Who We Are
Mano Extendida is a Christian community development organization rooted in the United States and serving communities in Puerto Rico. We mobilize resources from the United States, the Puerto Rican diaspora, and other partners to support locally led initiatives that strengthen families, create jobs, and build long term community resilience.
Our work focuses on key areas that support sustainable community flourishing, including agriculture and food security, affordable housing, workforce development, entrepreneurship and social enterprise, and renewable energy solutions such as solar power and electricity independence.
We also seek to establish a community center where families can gather, build relationships, and access holistic support in a safe and welcoming environment. As trust grows and lives are strengthened, this work may naturally create opportunities for future bilingual church planting.
Mano Extendida is motivated by the teachings of Jesus Christ and guided by biblical values of compassion, dignity, service, and wise stewardship.
Edward & Maribell Rivera
Executive Director | Founders
Our Need Statement
Puerto Rico faces a complex cycle of economic instability, energy insecurity, and dependence on imported goods that continues to limit opportunity for many families and communities. The island imports the majority of its food and relies on fragile energy systems that are frequently disrupted by storms, infrastructure failures, and rising costs. At the same time, thousands of working-age residents leave Puerto Rico every year in search of economic stability elsewhere, weakening local economies and reducing opportunities for future generations.
Many communities lack access to the training, mentorship, and resources needed to start sustainable businesses, develop local agriculture, or adopt resilient energy solutions. Without intentional investment in entrepreneurship, workforce development, renewable energy, and community leadership, these challenges continue to compound.
There is a growing need for community-driven initiatives that equip residents with practical tools to build local businesses, strengthen food production, increase energy independence, and cultivate leaders who can guide long-term community renewal.
Mano Extendida PR CDC exists to respond to these needs by empowering individuals, strengthening local economies, and fostering resilient communities through entrepreneurship development, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy education, and community collaboration. By investing in people and local solutions, Mano Extendida seeks to help Puerto Rico move toward a more stable, self-sufficient, and flourishing future.
Puerto Rico doesn’t just need relief. It needs long term investment and opportunity.
Mission Statement
We exist to equip underserved communities in Puerto Rico with the tools, training, and opportunities needed to break cycles of poverty, build sustainable livelihoods, and restore dignity through economic self-sufficiency.
Vision Statement
By 2030, Mano Extendida PR will equip 100 residents to launch businesses, secure meaningful employment, and help rebuild Puerto Rico’s economy from the ground up.
Core Values
Faith
Grounding our work in Christian principles of service, integrity, and love for our neighbors.
Empowerment
Equipping individuals and families with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities needed to build sustainable livelihoods.
Dignity
Honoring the worth and potential of every person while fostering environments where people can thrive.
Stewardship
Responsibly managing resources, land, and energy to strengthen communities today and for future generations.
Collaboration
Partnering with local leaders, churches, entrepreneurs, and organizations to create lasting solutions.
Resilience
Helping communities develop the strength, innovation, and infrastructure needed to overcome challenges and prosper.
Hope
Restoring hope by creating real opportunities for economic growth, stability, and community renewal.
Theory Of Change
If we equip residents in underserved communities across Puerto Rico with entrepreneurship training, mentorship, access to startup capital, and practical solutions,
Then participants will gain the skills, resources, and opportunities needed to launch businesses, increase household income, and create local employment,
So that poverty declines, economic opportunity expands, and communities become more stable, self-sufficient, and resilient. Over time, increased local investment and job creation will reduce outmigration, strengthen families, and contribute to safer neighborhoods and long-term community transformation.