Questions and Answers
Can you start off by introducing yourself?
My name is Marcia Brown (like Marcia Brady). Unofficially, I tell people I’m ‘Hustla Babe’ but officially I’m Founder and Chief Estate Officer for Paradise Estate.
Tell us about Paradise Estate?
Paradise Estate is a social enterprise that provides affordable rental homes to low-income families, mostly through the city’s Section 8 program.
What made you target Section 8 tenants specifically?
The waiting list for families searching for decent homes on the Section waiting list will take years to fill those demands.
Why were you inspired to create Paradise Estate?
It has always been my dream to start a business and I wanted a business that had significance for people. Everyone needs a place to live. But I noticed a lot of people were advertising luxury apartments and homes. Luxury homes are beautiful, but they are also expensive. Not everyone can afford a luxury home. Sometimes people just want a decent place to live.
What is the mission for Paradise Estate?
Helping people is the heart of the business. Our mission is to provide homes to as many low-income families as possible to help alleviate the Section 8 waiting list. There are also several charities that we support or partner with because giving back should be tied into every business model. We are dedicated to maintaining the triple bottom line – people, planet and prosperity.
You mentioned the triple bottom line. Can you elaborate?
I’m an environmentalist. I think it’s our duty, as humans, to protect the planet. I believe that people must live in harmony with the earth and when we do this we all prosper.
How can people live in harmony with the earth?
There there are so many things we can do to protect the earth. Harvest the sun’s renewable energy using solar panels, water conservation by using rain barrels to collect rain water, improving air quality by using all natural products and minimizing household waste thereby reducing waste in the landfills. Some of these topics are featured on the blog page.
How big is Paradise Estate at the moment?
At the moment, we are a small business but we have made a big impact by helping several families so far.
What challenges do you face as a small business?
Funding is always a challenge for small businesses. But I am a firm believer that dreams do come true and God will provide the way. So far I have been supporting the business with personal funds but now I am crowdfunding so I’m currently accepting donations.
What will the funds be used for?
My goal is to help as many families as possible so 100% of the proceeds will purchase additional homes. Ideally, I would like to help an average of ten families every year.
If people wanted to help your cause and donate, what is the best way to do that?
Anyway is the best way to donate, but the easiest way is to hit the donate button below. I accept checks, Paypal, cash, Pounds, Euros. If it’s a currency, I accept it. No donation is too small. If you want to donate a new car I’ll take that too :-)
By the way, where are you located?
Oh, I’m currently in New Jersey but I can purchase homes anywhere.
You are on a serious mission with your business, but; what do you do for fun?
Yes, I’m very serious about my social enterprise. Other than that, I love adventure, exploring new places, trying different foods, bumming it at the beach or simply hanging out with friends and family. I know it sounds corny but I find joy in everything I do. My biggest joy is giving. I’ve designed my life the way I want it and I’m just happy living it.
If people want to learn more about the business, how can they get in touch with you?
They can see more of me on Facebook/paradisetribe or simply email me at hello@paradiseestate.us
