While New Roots is a new organization dedicated to advancing economic opportunities for underserved communities, our staff have been accomplishing this work for over a decade. Looking back at some of our accomplishments provides motivation and direction for our work. When I asked staff which moments typified our impact, many came back to Wafa's diner in Tacoma. He was a refugee from Egypt who had experience working as a chef, and wanted to open a restaurant but lacked the credit and capital to start. The Jump Start Fund, a precursor to New Roots, provided Wafa with a small loan to help stregthen his business and attract more customers. His story resonated with people, and we decided that a short video would help those who are unfamiliar with our work connect with the people we serve.