Tools and training offered to neighborhood association leaders and minority business owners

With the constant stream of news and social media often highlighting personal struggles and societal issues, many readers can feel overwhelmed. While these narratives are important, they can overshadow the positive actions and support systems available in communities.

In response, Delaware Online/The News Journal launched the Delaware Voices Uplifted Facebook group last year to serve as a hub where residents across the state can share events, discover local initiatives, and promote community involvement. Building on that momentum, the newsroom recently introduced Here to Help, a column to spotlight community news and publicize available resources for residents and organizations in New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties.

This reporting is to showcase organizations and individuals who are making a difference by providing resources, fostering community improvement and offering valuable services.

New cohort forming now for minority small-business program

The United Way of Delaware, in collaboration with Barclays, has announced the launch of the fourth cohort of the Stand By Me Minority Small Business Program. This program aims to support minority business owners by enhancing their operations and financial performance through a range of tools and resources.

Through the Stand By Me Delaware Minority Small Business program, participants benefit from:

• Expert coaching : Tailored guidance from experienced business coaches offering financial advice, innovative perspectives, and practical strategies to boost business performance.
• Growth and development : Optimization of business processes, improved customer engagement and employee empowerment to foster growth.
• Networking opportunities : Connections with minority business leaders in New Castle, Kent and Sussex counties.
• Monetary incentives : Grants to support and expand business revenue for successful participants.

Participating entrepreneurs receive ongoing guidance from experienced business coaches who provide personalized mentorship throughout the program. Coaches offer financial advice and insights to help participants achieve their goals, encouraging them to establish partnerships with minority business leaders statewide.

Interested business owners can apply by visiting the Stand By Me Minority Small Business website and completing the online application (tinyurl.com/standbymede).

Community association crash course training offered

Wilmington's community association leaders are invited to a specialized training session aimed at enhancing their understanding of essential legal rights, responsibilities, and procedures for managing common interest communities.

Hosted by At-Large Council Member James Spadola and Deputy Attorney General Chris Curtin, the Sept. 23 event seeks to provide practical guidance on effective community governance. The workshop aims to equip community leaders with a clearer understanding of their legal obligations, ensuring they can confidently lead their associations.

"We are excited to offer this targeted training session to our community leaders," Spadola said in a statement. "Our goal is to empower association leaders with the information they need to create well-managed, legally sound communities."

Curtin will provide detailed insights into the legal framework governing civic and homeowner associations, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools needed to manage their communities legally and harmoniously. He emphasized the importance of understanding the legal foundations and distinctions among different types of community associations.

"This workshop will provide practical information about the responsibilities and rights that come with ownership and governance in community associations, including condominiums, homeowner’s associations, and voluntary civic associations," he said.

If you’re part of a group or program that’s contributing positively to our community, we want to hear from you. Join the Delaware Voices Uplifted Facebook group or submit your story for consideration by emailing ajohnson@delawareonline.com . Your announcement and activities may even be featured on our community connections page.

You can contact reporter Anitra Johnson at ajohnson@delawareonline.com .

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Tools and training offered to neighborhood association leaders and minority business owners