Nonprofit El Poder de Ser Mujer offers free entrepreneurship and culinary programs for immigrant women

Sagrario Ortiz, founder of the nonprofit El Poder de Ser Mujer, told listeners the organization was created to close educational and economic gaps that affect Latino immigrant families and described a suite of free programs the group offers in Montgomery County.

"El caballito de batalla fue el programa de emprendimiento," Ortiz said, describing weekly entrepreneurship workshops that include both personal-development work and practical business training such as marketing, accounting and social media. She said more than 500 people have formally registered businesses after participating in the organization's training.

Ortiz described certified culinary and pastry programs that run about three months and combine in-person instruction (in a commercial kitchen) with an online business component; she said the culinary program is state-certified and recognized by the National Restaurant Association and that the group offers a one-day Food Manager certification in English and Spanish.

The programs are offered free of charge when funding is available; Ortiz credited partner World Source Montgomery and fundraising (including an annual gala) for underwriting materials, uniforms and certification costs. She encouraged people to contact the organization by WhatsApp at 240-832-4231, follow the group's Facebook page, or visit www.elpoderdesermujer.org for more information.

Host Marcela Rodríguez Villagrán thanked Ortiz and noted that the County Council has supported the group's work, and Ortiz closed by repeating registration and contact details for listeners who want to participate.