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.

Derreck Johnson

I hire the unemployable. Most of my applicants are returning citizens and come from marginalized communitites. By giving second and third chances to those who are often left out of the employment arena, has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my life. Watching an individual with no hope and aspirations, turn their life around and become a productive citizen in their community is tranfromative. That’s who we are the transformative employer. Read more>>

Ernie Houston

Yes, Arizona’s Professional Car Seat Installation (APCSI) serves underserved communities throughout Maricopa County, with our home base in South Phoenix.

A recent example comes from one of our car seat safety checks at a local daycare in South Phoenix. We met a single mother of two who had been using a secondhand car seat that was expired and missing key safety components. Like many parents we serve, she wasn’t aware of the risks or how to properly install a seat. She told us no one had ever taken the time to explain it to her, and that accessing help had always felt out of reach. Read more>>

Heidimar Azuaje

Yes, absolutely. As an immigrant myself from Venezuela, I understand firsthand the challenges our community faces—especially when it comes to building a strong financial future in a new country. Many people arrive here without clear guidance on how to invest or manage their finances effectively. Through our jewelry store, we offer more than just beautiful pieces; we share knowledge, inspire good investment habits, and highlight powerful, positive stories of other immigrants who’ve succeeded. It’s about creating pride, confidence, and financial security within our Latino community. Read more>>

Robin Reigi

Alongside building Robin Reigi, Inc. for 27 years with my partner Jennifer Daly, I’ve spent the last seven years volunteering with the International Interior Design Association’s New York Chapter (IIDA NY). Much of my focus has been on creating access for students and emerging design professionals who often feel left out of the design conversation. Read more>>

Demetrius Justice Chavis

Absolutely—my entire existence is an offering to the underserved.

When I say that, I’m not just talking about statistics or demographics. I’m talking about the young Black boy with big dreams and no blueprint. The one who’s too creative for the corner, too soft-spoken for the streets, and too brilliant to be boxed in by anyone’s expectations. That boy was me. Read more>>