Today, we’d like to introduce you to Cherie Long. Cherie was introduced to us by the brilliant and talented Terrace Townsend.
Cherie, thank you so much for joining us today. We’d love for you to bring our readers up to speed – can you introduce yourself and share your story?
For me starting a business stemmed from seeing a need to advocate for an often forgotten population. As a mother of a child with a developmental disability, I quickly learned that my economic status and ethnicity would play a significant role in the medical care my daughter would receive. As my daughter grew older, I also noticed a glaring gap in the services available to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities that have aged out of the school system. So, the inclusive services and programs my daughter needed as she grew older were simply non-existent.
Driven by a deep-seated belief that everyone, regardless of their abilities, deserves to be included and empowered within their community, I took matters into my own hands, because I wanted my daughter and others like her to feel a sense of belonging and inclusion in society. The absence of these opportunities for my daughter ignited a passion in me to advocate for change and to develop new programming specifically tailored for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who age out of the school system.
I began my journey by researching creating a non-profit and seeking out resources, strategies, and inspiration. It was during this time that I encountered LIC Marketing. This connection provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to turn my vision into a reality.
With a clear mission in mind, I founded my organization Heart of the City Development Center, with the goal of creating inclusive programs that empower individuals with developmental disabilities. I have collaborated with community members, experts, and other advocates to design initiatives that not only met immediate needs but also fostered long-term growth and inclusion within my community.
Today, Heart of the City Development stands as a beacon of hope and progress my community. Through my relentless advocacy and dedication, I have established programs that support and uplift individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring they have the opportunities they deserve to thrive and be active participants in their community
My story is a testament to the power of determination, love, and the unwavering belief in the potential of every individual. My journey from concerned mother to influential advocate and business owner showcases the incredible impact one person can make when driven by a heartfelt mission.
We’ve heard great things about your organization. For our readers who might not be as familiar, can you please tell them about the organization?
At Heart of the City Development Center, our mission is to provide a space where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can explore, develop, and thrive daily. We are dedicated to helping these individuals live their lives to the fullest, creating an educational and socially engaging atmosphere that fosters a better tomorrow. Our commitment is to offer an environment that promotes self-respect, independence, and an improved quality of life for all our enrollees. We achieve this mission through three core areas of focus: learning, growth, and engagement. What Do You Do? The opening of Heart of the City Development Center is set to significantly enhance the lives and opportunities available to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Saginaw area. Our comprehensive programs and services include vocational skills training, job readiness skills training, adult independent living, and social interpersonal skills development. Our curriculum also incorporates physical exercise opportunities, addressing physical activity issues, and offering holistic support to the families of adults with IDD. Through job readiness skills training, we aim to combat transition and employment challenges, while our focus on independent living skills enhances our enrollees’ ability to live and function independently. We provide a safe space for individuals to engage and grow, offsetting any educational challenges they may face. What Sets You Apart from Others? What sets Heart of the City Development Center apart is our unwavering commitment to a holistic approach that combines education, social engagement, and physical well-being. We understand the unique challenges faced by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and have tailored our programs to meet these needs comprehensively. Our dedication to fostering an inclusive community where every individual is valued and empowered to contribute is the cornerstone of our organization. What Are You Most Proud of as a Brand? As a brand, we take immense pride in the fact that our inception was driven by a personal mission to stand up for my child and, by extension, provide services for a broader population of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Witnessing the tangible impact of our efforts on the lives of these individuals and their families is the most rewarding aspect of our journey. Our presence in the community offers a much-needed support system and enables a group of often-overlooked individuals to achieve an improved quality of life and become contributing members of their community. The Heart of the City Development Center is more than just an organization; it is a movement towards a more inclusive and supportive community, where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
So, as we mentioned to our audience earlier, you were introduced to us by Terrace Townsend and LIC Marketing Company and we really admire them and what they’ve built. For folks who might not be as familiar, can you tell them a bit about your experience with LIC Marketing Company.
What Made You Happiest About Working with LIC Marketing Company?
Working with LIC Marketing Company was an incredibly fulfilling experience. Terrace, the professional behind LIC Marketing, stood out as an exceptionally kind and open-minded individual. She genuinely listened to my story and understood my vision for the future of my nonprofit. Terrace worked her magic not just from the computer, but from the heart, bringing my vision to life in ways I could only have dreamed of.
What Have You Been Able to Achieve Since Working with LIC Marketing Company?
Since partnering with LIC Marketing, I have achieved remarkable milestones:
1. Nonprofit Growth: I have built a nonprofit that has served over 3,000 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
2. Advocacy: I have been invited to the state capitol to advocate for this population and the need for services as they age out of the school system.
3. Education and Awareness: I have brought education and a voice to a population often forgotten.
4. Funding and Support: I have secured over $170,000 in grants to date, with ongoing donations from organizations such as Molina Healthcare, AAA, Duperon Corporation, Sandlot, and Nexteer, among others.
What Would You Tell Someone Who’s Considering Working with LIC Marketing Company?
I would wholeheartedly recommend LIC Marketing Company to anyone considering their services. My advice would be to share your vision openly and trust LIC Marketing to bring it to life. This company exemplifies patience, professionalism, and a commitment to meeting deadlines. If you seek quality and professional work, look no further than LIC Marketing—they will not disappoint.
For instance, the owner, Terrace, completed my project on time while in the hospital having her second child. If that’s not a testament to her commitment, I don’t know what is.
Website: www.heartofthecity989.com
Instagram: Heart of the City 989
Facebook: Heart of the City Development Center
