Our Proposal

Paving Paths to Success through Equitable Housing and Support

Founded in 2022 by David, Jonathan, and John, Cre8Innovations emerged from their personal journey of reintegration after years of incarceration. These men of color, once sentenced to life in prison as teenagers, understood the lack of resources and support they faced. With a shared vision, they established Cre8Innovations to empower marginalized student populations seeking higher education, focusing on accessible and supportive housing for former foster youth, formerly incarcerated individuals, and others facing housing instability.

Our Mission

Cre8Innovations is a dynamic nonprofit dedicated to providing affordable, supportive housing along with vital services like financial literacy, academic guidance, health support, mentorship, and community building. We strive to level the playing field, enabling our most marginalized students to thrive in higher education and beyond, thus breaking generational cycles of incarceration, poverty, and housing insecurity.

Why Cre8Innovations?

Our team boasts a powerful blend of experience and expertise:

  • David Carranza brings four years of nonprofit leadership and real estate acumen.

  • Jonathan Dena's background in Alameda County government equips us to collaborate effectively with local authorities.

  • John Lam brings four years of non profit experience, policy and technology and will ensure an intimate connection to the needs of our target community.

Research and Background

Our research reveals alarming disparities at UC Berkeley among underrepresented student populations. A survey reported that 83.33% of Formerly Incarcerated and 80.4% of Former Foster Youth students faced housing insecurity challenges, with 83.33% and 78.6% respectively experiencing homelessness during their UC Berkeley tenure. Nationally, 50% of the homeless population spent time in foster care, and formerly incarcerated individuals are almost ten times more likely to be homeless.

Addressing the Gap

Current housing options for UC Berkeley students fall short, particularly for marginalized populations. Cre8Innovations bridges this gap with our unique program, offering not just housing, but a comprehensive support system:

  • Tailored case managers for individual success.

  • Financial literacy programs for sound decision-making.

  • Academic support and mentorship.

  • Family services and childcare options.

  • Specialized psychological and therapy services.

  • Affordable, safe housing subsidized through strategic funding.

Budget and Timeline

Our first-year budget of $60,000 will assist them in leasing housing near UC Berkeley to provide more affordable housing for students. We aim to secure housing by Spring 2023 semester and are supported by strong partnerships, including organizations specializing in supporting marginalized student populations and housing development.

Social Impact

Cre8Innovations doesn't just offer housing; we provide a transformative opportunity for homeless and system-impacted students. By rehabilitating vacant housing complexes, we contribute to community development while alleviating the affordable housing crisis. Our holistic approach fosters social healing and empowerment, positively impacting individuals, families, and communities.

Join Us

Cre8Innovations invites you to be part of this transformative journey. Together, we can pave the path to success for the most underserved student populations, reshaping narratives and fostering lasting change. Join us in building a future where every student can thrive, regardless of their past.