founder

I’m Laura L. Chavez, founder of Raíces Detroit, a culturally rooted consulting and community impact firm based in Southwest Detroit. Raíces was born from my lived experience and a deep responsibility to give back to the community that shaped me. Our work focuses on dismantling systemic barriers and connecting families, small businesses, youth, and nonprofits to resources, opportunity, and advocacy across Southeast Michigan.

I bring more than 15 years of leadership experience across the nonprofit, corporate, and public sectors, with a focus on organizational transformation, community-led economic development, and cross-sector collaboration. I’ve led complex initiatives ranging from emergency response and family stabilization efforts to large-scale economic development projects, including the nearly $30 million La Joya Gardens development, which delivered affordable housing and entrepreneurial space in Southwest Detroit.

Raíces Detroit reflects my belief that solutions must be culturally responsive, community-informed, and rooted in trust. Through this work, I support nonprofits in building capacity, help small businesses navigate systems not designed for them, and advocate alongside families during moments of crisis and transition. Whether coordinating relief efforts, activating local businesses, or advising organizations on strategy and sustainability, my approach is hands-on, relational, and grounded in dignity.

In addition to Raíces Detroit, I serve as Managing Director of Per Scholas Detroit, where I lead workforce development efforts at a historic moment as the organization celebrates 30 years of national impact. I also serve as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for WAY Academy and as a board member of TechTown Detroit, Chamber Music Society of Detroit, and Prospanica Detroit.

My work has been recognized with the Game Changer Award and the Clement Kern Social Impact Award (2023), as well as the Community Connector Award from the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. I have also received a State Proclamation from Shri Thanedar in recognition of my community leadership and advocacy.

Raíces means roots — and this work is about honoring where we come from while building pathways forward, together.