At Pacific Ridge Builders, we’re more than just commercial builders—we’re dedicated to creating spaces where businesses thrive and people come first. In honor of Black History Month, we brought the PRB team together on a day that embodies respect, love, and kindness—Valentine’s Day.
Over coffee from Nirvana Soul and treats from The Giving Pies, we took a moment to connect, reflect, and support local businesses that make a difference in our community. It was a well-deserved break, a little indulgence, and a whole lot of heart. Because at the core of everything we build, it’s always about people. ❤️
Learn more about these local, black-owned businesses.
From Passion to Purpose: The Story of the Giving Pies
By Voahangy Rasetarinera
Black History Month is a time to celebrate resilience, entrepreneurship, and the power of giving back. My journey—rooted in faith, determination, and community—reflects these values.
Born and raised in France to immigrant parents from Madagascar, I grew up with a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and a love for food. After moving to the United States, I built a career in IT, but my heart was drawn elsewhere. I longed to create something meaningful—something that would not only nourish people but also serve the community.
In 2019, I launched The Giving Pies, a small business with a big mission: to spread kindness through food. From day one, I committed to donating a portion of every sale to local causes, including an E-Sports program for the special needs community, school fundraisers, and my signature “Pie-It-Forward” initiative. During the pandemic, I baked and donated 695 pies to frontline workers, a moment that reinforced my belief in the power of generosity.
You may have heard about my business last year when I found myself at the center of a controversy with Tesla. What started as an exciting opportunity to provide pies for their employees turned into a painful experience when the order was abruptly canceled under circumstances that left me feeling dismissed and disrespected. The overwhelming support from the community that followed reminded me why I do what I do. It wasn’t just about pies—it was about standing up for small businesses, for Black-owned businesses, and for the principle that we all deserve to be treated with dignity and fairness.
As a Black woman business owner, I understand the struggles of starting small and pushing forward despite challenges. There have been setbacks, moments of doubt, and financial hurdles—but I refuse to let fear hold me back. My business is not just about pies; it’s about creating opportunities, empowering others, and showing that success is measured by impact, not just income.
This Black History Month, I reflect on the generations before me who paved the way through resilience and sacrifice. Their stories fuel my determination to keep going, to uplift my community, and to inspire others—especially young Black women—to pursue their dreams without waiting for permission.
My journey is proof that small beginnings can lead to big change. Whether it’s a pie, a kind gesture, or a shared story, we all have the power to leave a legacy that matters.