1,000 Dreams FUND UNVEILS THEIR MENTORHER INITIATIVE COALITION
1,000 Dreams Fund (1DF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to fueling the career goals and dreams of talented women in need, announces the Year 6 return of MentorHER, its women’s mentoring initiative. Together, with its coalition of partners, they have set a goal of generating over 1,000 hours of mentorship for students in one year.
This month, 1,000 Dreams Fund will be partnering with Siemens Healthineers, a leading healthcare and medical technologies company, and MentorHER Coalition partner, on a live MentorHER event. Siemens Healthineers will host the event at their R&D and manufacturing facility in Walpole, MA, for up to 50 college students in the surrounding Boston region. Participating students will have the opportunity to learn from senior-level executives at the company, be mentored 1:1 by Siemens Healthineers professionals and receive a tour of the facility. The partners aim to help educate participants on career pathways and employment opportunities in the med tech industry.
According to 1,000 Dreams Fund’s research, 70 percent of American women, ages 18-25, say they have never had a mentor. MentorHER was created to address the need for more mentors for young women by connecting working professionals with underserved students to create mentoring relationships that lead to success in school and beyond. Additionally, the program focuses on high-quality matches by pairing students with professionals who hold positions in industries to which the student aspires to work.
Since its launch in 2019, MentorHER has provided over 1,000 hours of mentorship to students and has received support from leading Fortune 500 companies. Throughout the school year, MentorHER offers students a combination of 1:1 virtual mentorship connections, workshops, and onsite visits to partner company headquarters. MentorHER’s virtual mentorship program pairs individual women in high school, college, graduate school, and recent graduates, with professionals and executives for a one-hour, 1:1 highimpact mentorship session.
To reach its goal of 1,000 hours of mentorship, 1DF will be adding more partners to the MentorHER Initiative throughout the year as well as encouraging individual professionals to sign up. Professionals at all levels, including the C-Suite, are encouraged to participate.
How to Participate in the Virtual Mentorship Program Mentors: Corporations, small businesses and nonprofit organizations are invited to partner with 1DF in this extraordinary, high-impact, employee volunteer opportunity. Individual professionals with an interest in helping the next generation of female leaders are also encouraged to participate as well. Help change a life by completing the Mentor Intake Application or contact 1DF’s team for more information: programs @1000dreamsfund.org.
FAIRFAX City Economic Development
(FCED) has launched the Fairfax City Business Marketing Grant, a funding initiative designed to support businesses located and operating in Fairfax City. The program offers financial support for professional marketing services to help businesses improve visibility, foster growth, and strengthen their competitiveness in the market.
Applications will be accepted from February 7 through February 21, 2025, until 5 PM EST. After verifying their eligibility and submitting their application, participants will be evaluated based on four criteria: business need and impact, service
To apply, download and complete the fillable application form, available on the FCED website beginning February 7. Submit completed applications by email to tara. borwey@fairfaxcityecondev.org or deliver them in person to: Fairfax City Economic Development, 10300 Eaton Place, Suite 235, Fairfax, VA 22030. Fairfax City Economic Development Offers $25,000
selection, project timeline and feasibility, and budget and cost-effectiveness.
Applicants may be asked to provide additional information upon request.
Awardees will be notified no later than March 3, 2025, and grants will be distributed upfront. Recipients will also be recognized at the Economic Development Authority meeting on April 2, 2025.
The grant provides selected Fairfax City businesses with access to a variety of professional marketing services, including digital and traditional marketing, brand development, public relations, and strategic services tailored to their needs. A total of
$25,000 will be awarded across at least five businesses, with each receiving up to $5,000 to procure marketing expertise. This initiative connects locally owned businesses with industry experts, equipping them with tools and strategies to stay competitive in today’s market and drive long-term success.
TECHNOLOGY
HERstory Unveiled Celebrate Women
Entrepreneurs in Times Square!
THE Possible Woman Magazine is excited to announce 2nd Annual HERstory Unveiled event, an extraordinary celebration honoring the achievements of women entrepreneurs.
Set to take place on March 8, 2025, in the iconic New York Times Square, this event will coincide with International Women’s Day and promises an unforgettable experience filled with inspiration and empowerment.
HERstory Unveiled will bring together amazing women who shaping the future of entrepreneurship, offering a platform to connect and celebrate. This event features a lineup of remarkable women, including Tysheda Williams, founder of Luxury Travels by Dreamy Designer Events, LLC, and Sara Jane Abbott, owner of See Jane Sparkle. Sara will also style featured women for their NYTS debut, adding a creative flair to this transformative day.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this special celebration of women’s empowerment, resilience, and success. Secure your spot by visiting https:// possiblewomanmagazine.com/iwd-2025nyts. Spaces are limited, so act fast.
A Platform for Empowerment and Recognition
HERstory Unveiled is not just another event—it’s a dynamic platform designed to amplify the voices and achievements of women entrepreneurs. Attendees will have unique
opportunities to network, collaborate, and build lasting relationships in a supportive environment.
Featured women entrepreneurs will gain invaluable exposure on the iconic New York Times Square billboard, offering
unparalleled visibility and a significant boost to their brand and professional profiles. This momentous opportunity will connect them with potential investors, collaborators, and mentors, opening doors to new ventures and growth.
National Women’s History Museum to Honor Sara Blakely, Dr. Opal Lee, Shirley Welsh Ryan, and Mattel at 2025 Women
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or (4) property appraiser accredited by a nationally recognized organization, or certified by either the Office of Real Estate Appraiser or the State Board of Equalization.
For a full list of current or upcoming Boards, Commissions and Task Forces, please visit https:// sfbos.org/vacancy-boards-commissions-task-forces.
Want to work for the City? Visit the website https://careers.sf.gov/ and find a job that’s right for you!
Department Announcements
Airport
Job Seekers and Business Owners: Find New Opportunities for the New Year at SFO’s 2025 Resource Fair! The fair is a one-of-a-kind event designed to connect job seekers with Airport employers and provide businesses with access to information and opportunities at SFO. Whether you are new to the job market or an experienced professional, a small or a medium-sized business, come learn about the opportunities that SFO has to offer! Date: February 13, 2025 Time: 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Location: San Mateo County Event Center. Contact: Call/text: 650-456-7966 or email: community@flysfo.com. Register at: https://forms. office.com/g/yVwaQA7R82.
Assessor-Recorder Assessor-Recorder Joaquín Torres Public Service Announcement -- Homeowners’ Period for Requesting Reductions in Assessed Value Begins: If you believe your property’s assessed (taxable) value is higher than the market value, you can request an Informal Assessment Review for a temporary decline in value between January 2 and March 31, 2025. This service is free of charge and is available to property owners in a single-family dwelling, residential condominiums, townhouses, live-work lofts and cooperative units. For more information: https://www.sfassessor.org/. Department of Public Health Count on WIC for Healthy Families!
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program for women, infants, and children.
You may qualify if you: Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or just had a baby; Have children under age 5; and • Have low to medium income; and/or Receive Medi-Cal, CalFresh (Food Stamps), or CalWORKS (TANF) benefits; and Live in California
WIC Provides: Nutrition education and health information, breastfeeding support, food benefits for healthy foods (like fruits and vegetables),referrals to medical providers and community services
Learn more at: MyFamily.wic.ca.gov or www.wicworks.ca.gov
Enroll early! Call today to see if you qualify and to make an appointment- (628) 206-5494 or (415) 657-1724
This institution is an equal opportunity provider
Child Support Services Child support matters can be complicated, stressful, and confusing. The Department of Child Support Services helps parents understand the process so they know their rights and options for making and receiving support payments. We are available to assist you in person or by phone. Virtual services are also available. Call us today at (866) 901-3212 for more information. Enroll online or schedule an appointment at sf.gov/dcss to learn how we can help you.
City Attorney Office The San Francisco City Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting consumers and members of the public.
We investigate and prosecute businesses that deceive or defraud consumers, as well as property owners that maintain properties in substandard conditions or violate housing laws.
Members of the public who wish to report a consumer complaint should contact the Office through its hotline at (415) 554-3977 or its web portal at https://www.sfcityattorney.org/report-a-complaint/.
Our office will review the information you provide and may seek additional information from you.
com! From live events to restaurants and shops, downtown is buzzing with opportunities to have fun. Our small businesses are at the heart of this vibrancy, shaping the San Francisco experience we all love. If you’re an entrepreneur or small business owner, visit SF.gov/OSB
The National Women’s History Museum (NWHM) announced its details surrounding their annual Women Making History Awards Gala, set to take place on March 20 at The Anthem in Washington D.C. This year’s event, which celebrates extraordinary, trailblazing women who have made a profound contribution to society, will honor inventor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Sara Blakely; Dr. Opal Lee, the “Grandmother of Juneteenth;” and advocate for transformative research and education Shirley Welsh Ryan. Mattel, celebrating its 80th anniversary this year, will receive the inaugural Evelyn Y. Davis Women Making History Corporate Changemaker Award, which will be accepted by Mattel EVP and Chief Brand Officer Lisa McKnight. Award-winning actress and icon Meryl Streep will serve as the honorary chair of the evening, and the program will be hosted by CBS News award-winning journalist Norah O’Donnell.
The gala will also feature live entertainment, including the premier
of the organization’s inaugural song composed by Grammy Award-winning artist Tena Clark.
“We are incredibly proud to be celebrating this incomparable group of honorees at our gala. They have each made indelible contributions to society that will endure for generations to come,” said Susan D. Whiting, chair of the NWHM Board of Directors. “We are looking forward to commemorating the remarkable achievements of Sara, Opal, Shirley, and Mattel at what promises to be an inspiring and unforgettable night.”
Since its debut in 2012, the Women Making History Awards has honored distinguished figures across various
fields, including literary giant Dr. Maya Angelou, acclaimed actresses Viola Davis and Rita Moreno, NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson, SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell, and civil rights icon Dolores Huerta.
About the Evelyn Y. Davis Women Making History Corporate Changemaker Award
The Evelyn Y. Davis Women Making History Corporate Changemaker Award honors companies that serve as catalysts for change through a demonstrated commitment to gender equity, representation, and inclusion. Evelyn Y. Davis was a tenacious leader in the corporate world, advocating for accountability and equality. This award honors her legacy by recognizing organizations like Mattel for leading the way in creating a more equitable future. Additional information and tickets for the gala are available here: https://www.womenshistory.org/ public-programs/women-makinghistory-awards
IWF’S world-class Leadership Fellows Program accelerates the career path of high-performing women, catalyzing their potential, and elevating their impact within organizations worldwide. Now in its 30th year, with more than 800 alumnae from 56 countries, the IWF Leadership Fellows Program is unique among leadership development programs globally. Its scope, rigor, and results make it an unparalleled tool for career development and succession planning. Applications can be found at: https:// iwforum.org/initiatives/development/ fellows/application/ The International Women’s Forum (IWF), the global organization of over 8,200 top women leaders in 35 countries, today announced a gift in honor of IWF Oregon member Susan Hammer and her
and
Celebrate Trailblazing Women Entrepreneurs at the HERstory Unveiled Event in Times Square on International Women’s Day.
MEET THE FOUNDER
Mela Vitamins Teams Up with WNBA Stars to Champion Wellness for Women of Color
MELA VITAMINS, the creators of Daily Essentials, the first multivitamin specifically formulated for women of color, is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with WNBA champions Azurá Stevens (LA Sparks) and Dana Evans (Chicago Sky). Together, they aim to empower communities of color to prioritize wellness while addressing longstanding health disparities.
These athletes—trailblazers both on and off the court—will join Mela Vitamins as Investors and Brand Ambassadors on a shared mission to empower and educate their communities about
fosters a culture of inclusive wellness.
“More than 80% of Black women are vitamin D deficient, a condition linked to double the rates of heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and type 2 diabetes,” said Ashley Harmon, founder and CEO of Mela Vitamins, who personally battled a vitamin D deficiency for years. “This partnership is about creating meaningful solutions to address these disparities and empowering women of color to take control of their health. Azurá and Dana are incredible role models, and we’re honored to have them champion our mission.”
Physician and Big Tech
Executive, Dr. Camille White, Launches Inspire2Evolve
A holistic approach to executive coaching and business development
IN a bold step to transform professional development, Dr. Camille White has launched Inspire2Evolve, a groundbreaking executive coaching firm designed to help professionals align their careers with their passions and purpose. Drawing on her 20 years of experience in medicine, mental health, government, technology, and spirituality, Dr. White aims to empower executives at all stages of their careers to unlock their full potential through innovative and holistic strategies. Inspire2Evolve distinguishes itself by integrating mindfulness practices, the law of attraction, and a focus on individual potential into its coaching approach. The company’s core philosophy centers on the belief that professional success is deeply connected to personal fulfillment, stress reduction, and authentic selfexpression. We had a chance to ask Dr. Camille White in detail how the firm aims to create a network of empowered leaders who embrace authenticity, contribute meaningfully, and find joy in their careers.
1. What is the mission/vision of your business/organization?
Our mission at Inspire2Evolve is to empower high-achieving professionals and business leaders to align their careers and lives with their passion and purpose. We believe in holistic success, which emphasizes joy, abundance, and well-being. Our vision is to create a thriving
community of empowered individuals who live authentically, contribute meaningfully, and lead with purpose and fulfillment.
2. What drives you to succeed?
What drives us is the transformative impact we see in our clients’ lives. Witnessing executives rediscover their passions, overcome burnout, and thrive in their careers fuels our commitment to holistic coaching. The joy of seeing our clients unlock their full potential and embrace authentic success inspires us every day.
3. What’s unique about the work that you do?
Our holistic methodology sets Inspire2Evolve apart. We combine mindfulness, the law of attraction, and practical strategies to help our clients achieve alignment in their professional and personal lives. This unique blend helps clients reduce stress, enhance well-being, and unlock their potential in a way that feels
natural and fulfilling.
4. What’s on the horizon for your business?
• Live Challenge: We’re planning an engaging live challenge to introduce more professionals to our signature 12-week course.
• Workshops & Speaking Engagements: We’re expanding our workshops and motivational speaking opportunities to reach even more leaders seeking alignment and purpose.
• Partnerships: Our partnership with End Workplace Abuse continues to grow, with upcoming events like the Voice & Action Rally, sharing the story of Dr. Candia-Bailey to highlight workplace abuse awareness.
• New Services: We recently launched hot seat coaching for clients who need immediate guidance, as well as healthcare career coaching services for professionals in the medical field.
5. What’s the best way for people to support your business?
You can support Inspire2Evolve by:
• Sharing our services and mission with your network.
• Attending or referring someone to our live events, workshops, or coaching programs.
• Following us on social media and engaging with our content to help spread awareness about holistic coaching and career alignment.
6. What’s the best way to follow up with you for more information?
The best way to connect with us is through our website, Inspire2Evolve. com. You can also email us directly at drcamille@inspire2evolve.com or message us on LinkedIn. Let’s connect and explore how we can help you or someone you know evolve into the next chapter of success!
“As an athlete, I’ve seen how access to the right resources can make all the difference,” said Azurá Stevens, WNBA Champion and Mela Vitamins Brand Ambassador. “Partnering with Mela Vitamins allows me to advocate for Black women and help ensure they have the resources they need to thrive. This is about advancing health equity and empowering our community.”
“Wellness is about equity, access, and community—not just physical health,” Harmon added.
This collaboration reflects Mela’s broader commitment to health equity. By addressing longstanding disparities in nutrition and wellness, Mela Vitamins is not only filling a market gap but leading a transformative movement in the wellness industry.
Dr. Camille White,
Founder and CEO Ashley Harmon (left) and Azurá Stevens (right). PHOTO:
Collective Women’s Leadership Launches App to Empower Women in Business
COLLECTIVE Women’s Leadership, known for empowering emergent women leaders to reach the next level of their careers, launches the Collective Women’s Leadership app. It can be found in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
The app is designed for women around the world to experience the Collective Method:
• Curated interactive courses covering essential leadership skills, including communication, personal branding, self-advocacy, and empowerment, designed for real-world application
• Connection with a network of like-minded women through a vibrant in-app community to share experiences, exchange ideas and build a supportive network that fosters growth and collaboration
• Access to a wealth of resources, from expert insights to downloadable guides, empowering users to take charge of their leadership journey
An intuitive interface easily allows users to explore a range of resources, track progress and
stay inspired on the journey to becoming a confident leader
Joyce Toti, founder and CEO of Collective Women’s Leadership, created the Collective Method based on her more than 20 years of experience empowering women to rise to leadership. Drawing from her executive roles at iconic brands like Tiffany & Co., LVMH, Tory Burch and Wynn Resorts, Joyce has helped tens of thousands of women through in-person mentoring and relatable, honest advice on Instagram.
“The Collective Women’s Leadership app embodies our mission to make world-class leadership development accessible, engaging and tailored to women’s unique needs,” said Toti. “This was a vision that I had for quite some time, and to be able to put it into fruition will help so many women succeed.”
App users can customize their experience by selecting the level of membership that best suits them and their career goals, ranging from module learning to an exclusive 12-week mentorship program with Joyce.
National Philanthropist Dr. Cheryl Polote Williamson
Honors Black Women
Business Owners in Dallas with Women of Influence Award Luncheon
Ethics Commission
CITY AND COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO
Community Outreach Public Notice
The San Francisco Ethics Commission is the city agency responsible for enforcing conflict-ofinterest, campaign finance, and lobbying laws in San Francisco. We are committed to making San Francisco city government accountable and transparent. Ethics laws ensure that public officials make decisions in the interest of all San Franciscans and that no one can use a public position for their own personal benefit.
Be informed! You can learn about San Francisco’s ethics rules by visiting our website at sfethics. org. There, you can also review public disclosures filed by City officials, political campaigns, and lobbyists. This information can help you understand who is spending money to influence city government and local elections.
See something? Say something! If you have information about a violation of conflict-of-interest, campaign finance, or lobbying laws, you can file an online complaint with the Ethics Commission by visiting our website.
San Francisco Ethics Commission Accountability – Transparency – Trust sfethics.org
Office of Civic Engagement & Immigrant Affairs
Resources for Immigrants in San Francisco
The SF Immigrant Forum is an online resource for immigrants of all backgrounds and statuses in San Francisco. This site includes resources for free to low-cost immigration legal help, healthcare and public benefits information, know your rights, upcoming events, and much more! Get connected to the trusted resources you need: sf.gov/immigrants
Department of Technology
The San Francisco Department of Technology provides innovative, reliable, and secure technology solutions, empowering City and County agencies to deliver exceptional, communityfocused services.
To support San Franciscans in staying safe online, we’ve published cybersecurity resources in multiple languages on our website: https://www.sf.gov/resource/2023/cybersecurity-tips. These resources cover essential topics like: Recognizing and avoiding phishing scams. Protecting your personal information online. Tips for safe online transactions. Cyber threats are on the rise, but together, we can build a more secure community. We encourage you to explore these resources and share them with your friends and family. Let’s work together to protect ourselves and our city. Visit our website today to learn more and stay safe! Thank you for helping us promote cybersecurity across San Francisco.
Mayor’s Office for Victims’ Rights (MOVR) Phone: 628.652.1175 Email: info.ovwr@sf.gov
The Mayor’s Office for Victims’ Rights provides confidential consults on crime victims’ legal rights, warm referrals to support services, direct advocacy on behalf of survivors, and legislative/policy solutions to strengthen victim services and violence prevention Rent Board IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR LANDLORDS
San Francisco landlords need a license before imposing annual and banked rent increases on tenants according to the City’s rent control laws. To obtain or renew a license, property owners are required to report certain information about their residential units into the San Francisco Housing Inventory each year. Property owners can submit their Housing Inventory information to the Rent Board in a few ways, but are strongly encouraged to complete the process online at portal. sfrb.org. Once the system accepts the submission, a rent increase license will be automatically generated and readily available. Owners can also deliver a paper Housing Inventory form to 25 Van Ness Ave., Suite 320, San Francisco, CA 94102 or to rentboard.inventory@sfgov.org. Assistance is available by calling 311 or emailing rentboard.inventory@sfgov.org. Visit sf.gov/ rentboard for more information.
IN honor of Women’s History Month, Dr. Cheryl Polote Williamson, in partnership with Soul Reborn, a 501 c (3) non-profit organization that focuses on transforming the lives of women, and Cheryl Magazine, an international information source highlighting the amazing work of powerful women around the world, is bringing back the Women of Influence Awards luncheon. The event, now in its third year, will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. CDT on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the Statler Hotel, located at 1914 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75201. Emmy-nominated television anchor Nicole Baker and Roni Talley, bestselling author, actress, film producer, and speaker known as The Exit Strategist, will co-host the luncheon. One of the most sought-after events of the season, the Women of Influence Awards Luncheon has sold out early the last three years in a row. Tickets start at $150 and are available online. This year’s event is sponsored by Intuit, Texas Capital Bank, The Polote Corporation and She Empowerment Global. Additional sponsorship opportunities are also available online. The Women of Influence award is presented to individuals who have exhibited extraordinary talent, integrity, and leadership in their respective industries and have shown compassion for causes that elevate
women and have helped pave the road for future generations. The 2025 luncheon, themed “The Affirmed Woman,” aims to highlight women with unwavering pursuit of excellence in their respective industries, driving both impact and transformation. The luncheon will include music, awards, performances, networking, and a catered lunch.
Founded by Dallas-based philanthropist, best-selling author, and filmmaker Dr. Cheryl Polote Williamson, Soul Reborn and Cheryl Magazine underscore Dr. Polote Williamson’s efforts to help women realize and embrace their full potential. Soul Reborn is dedicated to transforming the lives of disadvantaged, disenfranchised, and previously incarcerated women. During its 5-year tenure, the organization has donated over $610,000 and helped many businesses globally.
Notably, during the coronavirus pandemic, Soul Reborn fed over 8,000 essential workers and awarded grants to 10 college women and 50 womenowned businesses – five of which are based in Dallas.
Cheryl Magazine further supports these efforts by highlighting the work of powerful women from around the country. It serves to inspire the “everyday woman” to be true to themselves and to pursue their dreams and desires unapologetically.
“We are so excited to expand the number of celebrated honorees this year,” said Dr. Polote Williamson. “We are beyond grateful to be in our third year. The 2025 luncheon will be bigger and better than ever, so we wanted to provide a full experience that reflects that as well as highlight a wider variety of inspirational women who have excelled in their fields.”
The lack of access to capital has been a major factor preventing Black women from starting their businesses. With educational, financial, and inspirational resources like those made available via Dr. Polote Williamson and Soul Reborn, Black women are at the forefront of business ownership, making up the fastestgrowing group of business owners.
A portion of the proceeds will fund grants for women-owned businesses.
PHOTO: PHOTO BY VLADA KARPOVICH
Entrepreneur’ Organization Baltimore Opens EO House for Business Events
ENTREPRENEURS’ Organization (EO) Baltimore is thrilled to announce the opening of the Entrepreneur House (EO House), a dynamic and professional venue located at 1909 Thames Street in the heart of Fells Point. This vibrant space is now available for rental to businesses and organizations looking for an inspiring setting for their meetings and events.
The Ideal Space for Collaboration and Innovation
Situated on Baltimore’s iconic waterfront, the EO House offers a modern, flexible environment designed to support:
• Corporate meetings and client presentations
• Staff retreats and workshops
• Networking events and community gatherings
• Facilitated business discussions and more With space for up to 20 guests, the EO House is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and surrounded by top-notch dining and catering options, making it an exceptional choice for businesses seeking a unique, professional venue.
A Space That Inspires Business Growth
“The EO House is more than a venue—it’s a reflection of EO Baltimore’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections and supporting the entrepreneurial spirit,” said Donna Weitz, Director of EO Baltimore. “We are excited to welcome organizations to this exceptional space where ideas take shape and businesses thrive.”
Booking and Information
The EO House is available for rental by both EO members and the broader business community. To learn more or book a tour, visit eobaltimore. org or contact Donna Weitz at director @ eobaltimore.org.
One United Bank Launches First-Time Homebuyer Program
ONEUNITED BANK, the nation’s largest Black owned bank, kicks off 2025 with the launch of first-time homebuyer programs including the Lift Up Homeownership Program, a down payment assistance program offered by the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) of Boston. The Lift Up Homeownership Program offers grants up to $50,000 on a first come, first serve basis to help with down payment and closing costs for first-time home buyers who identify as Black, American Indian/Alaska Native, Hispanic, Asian and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders. Studies have shown that homeownership is one of the most effective ways to build generational wealth, but for many Americans, homeownership has become out of reach.
OneUnited Bank recognizes the historical and current obstacles to homeownership faced by people of color and aims to address this inequality by participating in the Lift Up Homeownership Program. Qualifications for borrowers include income requirements (no more than 120% of area median income), the completion of a HUD approved homebuyer education course and a borrower contribution of at least $1,000. OneUnited Bank also offers $1,500 to be used for appraisal, credit report and other lender fees. Other qualifications apply.
OneUnited Bank offers home loans in Boston, Los Angeles, Miami and surrounding areas where it has branch locations. As an Equal Housing Lender, it coordinates with other down payment assistance programs, so everyone is encouraged to apply for a home loan.
“The cost of buying a starter home is too darn high,” said Teri Williams, President & Chief Operating Officer of OneUnited Bank. “We hope our participation in down payment assistance programs and our contribution will help bridge the gap that many first-time homebuyers experience in all of our communities, including help to rebuild L.A. after the devastating wildfires.”
OneUnited Bank and borrowers must be approved by the FHLB of Boston to participate in the Lift Up Homeownership Program. Funds will be made available on April 1, 2025 on a first come, first serve basis. To learn more visit oneunited.com/firsthome.
Teri Williams, President & Owner, OneUnited Bank.
