One sneaker fanatic in Southeast D.C. is using his passion to improve his circumstances.
Alfonzo Gregory, 20, started a sneaker repair business in hopes of moving to a better neighborhood. He takes damaged shoes and gives them a fresh start, much like the one he wants.
Gregory said he learned the trade by watching YouTube videos. But he isn’t just doing this to improve his own life. Gregory said he also wants to help his family.
"I’m giving my nephews and my sisters something to look up to, showing them the dream can be achieved," he said.
Gregory learned his entrepreneurial skills at D.C. Community Carrot, a mentorship program that provides pathways to middle class lives for low-income youth in the area.
D.C. Community Carrot said their young entrepreneurs receive guidance on how to create and implement business plans. In turn, they are able to keep 100 percent of their business’s profit.
To donate to D.C. Community Carrot and help young entrepreneurs like Gregory, visit their website.
