We had the good fortune of connecting with Helena-Kelleese Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Helena-Kelleese, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I launched Serve Community initially as a community service organization. I later learned that most non-profit orgs and small businesses needed someone that understands their needs and could effectively provide solutions. So I decided to consult and work alongside the individuals I consider to be our #EverydaySuperheros and #ChangeMakers. Pivoting and transitioning my company after this decision resulted in more grassroots businesses, start-up non-profits, and businesses branding, capital, grants, and general operating and development support.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My life as a small business consultant has been entangled in the beautiful chaos of assisting grassroots and startups for over 10 years.  My ultimate goal is to serve and assist as many start-ups and non-profits locally, helping them build solid foundations, learn to advocate for themselves as grassroots and small business owners, and of course, spread awareness about the good work they are doing in their communities. We are the #ChangeMakers and #EverydaySuperheros! Serve Community has been my baby for the past 4 years, working side by side with individuals who want to do great work and aspire to change the world. When you have a desire to do something greater than yourself, it’s amazing how opportunities fall in your life to let you know you are on the right path. Entrepreneurship and owning a business is no easy feat in itself but very rewarding. Creating programs, being able to offer opportunities to other young millennials gets us excited about the work we are doing. Our new start-up business venture, Serve.Co Accelerator Program is our newly designed initiative to take an individual from idea to complete launch in 6 weeks. We also have other small businesses coming together to invest in those businesses by providing them seed money toward their business needs.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Atlanta is a melting pot of creative events and fun adventures! When friends or family come to Atlanta, the first place we have to check out is the food trucks. We love visiting the MET in West End and Atlanta Food Truck area, as well as the newly, pop up food truck area, Triton Yards. Absolutely explore the Little 5 Points area and support authentic shops and local cool spots like East Point and Historic College Park.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people on my journey that have made me and Serve Community who and what it is. My motivators are my close friends, business leaders throwout the country and overseas. I appreciate my tribe encouraging me and keeping me going. Their support of my business is unmatched and when you have overachievers, go-getters, and self starters, I’m bound to keep winning. Shout-out’s to my team! Ashley Dieudonne and Talia Sylvian (they hold me and Serve Community together), they are the real MVP’s!

Website: www.servecommunityatl.org
Instagram: @servecommunityatl @helenakelleese
Facebook: www.facebook.com/servecommunityatl
Other: Google Page https://g.page/serve-community-atl-llc?gm

Image Credits
Visual Brand Developer: DNA Videos, LLC

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