ForumsStarting a Business

Winston Churchill said:

Never never never never never ever give up.

Being scared is natural and I have at times wondered "What have I done?" However, here are a few rules to help you out.

Never ever let the *&((*&^*&)*&^'s see you sweat.

Your idea is probably like all the other bad ideas...the light bulb, xerox machine, computer mouse, automobile (you get the idea).

If you are willing to put in your hard earned money...someone else will come alongside as well. Keep talking to everyone you know!

Figure out ways to get your message out that don't cost much. Knock on doors, put up flyers....

You can do this!

Congratulations! And yes, you should be proud of every accomplishment. A little fear is healthy. It keeps you from falling into foolish schemes and sometimes from making destructive decisions. As long as you keep moving forward, your angels will show up to help. We all need your success, because you will help to create a more evolved society.

As an educator, I applaud your organization. I am a college placement consultant and owner of Achievement Works. I can share some thoughts with you about the goals you have for the welfare recipients. There is financial aid and there are scholarships for women who want to return to work. There are also grants and funders for your npo to help you do this work. Go to Foundation Center. There may be one in your area. If not your local library is probably on line with them and can point you to funders interested in what you are doing. There are other grant search groups that your librarian can tell you about. Check with your local community foundation., Most cities have them. If you have set up a network with your local colleges, do so. There is a new interest in the non-traditional learner.

As far as motivating the women is concerned, when you show them the possibilities in real terms, they will rise to meet the opportunity. Lay out for them how your program can work for them, where the scholarships are and how to access financial aid. Even loans are not all bad, because their income will support the repayment once they have graduated. Their lack of current income will make them eligible for low interest. So many colleges now have weekend, and alternative hours for the non-traditional learner and offer financial help for them. Start with the community colleges and cover all of the others in your area.

Move forward because your community needs you. Those women are waiting for you.

Best wishes and have a great holiday!