Last month, the Sundt Foundation was among several nonprofits and businesses in the El Paso area recognized for supporting Project Vida’s Microenterprise Technical Assistance Program (MTAP). The benefactors were honored at a San Elizario, Texas restaurant that’s also an MTAP client.
The Sundt Foundation recently made a $2,800 contribution to the MTAP. The Foundation, which is funded by contributions from employee-owners and the company, has distributed more than $7.2 million in grants since it was founded in 1999. Foundation members also give at least 1,000 volunteer hours annually to many worthy causes.
MTAP supports job retention and creation, assists with loan applications and facilitates the growth of microenterprises toward small business status. This contribution is only aligned with the Sundt Foundation’s goals and vision and consistent with our company’s commitment to supporting the growth and proliferation of diverse businesses throughout the country.
“Project Vida helps educate small business owners so they can avoid potential pitfalls and allow their businesses to survive,” said Sundt Senior Project Manager Jason Esparza. “Many of these businesses are family owned and need help in the form of training or education. In a community where family is put before all else, Project Vida helps many disadvantaged family businesses secure a brighter future.”
During fiscal year 2016, corporate, foundation and private donations totaling $53,300 to Vida helped provide business and financial literacy and skill building to micro-business owners in rural areas of El Paso County. Project Vida’s mission is to identify the comprehensive vision of the community for its future and to develop community-based structures and programs to implement that vision in light of the needs and direction of society.