When we talk about business, we all understand that the basic objective of what we’re doing is trying to make money. Implicit in this understanding is an assumption that we’re trying to make money for ourselves. Or our company. But there are people who dedicate themselves, and their careers, to making money for others. Other people. Other companies. And even whole communities.

Rick Fontova has spent over a quarter of a century in the oil and gas business. At the end of his 22 years at Shell, Rick was Vice President of the Americas for Exploration and Production. Rick went on to hold a series of other high-level positions in oil and gas, and today he’s the Chairman and CEO of NXT Energy Services. NXT is Rick’s own company, and its dedicated to finding other companies in the energy sector that are promising but in need of support, in the form of investment and expertise. Rick is also co-founder of Acadiana Angels, who invest in local entrepreneurial startups. 

Alex Lazard is dedicated to improving both the financial and spiritual well-being of individuals, and of his community. Alex is the Lead Ministry Director of the Destiny of Faith Church. Destiny of Faith is headquartered in the Truman neighborhood. It’s been in existence for almost 17 years, it has 1,200 members, and an impressive, new, 45,000 square feet, state of the art church. The church’s mission is to increase spiritual growth and economic growth through new business and job creation; and social growth through personal development.

Photos at Marcello’s Wine Market and Cafe by Lucius Fontenot.