Meet Our Borrowers

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Our Borrowers and Their Stories

Our borrowers represent a broad and diverse group of individuals and businesses. They include people just starting out as well as those expanding their existing business. Over half are women, of which, many are single mothers. Our borrowers are home based as well as located in commercial locations. Some are in the downtown city area while others are in rural communities. Over a quarter of our borrowers are members of minority communities, including African American, Tongan, Hispanic and others. 

The types of businesses our borrowers own are both traditional and unique. Traditional businesses have included hair salons, coffee shops and auto repair shops. Some of the more unique businesses have included acupuncturists, soap manufacturers and distributors of care packages sent all over the world to U.S. soldiers.

This edition's profiles include:

• Sarinda Jones, who took a risk and has found independence through owning her own small business.

• Horatio Pena, who found a way to develop his talents and skills and increase his income.

• Jonathan Schlee, who saw a great opportunity to provide affordable and environmentally friendly transportation to the community.

Read more to find out how the UMLF has helped these small business owners achieve their dreams. And be sure to check back for more of our inspirational borrower success stories in the coming months!