Today we’d like to introduce you to Sheria Bolding-Kitchen.
Hi Sheria, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My 17-year-old child was murdered in October of 2016. Through the process of grieving I decided to start a nonprofit organization to support at-risk, underserved youth with skills training and financial stability through entrepreneurship to decrease youth street dependability and vulnerability.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to operating a successful nonprofit has not been smooth at all. When I started the program, I used funds from my son’s life insurance policy. However, the program gained momentum but the funds became very limited. Where there is limited funding there is limited access, and there is a lack location stability.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
TVI has transformed into an intergenerational community organization. Our services are tailored to youth ages 13-21 who reside in underserved neighborhoods, and vulnerable low-income elders 60 and older. The Village is like none other. We meet our participants where they are and provide whatever support they need to prosper forward and obtain the best quality of life possible. Unlike other programs and nonprofits that stick to specific programs and guidelines, we create a flexible pool of resources and if we don’t have access we put boots to the ground to find access and the resources needed. Our youth programs focus on entrepreneurship training and small business start-ups. The participants engage in an extensive skills training bootcamp, which includes business planning, branding, networking, certificates and permits obtained to operate their business’, etc. What set us apart from other organizations, TVI pay for each qualified youth learners permit and driving license to eliminate barriers of mobility. The elders in the program receive companion care, meal prep services, transportation, house work assistance, technology help and more from our Elite Entrepreneurs. Although, TVI’s goal is to expand, our current focus is on sustainability.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thevillage410.org
- Instagram: The Village Incorporated
