Erica Lara is our new Social Enterprise Manager. She will lead initiatives that create meaningful employment pathways as part of our Home Start Thrift Boutique and Bright Futures Candles, strengthening the San Diego community.
Guided by a lifelong commitment to service, Erica has built her career in the social enterprise sector, where she has seen firsthand how supportive employment can reveal and reinforce the talents of individuals breaking through barriers to work. She feels deeply aligned with Home Start’s mission of empowering families, breaking cycles of poverty, and protecting children, and is proud to contribute her expertise to the team.
Erica earned her degree in Sociology from San Francisco State University. She brings extensive experience working with diverse populations, including individuals who have been formerly incarcerated, opportunity youth, youth with disabilities, and those who have experienced homelessness. Throughout her career, she has pioneered long-term business growth by designing and executing sustainable program models, mentoring management teams, and collaborating with funders on strategic planning.
Among her achievements, Erica has successfully revamped social enterprise business lines to optimize profitability while establishing equitable and transparent compensation structures for participants. She has also driven operational strategies that increased efficiency and advanced equity across programs. A San Diego native, Erica spent ten years in the Bay Area before returning home.
Outside of work, she enjoys running, picnics, and watching sunsets. She also shares life with her two beloved pugs, Onyx and Ivory.