SLA Wins First Place at USC’s Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies: A Win for Our Community and Future
We are thrilled to share a momentous milestone in SLA’s journey—our organization has been awarded First Place in the BAEP 460: Seminar in Entrepreneurship course competition at the Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studiesat the University of Southern California (USC). This achievement isn’t just a recognition of our work but a powerful validation of our mission to empower disadvantaged communities through sustainability, education, and workforce development.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Champions
This accomplishment would not have been possible without the vision and support of Laura Fox and Ben Van De Bunt, whose leadership and commitment to fostering entrepreneurial growth provided this incredible opportunity. Laura and Ben, your dedication to nurturing organizations like SLA is a beacon of hope for changemakers everywhere. Thank you for believing in us and for creating a platform where our mission could shine.
We are also deeply grateful to the exceptional team of students who championed SLA’s mission with passion and determination: Saniya Patel, Suren Ghazaryan, Emily Parker, Paula Punzalan, and Renee Torres. These students went above and beyond, immersing themselves in our story, understanding our impact, and presenting our work with clarity and heart. Their advocacy made all the difference, and their belief in SLA’s work has left an indelible mark on our organization.
The Grant and Its Impact
The funds from this competition will be directly invested in our Pre-Apprenticeship Program, a cornerstone of SLA’s work. This program trains individuals from disadvantaged communities, equipping them with the skills and certifications they need to succeed in union apprenticeships and, ultimately, in long-term careers.
For us, this isn’t just about funding—it’s about transforming lives. The individuals in our program aren’t just participants; they are the backbone of the sustainable, equitable future we’re striving to create. These funds will help us:
Provide hands-on training in urban forestry, landscaping, and sustainability.
Equip participants with certifications such as OSHA 30 and Hunter University Irrigation Certification.
Prepare individuals for union apprenticeships, bridging the gap to secure, well-paying careers.
Through this grant, we will continue to empower people facing barriers to employment, turning challenges into opportunities and dreams into reality.
Why This Win Matters
Winning this competition is more than a financial boost—it’s a testament to the power of collaboration, advocacy, and shared vision. The USC community has shown us that when innovative education meets grassroots action, the results can be extraordinary.
This achievement also reflects the resilience and dedication of SLA’s team and the communities we serve. It reminds us why we began this journey—to create pathways for those who have been overlooked, to plant seeds of hope in underserved areas, and to nurture a greener, more sustainable future for all.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this incredible win, we are already looking to the future. The funds from this grant will allow us to expand the reach and impact of our Pre-Apprenticeship Program, ensuring that more individuals and communities can benefit from the work we do.
To the USC community, thank you for your belief in SLA and for investing in our mission. To Laura Fox, Ben Van De Bunt, and the remarkable students who stood by us, you have not only supported our organization—you have uplifted the people we serve and amplified the importance of sustainable, community-driven change.
This is not just SLA’s win; it’s a win for everyone who believes in the power of community, the promise of sustainability, and the potential within every individual to thrive when given the right tools and opportunities.
Join Us on This Journey
We invite everyone to join us as we continue this journey of empowerment and transformation. Together, we can create a world where green spaces, economic opportunity, and hope flourish in every community.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible moment in SLA’s story.
With gratitude,
The SLA Team