We’re excited to welcome Geraldine Chavez to the FSWCF Team as our Finance & Operations Manager!
Tell us about yourself and why you are passionate about small business/economic development/entrepreneurship/finance.
I enjoy solving “numerical” puzzles. Every financial equation may have an easy, single answer, but it can be approached in many ways. Sometimes coming at a problem from the right angle can help solve problems and increase available funds at a critical moment. It is very exciting for me when I can use and find that approach. Finance is one of the most important and critical functions for any organization. I am originally from New Mexico and have lived in Colorado for 16 years. I enjoy reading and just being with family.
Why do you think FSWCF’s mission is important?
FSWCF has a primary mission of supporting tangible economic opportunities throughout rural Colorado by making much needed non-traditional capital (loans) available to emerging and existing businesses, which in turn create, retain and grow jobs. Often, it is the FSWCF loan that enables a bank to get to a “yes” while staying within the parameters of its loan policy. By promoting economic development in distressed communities. First Southwest Community Fund helps create and retain jobs while encouraging the development of critical community infrastructure.
I really love how FSWCF supports small businesses, especially women-led businesses. Our customers are really diverse, and I love that we support businesses from across different industries that create and retain jobs in our rural communities. Living in the San Luis Valley, I know how important this is to building our economy.
What will your role at FSWCF entail?
As Finance & Operations Manager, I will manage the overall accounting and bookkeeping for the organization and work closely with the Executive Director to help with development initiatives. As for operations, I will help develop operation initiatives to achieve financials goals as well analyzing and developing organizational procedures to increase efficiency and productivity.
What are you most excited about for your new role?
I love math and problem solving so I’m excited to use these skills to take FSWCF to the next level and support our growth. I’m excited to learn and see how things are ran behind the scenes. I’m looking forward to being able to be apart of an organization that supports small businesses with different cultures and help amplify our impact.