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.

Patience Ziramba

Yes, through my publishing consultancy, I have the privilege of helping underserved communities tell their stories – stories that might otherwise never reach the broader world. One particularly moving example is a man from rural Zimbabwe who approached me with a dream: to publish his life story for posterity. His journey was not just one of personal growth, but a powerful tale of overcoming adversity that spanned continents. Growing up in rural Zimbabwe, he experienced extreme poverty, where basic needs like education and health were hard to come by. Against all odds, he struggled through a system that seemed designed to disadvantage him. He spent his childhood herding cattle, often walking miles to a poorly equipped school. His family barely had enough to get by, and for years, it seemed that his dreams of a better future were slipping away. Read more>>

Nesha Higgins

Thank you so much! I’m really excited to share a bit about what we do. Serving the underserved is truly at the heart of everything we do at Melabiz Community Hub. We focus on creating a safe and supportive space for youth who might not have access to the resources they need, whether that’s mental health services, mentorship, job readiness programs, or just a place to feel seen and heard. A lot of these young people are dealing with really tough situations—gun violence, housing instability, or just the everyday challenges that can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to step in where traditional services might not reach, and provide the kind of holistic support that can help them not only survive but thrive. Seeing the change in them when they feel empowered is what keeps me going. It’s why I started this journey, and it’s why I keep pushing forward. Read more>>

Ana Carolina Treviño Tejeda

Fostering Organ Donation Awareness in the Hispanic Community: A Story of Impact The Hispanic community in our region has long faced significant barriers to healthcare access, which has, in turn, led to lower rates of organ donation. Language differences, cultural misunderstandings, and a lack of trust in the healthcare system have left many families vulnerable when it comes to donation opportunities. This issue goes beyond numbers; it impacts lives and can mean the difference between hope and despair for countless families waiting for a second chance. Read more>>