In the heart of Philadelphia’s Latino community, Lighthouse Village has become much more than a commercial space. It is a gathering place, a platform for entrepreneurs, and a symbol of community collaboration.
Edwin Desamour, one of the driving forces behind the initiative, explains that the name is no coincidence: “People know Lighthouse for its sports and programs, but many don’t realize that we’re now offering spaces for small business owners to open their shops. We want to promote the idea of a village. It takes a village not only to raise a child, but also to work together,” he said.
The concept of “Village Ave” was born from that collective vision. It is not just about renting storefronts, but about fostering a culture of mutual support among merchants: “Nowadays, everyone sees each other as competition, but here they share ideas and help promote each other’s products,” Edwin noted.
“We offer six-month contracts, and it works like a lease. The person completes an application, and then we conduct an interview to learn about their product and the type of support they need. Many still require permits, need to form their LLC, or register their trademark, and we want to make sure everything is in order. We also guide them in obtaining the insurance they need to operate. After that process, we move forward with the steps so they can enter the space.”
In addition to offering accessible contracts and guidance through processes such as permits, Lighthouse Village supports entrepreneurs in formalizing their businesses: “Many have worked under the table for years. We help them become official businesses. That’s something to be proud of,” he added.
For Edwin, the biggest obstacle for entrepreneurs is not usually financial, but emotional: “The biggest challenge is their own fears. You must bet on yourself. When they overcome that fear and build confidence, that’s when the magic happens.”
Priscilla’s Ocakesions: Baking with purpose
Among the businesses now part of Lighthouse Village is Priscilla Vega, founder of Priscilla’s Ocakesions. Her story began at home after her son was diagnosed with autism at age two: “When I decided to stay home with him, I started baking. Mixing in the bowl calmed him, and it was therapy for me too,” she shared.
What started as a family activity turned into a business. Priscilla specializes in flan with cake, tres leches, quesitos, and other Latin desserts, as well as options like banana pudding.
Her goal is ambitious: to open a larger bakery and create a program for children with special needs. “I want them to be able to work with me and learn social skills,” she explained. About her experience at Lighthouse, she said without hesitation: “I’m super grateful to be part of what they’re doing here and to be part of the community.”
Birch St. Designs: Creativity and cultural heritage
Another standout entrepreneur is Jessica Méndez, founder of Birch St. Designs, formally established in 2025 with the support of Lighthouse. Her business specializes in personalized tumblers and items that celebrate Puerto Rican heritage: “We started a collection that is a tribute to our grandparents, to our love for the island and our culture. It’s a way to create awareness and pride in Puerto Rican heritage,” Jessica explained.
Her journey at Lighthouse began with a simple table during the Puerto Rican Parade: “There’s a video of me right here in this same place, with a small table and my tumblers. Now I have a store. It feels like a little piece of Puerto Rico right here,” she said emotionally. Reflecting on her experience, she added: “It’s very moving. I’ve learned so much about business and about building community.”
Edwin also highlighted the entrepreneurs’ commitment beyond sales. “Every time there’s an event, especially for children, they get involved. It’s not just about selling; it’s about being part of the community. That’s what Village Ave means: teamwork, support, and mutual promotion.”
“My advice is to face your fears. I have a tattoo that says, ‘here be dragons,’ like on old maps where they mark the unknown. For me, those ‘dragons’ represent the fears that keep us from exploring our own talent. You must dare, trust your skills, and take that leap of faith. And you won’t be alone: the Village, Lighthouse, and the community will support and promote you. Everyone contributes here; you’ll be part of the community.”
Lighthouse Village demonstrates that supporting local businesses strengthens the community’s economy and preserves cultural identity. More than a shopping center, it is a modern village where Latino talent finds space, support, and opportunity. For those interested in becoming part of this project, visit www.lighthouse1893.org.
From here we say: Support Local!