About Strong Community
Strong Economy
We're a community-rooted nonprofit dedicated to helping neighbors navigate hardship and build lasting stability — because a stronger community benefits everyone.
Strengthening Our Community, One Family at a Time
Strong Community Strong Economy exists to ensure that no neighbor faces a crisis alone. We provide direct assistance, connect people with resources, and advocate for the conditions that allow every community member to thrive.
We were founded on a simple belief: when individuals are stable and supported, the whole community grows stronger. Our work spans housing, food, financial stability, healthcare, and tick-borne illness awareness — addressing the full picture of what it takes to live a secure life.
"We started with a folding table and a list of 12 families who needed help. Our goal is to serve 500 families per year — but the mission has never changed: show up for your neighbors."
— Margaret Holloway, Executive Director
We Are a Registered 501(c)(3) Nonprofit
Strong Community Strong Economy is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law. We are committed to full financial transparency — our annual reports and Form 990 are available upon request.
Our Values
These principles shape every decision we make and every interaction we have with the people we serve.
Compassion
We meet every person with dignity and respect, recognizing that hardship can touch any life.
Community
We believe a strong community is built when neighbors look out for one another — no exceptions.
Impact
We focus on measurable outcomes, ensuring every dollar and hour of effort creates real change.
Sustainability
We work toward long-term stability for the people we serve, not just short-term relief.
Our Story
From a small volunteer effort to a community institution — here's how we've grown.
2009
Founded as a grassroots volunteer network serving 12 families.
2012
Received 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and launched our first formal programs.
2015
Expanded to include food assistance and financial stability programs.
2018
Launched tick-borne illness awareness initiative in response to rising local cases.
2021
Served over 1,000 families in a single year for the first time.
2024
Opened a dedicated community resource center to better serve our neighbors.
Our Team
Our staff brings decades of combined experience in social work, public health, community organizing, and nonprofit leadership.
Margaret Holloway
Executive Director
Margaret has spent over 20 years working in community development and nonprofit leadership. She founded Strong Community Strong Economy after witnessing firsthand the gaps in local support systems.
David Reyes
Director of Programs
David oversees all five program areas and ensures our services are responsive to the evolving needs of our community. He brings a background in social work and public health.
Priya Nair
Community Outreach Coordinator
Priya builds and maintains relationships with partner organizations, healthcare providers, and local businesses to expand our reach and deepen our impact.
James Whitfield
Tick-Borne Illness Advocate
James joined our team after his own family's experience with Lyme disease. He leads our awareness and support programs, connecting affected community members with resources and care.
Services Provided & Future Goals
At Strong Community Strong Economy, we welcome and carefully review all applications for assistance. Approval is based on demonstrated and verifiable need, ensuring that resources are directed to individuals and families facing genuine hardship.
Our primary mission is to help people achieve, maintain, or regain independence. We are committed to supporting the working poor, individuals experiencing financial hardship, and families whose circumstances have been impacted by factors beyond their control.
We believe that a strong community is built when neighbors support one another. Through compassion, accountability, and service, we strive to provide meaningful assistance that creates lasting positive change.
Future Goals
Community Donation Center
One of our long-term goals is to establish a community donation center. All net proceeds will be reinvested directly into programs and services that benefit local individuals and families in need — while also stimulating economic activity and creating employment opportunities within our community.
Community Food Pantry
We are working toward the development of a food pantry dedicated to addressing food insecurity among local residents. Our goal is to provide access to healthy, nutritious food as well as basic household necessities for those facing difficult financial circumstances.
Why Our Work Matters
Families across the United States continue to face unprecedented financial pressures. Inflation alone has increased the average monthly expenses of a family of four by more than $1,000 — even when spending habits have remained unchanged. Many hardworking individuals and families are struggling to make ends meet despite their best efforts.
Now more than ever, our neighbors need support, encouragement, and access to resources that can help them overcome temporary hardships and build a more stable future.
At Strong Community Strong Economy, our mission is simple: to stand beside members of our community during times of hardship and uncertainty, providing hope, assistance, and opportunities that help individuals and families move forward with dignity and confidence.
Together, we can build a stronger community and a stronger economy — one family at a time.
Join Us in Building a Stronger Community
Whether you need support, want to give, or are ready to volunteer — there's a place for you in this work.