EAST ORANGE, N.J. - eTradeWire -- Family Fresh Laundromat LLC, located at 1 Ampere Parkway, has become the first business in Cohort 2 of the East Orange Professional Development Workshop Series to receive Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ) certification.

Owner Rafael Guerrero, an engineer by trade, launched Family Fresh in January 2024 with a vision to create a bilingual, family-run business that serves a real community need. "I've always dreamed of owning a laundromat," said Guerrero. "It supports my family and provides a needed service. UEZ certification helps us grow and serve even more people."

The announcement was made during the May 14 workshop session, part of the city-sponsored series supported by Mayor Ted R. Green, the East Orange City Council, and Director Alycia Cohen of Policy, Planning, and Economic Development.

Mark Cheatam, Manager of Business Development, praised Guerrero's initiative: "Rafael showed up ready. He's a great example of what the UEZ program can do."

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Anna D. Banks, lead facilitator of the workshop series, added, "It's powerful to see someone take action so quickly. Rafael's leadership is contagious."

The UEZ designation offers certified businesses access to state tax benefits, local resources, and business development support. Guerrero said the program has already helped him create stronger ties to the community—especially with Spanish-speaking residents who feel welcomed by his bilingual staff.

"Before this program, I didn't even know about the UEZ," said Guerrero. "Now, I have tools and support to build a legacy with my family."

For more information about Family Fresh Laundromat LLC, visit https://familyfreshlaundromat.com/

Cohort 3 Starts September 2025

Cohort 2 continues through June, but registration is now open for Cohort 3, beginning September 2025.

📩 To learn more or register:
East Orange Department of Policy, Planning, and Economic Development
📧 Economic.Development@eastorange-nj.gov