Atlanta Habitat Helps Homeowner launch new business

Atlanta Habitat for Humanity recently awarded a homeowner with $2,500 in cash, technology prizes and business mentorship as part of a new program to help would-be entrepreneurs launch their businesses.

Sponsored by the Atlanta Women’s Foundation as part of the Atlanta Habitat’s Vision. Goals. Action! (VGA) initiative, the Launch! Business Competition featured five Atlanta Habitat homeowners who pitched their business start-up ideas to a panel of judges.

First Place winner Jameka Holmes won the game-show styled competition for her business idea, NailCloud, a mobile nail service. Each contestant completed entrepreneurship classes and submitted extensive business plans.

The Launch! competition was prefaced by a two-part speaker series this fall that brought six high-powered leaders together—including Gail Evans, New York Times bestselling author of “Play Like a Man, Win Like a Woman”—to offer insight, key information, guidance and encouragement to Atlanta Habitat homeowners. The program is part of Atlanta Habitat’s expanded mission to empower families after they have settled in as new homeowners.

“VGA is key to helping families grow beyond the build,” says Lisa Y. Gordon, Atlanta Habitat president and CEO. “Once you’ve gained the stability of living in a safe home in a thriving neighborhood, the next step is to dream big. Atlanta Habitat is here to help those dreams come true!”

Atlanta Habitat for Humanity transforms communities through neighborhood revitalization, education, innovative development and partnerships. As one of the largest affiliates of Habitat for Humanity International, Atlanta Habitat has built more than 1,500 houses—impacting the lives of more than 5,500 family members and 168 neighborhoods—since 1983. In addition to constructing affordable, green, quality homes, the nonprofit homebuilder also rehabs existing structures and performs minor repairs for qualifying homeowners. Houses are sold to first-time homebuyers through zero-interest mortgages in Atlanta and South Fulton County. Visit www.atlantahabitat.org and @atlantahabitat.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jill Strickland Luse
Jill.stricklandluse@atlantahabitat.org or 404-822-0145