LETTER FROM CEO

Dear Friends,

All my life, I have had the opportunity and the privilege to be surrounded by a village—a community of support that came from family, friends, neighbors, church members, brothers and sisters in faith. I am a living testimony of the power of that phrase: It takes a village.

My parents were very young when I was growing up, and much of my childhood and adolescence were marked by their determination to survive. They worked tirelessly to provide, and because of that, my siblings and I had to grow up quickly. But by the grace of God and the faithfulness of countless people—some who walked with me for a season, others who stayed for years—I was able to press on, even when life felt impossible.

I graduated high school against the odds, and later, after seven long years of setbacks, losses, mental health battles, financial hardship, and healing, I earned my college degree. It was a two-year degree that took seven years to complete—but I did it. Now, I am the first in my family to attend a university.

With that same fire in my heart and vision in my spirit, I’ve created Pathway to Success—not just a program, but a mission.

Pathway to Success is a bridge for youth transitioning out of high school and into adulthood. It’s a place where they’ll find the mentorship, resources, life skills, and encouragement they need to succeed—not just professionally, but personally and spiritually. We’ve brought together dedicated professionals from across the county who are ready and willing to walk alongside these young adults and show them that success is not just about where you come from—it’s about where you’re going and who goes with you.

This program is deeply personal. It’s a love letter to my younger self. It’s me reaching back and telling that little girl—LeAnn Genesis Flores—that we made it. That it was possible. And that every tear, every delay, every heartbreak had a purpose.

All glory goes to God. This is only the beginning.

With hope and honor,

LeAnn Genesis Flores

Founder & CEO, Pathway to Success

The Vecina Café Empowerment Center Inc