Search results for

Celebration to honor three decades of empowering small businesses with millions of dollars in loans, fostering self-sufficiency, and strengthening local economies-- San Diego, CA -- Accessity, a nonprofit microlender empowering small businesses with loans of up to $100,000, will celebrate its 30th anniversary on Thursday, October 17. Since its establishment in 1994, the organization has supported hundreds of small businesses each year, providing over $80 million in loans during its 30-year history. The organization will commemorate its 30th anniversary 2875 Dewey Road, on Thursday, October 17, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. This event will highlight the contributions of small businesses across Southern California and honor the significant impact Accessity has made over the past three decades. Guests will enjoy an array of delicious food and drink options as they mingle and connect with fellow attendees. The event will feature an Accessity-Funded Business Marketplace, where guests can explore and experience firsthand the diverse products offered by the small businesses that Accessity supports. Additionally, local entrepreneurs will share inspiring stories of success and perseverance. Tickets for the celebration are $81.88 through October 17. Special pricing is available for nonprofits, students, and Accessity clients at $55.20 per ticket. Tickets can be purchased at Accessity's event page. When the organization launched locally, it started with a small team of dedicated staff and made just five loans totaling $6,000 in its first year. Today, Accessity has grown to employ more than 30 staff members and serves six counties, including Imperial, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles. In 2023 alone, Accessity provided $11.9 million in funding through 386 loans to business owners, resulting in the creation or maintenance of 1,248 jobs. Sponsored by US Bank, the event will include several awards, such as Entrepreneur of the Year and Small Business on the Rise. The celebration is also supported by BMO, JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, California Bank & Trust, Pacific Premier Bank, Citi, and Comerica Bank. About Accessity Accessity is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution that empowers entrepreneurs by providing small business loans up to $100,000, along with a community of support and resources throughout Southern California. Accessity’s mission is to open doors of financial opportunity to those with historically less access to capital and business support: entrepreneurs of color, women, immigrants, and low- to moderate-income entrepreneurs, so they can build prosperous businesses and livelihoods for themselves and their families, while also strengthening communities. Since 1994, the organization has provided over $80 million in loans, helping small business owners start, expand, and build self-sufficiency, while strengthening local communities and economies. For more information, visit www.accessity.org. Accessity on Instagram and Facebook

Kalei's Kitchenette's First Storefront Anniversary! We're thrilled to invite you to the first anniversary of our storefront opening—a milestone six years in the making. Join us as we celebrate our journey and the community that has supported us every step of the way. We look forward to welcoming you! Established in 2018, Kalei's Kitchenette is a culinary haven nestled in the heart of Rancho Peñasquitos, San Diego. Founded by Chef Andy Mangiduyos and his wife Khara, Kalei's Kitchenette offers a delectable fusion of Hawaiian flavors and Pacific Rim cuisine, aiming to transport diners to the vibrant streets of Lahaina, Maui. From being a farmers market vendor to having their first brick and mortar, it’s been a great 6 years running a small business. Chef Andy's Culinary Journey: Chef Andy's culinary journey began in Lahaina, Maui, where he developed a deep passion for cooking amidst the rich tapestry of Hawaiian cuisine. With a background spanning from the University of Hawaii Maui to prestigious roles as an Executive Chef in renowned hotels and resorts across Hawaii and California, Chef Andy brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Kalei's Kitchenette. His commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and crafting personalized menus ensures a unique and memorable dining experience for every guest. Community Engagement: Beyond serving mouthwatering dishes, Kalei's Kitchenette is deeply ingrained in the fabric of the community. In times of crisis, such as the Lahaina fire, the restaurant rallied together with its patrons to provide support, hosting fundraisers and donation drives to aid those affected. Kalei's Kitchenette partners with organizations like FoodWorks to reduce waste and promote sustainability, aligning with its core values of environmental stewardship and social responsibility. Additionally, Kalei’s Kitchenette runs multiple dine-in fundraising events for surrounding Poway Unified School District schools. Aloha Spirit and Exceptional Service: At Kalei's Kitchenette, the spirit of aloha permeates every aspect of the dining experience. With Chef Andy's background in the hospitality industry, guests can expect not only exquisite food but also impeccable service reminiscent of luxury hotel dining. Whether it's a casual meal or a special catering occasion, Kalei's Kitchenette strives to exceed expectations, delivering not just food but an unforgettable journey of flavors and hospitality. Join Us for the Celebration: As Kalei's Kitchenette approaches its one-year anniversary of opening the storefront on June 22nd, we invite you to join us in celebrating a year of culinary delights, community support, and the enduring spirit of aloha. The festivities will take place at the Radiant Life Church Parking Lot (10060 Carmel Mountain Rd, San Diego, CA 92129), just across from Kalei's Kitchenette. Bring your ohana (family) and friends for a day of fun, food, and festivities! The event is free to attend and includes cultural performances, a photobooth, and face painting at no cost. Food, drinks, and desserts are available for purchase. For an enhanced experience, VIP seats can be purchased, which include an exclusive buffet lunch, appetizers available throughout the program, drinks, and guaranteed front row seats to enjoy the performances. Activities: - Cultural performance: Live hula dance, ukulele performances and taiko drummers - DJ sets and island tunes. - Face painting and a photobooth. - Coffee and desserts available for purchase. - Raffles and giveaways. - Signature combo plates from Kalei's Kitchenette. For more information visit: kaleiskitchenette.com Stay Connected on Facebook and Instagram

President Ronald Reagan laid the rhetorical foundations for the National Endowment for Democracy in a 1982 speech to the British Parliament. Support for its creation in Congress was bipartisan.

Eric Barone, the creator of Stardew Valley, keeps updating his video game. And has no plans of stopping.

The Sudanese city of Omdurman lives in the shadow of war, facing daily shelling and battered medical services. But some people are trying to eke out a return to life, however precarious.

USAID and nonprofit workers gathered near the Capitol in D.C. to protest Elon Musk's efforts to shut down the aid agency with his Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE.

NPR obtained emails that went out last week to leaders at health agencies offering to transfer them to postings in tribal communities. Officials close to Dr. Anthony Fauci got the offer.

Israeli strikes across the southern Gaza Strip killed at least 26 Palestinians overnight, including a Hamas political leader, as the military ordered new evacuations in the southern city of Rafah.

For Shaymaa Ahmed, a 21-year-old engineering student in Gaza, a cease-fire means she can finally mourn her own family.

Some opponents say the state should prioritize housing assistance for Californians who are in the country legally. Newsom said there was no money available to expand the program.