Original article published on PhilPost by Lydia Solis
Photos by Lydia V. Solis & Merwynn Montenegro
RIVERSIDE – FACCTC, The Filipino American Chamber of Commerce Tri-County (Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties) under the leadership of President Jv Libunao and his three VP’s – Anthony Lopez (Los Angeles), Chirho Garcia (Riverside) and John Fleming (San Bernardino) has launched a mentorship program dubbed ‘Legacy Project’ on July 10, 2025, at the LETO Financial and Insurance Services office, which is “not a multi-level marketing agency,” says President and CEO Tony Gutierrez.
Jeanette Burton, FACCTC Legacy Project Director
“The Legacy Project,” Jv stated, “sponsored by the Southern California Edison, Real Property Management Fairmate, and LETO Financial & Insurance Services, is a mentorship program developed by FACCTC together with One IE designed to propel early-stage startup members to the next level. This program offers essential guidance to emerging entrepreneurs through a unique blend of resources. The goal of the project is to gain expert guidance, develop core business skills, build a powerful network, and cultivate future leaders.”
Jeanette Burton, FACCTC Legacy Project Director
The Legacy Project is a brainchild of Board Director Jeannette Burton of Burton Photography.
“No one gets to success without someone that believes in you,” she said. “When I came to FACCTC nine years ago, invited by Carmela (Giliberto, past president), it was the best experience I’d ever had. You are all family,” she added during the meeting at the LETO office. “Thank you for seeing past color and seeing into my heart. I will always be grateful, and this (FACCTC) will always be my home, as we build and grow together for the next generation.”
James Spee, PhD, explains the SLAM process
Another invited speaker was Dr. James Spee, Acting Executive Director, ONE/ie, which supports entrepreneurs and promotes entrepreneurial thinking in the Inland Empire. He’s a Professor at the University of Redlands School of Business & Society + Environmental Studies Department, College of Arts & Sciences.
“SLAM,” he said, “stands for Startup Launch Assistance Map. The SLAM diagram is a simple tool that helps people with a startup idea (or a new business) think clearly about the most important steps to succeed. It includes two parts: An 8-step SLAM diagram we will start with in September.”
Once the group finishes with the SLAM diagram, participants will cover the ‘8-step GRAND diagram.’
“These tools,” added Dr. Spee, “are made for people with new ideas, people working on side projects, and entrepreneurs.” According to Prof. Spee, those tools will help “check if your idea can work by following a clear, step-by-step process; and make a strong plan to turn your idea into a real business. This way, you don’t miss any important steps and you give your startup the best chance to succeed.” (References: Startup Launch Assistance Map by Jon Warner. https://a.co/d/fv5FsFe. There’s also the You Tube video on SLAM available at https://youtu.be/Xv_2JtDv2Ko?si=bkgprZGOhwrugrEj).
He ended his remarks with “I am very excited to be working with FACC Tri-County on this project.”
For more information, check Dr. Spee’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-spee-1116463/ or call him at 1-909-997-1152.