. Read more>>

Leroy Brown

I started my journey with underserved businesses. I worked for a company focused on breaking down barriers for socially and economically disadvantaged individuals (SEDI) who were launching new energy and technology ventures. Working alongside these founders, getting them integrated into the New Orleans ecosystem and helping them connect with opportunities and resources showed me what was possible when people had access to the right support. Read more>>

Avril Scarlett

I run a foundation that provides tuition support and back-to-school supplies for children in inner-city communities. One of the most compelling stories from our work is that of a young lady whose family I had never met before, but who I chose to assist. I supported her through high school and into college; not just with tuition, but also by mentoring and guiding her every step of the way. Read more>>

Amaria Webster

Yes—Esse serves men, a community that has long been underserved in the areas of self-care and wellness. For generations, men have been told to “man up,” leaving little space to care for their skin, emotions, or overall well-being. Esse changes that narrative by offering more than body care—we provide high-quality products designed specifically for men and a brotherhood where they can connect, heal, and grow. At its core, Esse is about making men feel seen, cared for, and empowered to build confidence and a lasting legacy. Read more>>

Darshan Sivalogan

Pathway Packs serves elementary students across Texas who often begin the school year without the basic resources they need to succeed. Many come from low-income families, where purchasing a backpack can mean sacrificing other essentials. Without these tools, students can feel unprepared and left behind from the very first day, affecting both their confidence and participation in class. Read more>>

Janelle Brown

One of our missions of the bookstore is to reach children who have never experienced the joy of reading. Our community has sections that have never understood how reading can change your world. Many view books as a tool required in school but not necessary item for life. The lack of literacy is understood when poverty is involved, however it does not have to be accepted. If we can share how reading can give you hope to change your environment or at least help endure it. Then we find our work successful. So, we are proactive and reactive to this disparity. We travel to read stories to local daycares, pre schools, and elementary schools. In addition to attending and giving books away during community festivals, back to school jams, and church events. We also provide STEM and reading activities to the community at the bookstore. This is done every 3rd Saturday of the month and is at no cost to the participate. During the Summer months organizations can schedule a book date to bring their students for an enriching experience. Read more>>