On December 12, 2024, Self-Help Enterprises was thrilled to join Big Sandy Band of Western Mono Indians and our community partners for the groundbreaking of the Big Sandy Rancheria Homekey Project. Despite the rainy weather, we were grateful to see so many dedicated community members and partners braving the elements to celebrate this important moment. The ceremony began outdoors and, as the rain continued, moved indoors—a beautiful reminder of how new beginnings bring fresh opportunities. This 12-unit affordable housing development will provide much-needed homes for members of the Big Sandy Rancheria, with a mix of 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom units for those with incomes ranging from 30–60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). 

Located on tribal trust land in Fresno County, the project is being developed in partnership with Self-Help Enterprises and is supported by the California Department of Housing & Community Development, Rural Community Assistance Corporation, Mogavero Architects, Quiring General, and Gateway Engineering. Big Sandy Band of Western Mono Indians remains committed to supporting its members through housing, social services, workforce development, and educational programs. Self-Help Enterprises is proud to be part of this meaningful project! 

This December, Self-Help Enterprises, led by our Multi-Family Resident Services and Permanent Supportive Housing departments, held a “Coats for Kids” drive to bring warmth and holiday cheer to 79 children at Casas De La Vina, a Self-Help Enterprises multi-family community in rural Madera County. 

Thanks to the generous donations from our staff, each child received a new winter coat, carefully selected to match their size and needs. What began as a “Giving Tree” in the SHE breakroom quickly filled up, with staff eagerly adopting children and ensuring their coats were ready in time for the holidays. The coats were delivered on December 4th, bringing smiles and a sense of community support to the families, many of whom are farmworkers. 

We are deeply grateful for the kindness shown by our team. This effort not only highlights the generosity of our staff but also the compassionate spirit that makes Self-Help Enterprises so special. Thank you to everyone who helped make this holiday season brighter for these families! 

This fall, our Community Development Specialists Javier Salazar and Oscar Cisneros led residents from Comunidad Nuevo Lago (CNL) to the NeighborWorks America Community Leadership Institute in Baltimore. The three-day event brought together over 600 community leaders to explore the theme Diversity to Harmony: Blending Perspectives for Common Goals.

CNL, a resident-owned community in Fresno, California, sent seven residents—including six immigrants from Oaxaca, Mexico, and one Fresno State student. These residents are part of a leadership program supported by the California Center for Cooperative Development, which has been helping them transform their mobile home park into a resident-managed community. Self-Help Enterprises partnered with NeighborWorks America to sponsor their participation in the event.

At the conference, participants attended workshops on community engagement, problem-solving, and collaboration. A powerful moment came when Lorenzo, CNL’s Board President, shared their journey, inspiring others with their commitment to building a fair and sustainable community.

CNL also received a $4,000 grant from NeighborWorks to create a community gathering space.

In addition to the conference, the group visited Washington, D.C., where they met other leaders and witnessed civic engagement at a national level. Read the full story

Exciting improvements are underway at the Lanare Community Center! Construction officially began on December 9, 2024, thanks to a $1.6 million investment from Fresno County’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. 

This renovation will modernize the center with upgrades like new windows, kitchen appliances, HVAC, and an open ceiling concept to make the space more functional. It will also include a new roll-up door for easy access during events and food distributions, plus improve accessibility with an ADA travel path. 

“Lanare would like to thank Fresno County for awarding our community the ARPA funds for this construction project to be able to happen. The community is grateful to see a new building that will bring strength to the community as we continue to move forward,” said Danielle Roberts, President of the Lanare Community Services District. 

The Lanare Community Center serves over 500 residents, providing vital resources such as food distributions, educational programs, and community events. These upgrades will ensure it continues to be a welcoming space for all. 

Self-Help Enterprises is proud to be part of this transformative project alongside the Lanare Community Services District (LCSD), Community United in Lanare (CUL), the Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability (LCJA), and other community partners. The renovation is expected to be completed by April 2025. Read for more details

As we close out 2024, Self-Help Enterprises (SHE) reflects on a milestone year marking our 60th anniversary—a celebration of innovation, growth, and steadfast dedication to the communities we serve. From our humble beginnings in 1965 helping families build their own homes, SHE has evolved into a nationally recognized community development organization. With departments covering Mutual Self-Help Housing, Emergency Services, Real Estate Development, Permanent Supportive Housing, Community Development, Resident Services, and more, our mission to build and sustain healthy homes and communities has reached new heights. 

As we look to the future, we are excited about the possibilities ahead. With continued collaboration and community support, we will expand our impact, face new challenges with determination, and build on the legacy of trust and hope that defines SHE. Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to the next 60 years of working together to create healthy, sustainable communities for all! Read more

Our team of 200+ people are joined with a shared mission of working with families to build and sustain healthy homes and communities. You can too!