Hector’s Story: Building Businesses & Belonging
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For Hector, SUN has been more than summer fun, it’s been a launchpad for creativity. Alongside a friend, Hector started a small business selling drinks and snacks at school. Together, they learned one of the oldest lessons in entrepreneurship: you have to spend money to make money.
“We got the supplies from our parents at first, but once we made money, we paid them back. They were like our first investors.”
Beyond business, Hector joined classes in STEM and social activities, sparking new interests for the future. He dreams of becoming a defense lawyer motivated by a strong sense of justice and empathy.
“I want people to see they’re not too bad—that they deserve someone to defend them.”
The SUN program gave him not only opportunities to learn, but also spaces where bilingual staff reinforced his cultural pride and sense of belonging.
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When we come together, we show our young people that their dreams matter—and that this community will always stand with them.