Alondra joined the Entrepreneurial Training Program in 2022 hosted by Gustavo Castellanos, Financial Wellbeing Coach for Operation HOPE – 1MBB. When Alondra met with her Small Business Coach, she expressed an idea for an educational service-based business but had no clue where to start. Soon after she successfully graduated the 8-week program and founded Abundant Excellence Educational Services LLC.

This was what Alondra had to say about her experience:

“My Operation Hope Coach was Gustavo Castellanos. Words cannot describe my gratitude for the help I received from Gustavo. He was professional, consistent, friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. I am the first person in my family to earn a college degree, a master’s degree and become an entrepreneur. I initially contacted Operation Hope because I knew they helped with small business. I only called to ask them for a resource that could help me start my business. I was not aware they had a program for entrepreneurs. After speaking with Gus, I scheduled an appointment and my journey to owning a business began. Gus offered advice, assistance, and helpful ideas. I appreciate him because he was easy to relate to. If I had a question and wasn’t sure of the answer, he demonstrated the integrity and confidence to tell me. Then he would work with me to find the best solution for my situation. Once I started the Entrepreneur Training Program, I learned so much about how to run a business. The program helped me to understand the importance of creating a business plan. I also learned about marketing and accounting. The best part of the program was the support I received from Gus and networking with other entrepreneurs across the country. Operation Hope has helped me take my dream and make it reality”.