The faith to keep going

Community Action Committee of the Lehigh Valley, Inc.

Miguel Nieves

Miguel Nieves grew up in the impoverished town of Catano, Puerto Rico. After leaving school in the eighth grade to work at odd jobs, he married and had four children, three boys and a girl. These were tough, stressful years for Miguel who turned to alcohol and drugs, eventually becoming an addict. His addiction led to a serious illness and two bouts in a rehabilitation facility which showed little promise. Eventually, Miguel says, he "came clean with God in my heart" and overcame his addiction.

Leaving his troubled past behind, Miguel, then 35 years old, moved with his wife and children to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to start a new life. They found subsidized housing and Miguel got work with a painting contractor but his health soon deteriorated. He received medical treatment at a local hospital and, with the help of a social worker, applied for federal and state help while he regained his health and stamina. Despite tremendous fatigue and illness, Miguel, who disliked having too much free time, "kept myself going everyday" by working odd jobs to earn extra money.

When Miguel was 43, his pastor told him about the Community Action Development Corporation of Bethlehem (CADCB), a separately-incorporated subsidiary of the Community Action Committee of the Lehigh Valley, Inc. (CACLV). He went to CADCB where the staff referred him to their business classes at Lehigh University's Small Business Development Center since Miguel had always dreamed of owning his own business. However, he stayed only a short time because he felt self-conscious and had difficulty comprehending what was being said.  

Miguel returned to CADCB a year later when he learned that the organization offered its own Start Your Business classes for neighborhood residents. This time, Miguel, comfortable with other Spanish speaking students, completed the class and, with cleaning experience, started his own cleaning business. Miguel said, "That is what I know I can do."

However, Miguel was unable to write, particularly in English, and had no idea what was involved in completing and filing required paperwork. Erlinda Agron, the project director at CADCB, assisted Miguel with registering his new business, Maldonado Cleaning Services, named in honor of Miguel's grandfather.

Since starting his business in 2001, Miguel has relied on CADCB for technical support. CADCB staff helped him prepare invoices and estimates until he learned to operate a computer. He now manages his own billing and finances. Miguel has also relied on CADCB staff to interpret and explain official correspondence. Most recently, CADCB helped Miguel become certified as a minority business enterprise in the state of Pennsylvania. He says CADCB is his "protector" and is "very grateful that this organization has helped me and supported me all of this time."

Maldonado Cleaning Services is stable and its future is bright. Miguel says that he works very hard, treats people well and respects their property and their feelings. Among the clients of Maldonado Cleaning Services are CADCB and its parent organization, CACLV. Miguel sums up the secret of his success very simply. "My faith keeps me going."

CACDB project director Ellen Larmer observes, "Miguel never complains, looks back, or feels sorry for his circumstances. His business and personal successes have enabled him to support himself, his wife and children, and his grandchildren. He is a fine, positive example for others."

Community Action Committee of the Lehigh Valley, Inc. creates and maximizes the resources necessary for individuals and families of Lehigh and Northampton counties to achieve self-sufficiency.