Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Carrasquillo
Amanda, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I founded Let Leona Roar Inc. because of my own experience. The journey of being a mother to a medically complex child, my daughter, Leona. She was born with a rare genetic disorder that allowed us to experience months in the NICU, overcoming several surgeries and challenges. As a first-time mom, navigating her care taught me the importance of advocating for inclusion and accessibility for her and others in similar situations.
The nonprofit was inspired by those experiences- my desire to create a world where all people, regardless of their abilities or differences, can feel valued and supported. Through Let Leona Roar Inc., I aim to amplify the voices of those and their families often left out of the conversation and to promote meaningful change in our communities.
WE A.R.E (Activity, Recreation, Education)
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Since its establishment, Let Leona Roar Inc. has been rewarding. However, like any nonprofit, it comes with its challenges. Such as securing funding and sponsorships and finding consistent funding to support our initiatives and events. While we have amazing support, competing for grants and corporate sponsorships as a new and smaller organization can be tough. Raising awareness is another obstacle in which spreading the word about our mission and reaching the right audience takes time and effort. Balancing time and resources, firstly, I am a mother first, and I still very much hold a day job. So, managing personal, business, and passion in our first year has its moments, but I have no regrets about how far Let Leona Roar Inc. has come.
We’ve been impressed with Let Leona Roar Inc., but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We are Parents, Friends, Advocates, and Individuals – committed to making a positive impact.
United by a shared mission, we strive to bridge the gap between the disabled and abled communities, fostering understanding, compassion, and inclusion. Our goal is to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and create a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can be seen, heard, and valued.
Through our efforts, we hope to inspire change, promote empathy, and ensure that every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Together we can make a difference.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
I hope to see Let Leona Roar Inc. grow into a nationally recognized organization that makes a tangible impact on inclusion and accessibility for those and their families. Expanding our programs and outreach, building a community center, partnership with other organizations, scholarship and grant programs, and most importantly, empowering globally.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.letleonaroar.com/
- Instagram: LetLeonaRoarInc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/letleonaroar
Image Credits
Photo Credit Headshot- Anastasia Da Silva
Photo Credit Park Event- Shanyn Tatum Photography
