Our Story

The Vecina Café Empowerment Center was born from the lived experiences and heartfelt vision of its founder and CEO, LeAnn Flores—a proud Hillsborough County native whose roots in love, community, and resilience run deep.

LeAnn grew up in a home filled with unconditional love, laughter, sacrifice, and strong values. Her parents, who were youth pastors and hard-working young parents of four, modeled leadership not through titles, but through their actions. From them, LeAnn learned that true leadership is grounded in service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to others. These early lessons planted the seeds of purpose that would eventually grow into her lifelong mission.

In the early 2000s, her family moved to a small 12-home neighborhood in Seffner, Florida—built by their landlord, Ms. Brenda. It was in this little community that LeAnn first experienced the powerful, transformative spirit of connection. Neighbors looked out for each other. Children played freely. Families shared meals, supported one another during storms, and celebrated life’s milestones together. Her dad became the neighborhood “candy man,” and the kids helped run a small hotdog stand in the yard. These memories created a deep sense of belonging and purpose—one that would leave a lasting impression.

After a decade of life in that vibrant community, her family moved shortly after LeAnn graduated high school. The absence of connection in her new environment was palpable. No kids playing outside. No neighbors checking in. No shared laughter over backyard fences. It was then that she realized: community isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. It’s about connection, support, and being seen.

That realization sparked a vision.

Inspired by the love and unity of her childhood neighborhood, LeAnn set out to create a space that would embody those same values: connection, mentorship, leadership, and love. A place where everyone—no matter their background—could find belonging, build relationships, and grow together.

That vision became The Vecina Café Empowerment Center.

Today, under LeAnn’s leadership, The Vecina Café Empowerment Center serves as a safe, welcoming space where neighbors become family, stories are honored, and lives are transformed. It is a testament to what is possible when love, leadership, and community come together with purpose.