We asked members of the community how their organizations help the community. We’ve shared some of the responses below.

Théa Irizarry | Ice cream enthusiast & concert promoter

Ice Cream Social exists to help the community become more connected. We want to see neighbors not only be known, but become friends! As much as we love local music and making ice cream, the people are really what this business is all about. Our hope is to be a safe space where people come to engage with their neighborhood, and that they like it so much that they come again and again. And on the music side of things, we want the artists who come to play for us to leave feeling like they have the support not only of the community, but also of the other artists with whom they share the stage. If anyone leaves Ice Cream Social feeling less alone than when they came in, we would consider that a great success. Read more>>

Sendi Khatcheressian | Real Estate Agent

As a real estate agent, my mission goes beyond buying and selling homes; it’s about building vibrant communities and helping people find a place they truly feel at home. I work with families, investors, and new buyers to make the process enjoyable and stress-free while giving back to our neighborhoods. From supporting local businesses to guiding sustainable and thoughtful development, I’m committed to creating positive change in the communities we love. Real estate is more than a transaction—it’s a way to improve lives, and I’m honored to be part of that impact. Read more>>

Seleny Xie | Video Game Producer, Filmmaker & XR Designer

I’m currently developing Meli, an XR rhythm game that reimagines how we experience and interact with music. Using the Meta Quest 3’s latest pass-through and hand-tracking technology, Meli invites players on a deeply immersive, personal journey through timeless orchestral masterpieces. As players wield a virtual baton, they don’t just hear the music—they transform their surroundings with vibrant visuals, light, and color, turning any space into a magical stage where music feels immediate, alive, and intimate. Read more>>

Lourdes P. Estrada

I am blessed to be in this field. As a licensed marriage and family therapist we work with members of the community who are seeking to better themselves. I am in a place, where I get to see them at their worst and see them flourish and peak to thier highest potential. The work of a mental health provider helps individuals find a balance between their struggles and their strengths. Read more>>

Mwtasem (Mike ) Kojak

Through my work, I aim to challenge traditional beauty standards, advocating for diversity and body positivity. By collaborating with brands that prioritize sustainability, ethical labor practices, and inclusivity, I help raise awareness about responsible consumerism. Moreover, as a public figure, I am committed to using my visibility to support charitable initiatives, amplify social causes, and inspire others to embrace self-expression. Modeling isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about shaping narratives and contributing to a more inclusive, conscious, and empowered world. Read more>>

Chica De Luz

It creates visibility and representation of my roots and community. Growing up I felt very misrepresented by mainstream media as a Mexican American with indigenous roots especially being alternative. Through my brand and business I want to show how diverse we are and represent other women of color who are not white passing or don’t fit into a societal norm. Colorism, racism, discrimination is still a social issue in not only Mexico but all over the world if you’re too brown or too different. There is so many beautiful brown creatives and i aim to continue to give us the visibility and representation our people deserve. Read more>>