Courtesy Photo | Madeline Stockman, of Sacramento, Calif. and spouse of Pfc. Edwin Stockman, a medic...... read more read more
FORT HOOD, Texas – The room was abuzz with chatter, prospective entrepreneurs tried their hardest to crack open the secrets of success from “the ones in the colorful shirts.”
They were members of Enactus, a student organization at Central Texas College that strives to create projects in the community to change lively hoods, during the “Be Your Own Boss” seminar that took place Sept. 22-26, at the education center here.
“This was a partnership between us and the Central Texas Business Resource Center to teach military spouses, active duty veterans and gold star families how to start their own business,” said Chastity Clemons, of Chicago, a business professor and Enactus coordinator for Central Texas College. “Each year, Enactus, receives two $1000 grants through Coca Cola and Sam’s Club to help start businesses.”
“The grants require us to find somebody in need,” said Clemons. “Because of the military lifestyle, spouses have a 35% unemployment rate, and vets suffering with PTSD might find working in groups difficult.”
As a result of what people learn in the course, they are able, rather than finding a job, they can own their own business, she added.
For one week, more than twenty participants learned vital skills from business concept development, marketing and advertizing, and business financial principles, said Clemons.
“It’s been an incredible program”, said Madeline Stockman, of Sacramento, Calif. and spouse of Pfc. Edwin Stockman, a medic with 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment. “Going through all the steps and worksheets really made me think about things and fine-tune my idea.”
As a culminating event, class participants presented their business concept to a panel of judges who offered their guidance.
Despite her previous experience on stage, this was a greater challenge.
“When I was younger I did a lot of performing arts, but this was me presenting my heart and soul,” said Mrs. Stockman.
In the end, her preparation was evident as she delivered her concept with ease. She, along with Spc. Anthony Holmes, of Pensacola, Fla., a logistician with 4th Sustainment Brigade, were awarded the grants to help start up their businesses.
Stockman’s husband was beyond proud.
“It’s unbelievable and a dream come true,” said Edwin Stockman. “I hope she has outstanding success.”
Although Madeline Stockman and Holmes look toward to the start of their business in the near future, the rest of the participants aren’t left out in the cold.
Anyone can come by the Enactus office at CTC or the business resource center and make an appointment with our counselors for further assistance, said Clemons.
| Date Taken: | 09.26.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 09.30.2014 12:08 |
| Story ID: | 143778 |
| Location: | FORT HOOD, TX, US |
| Hometown: | CHICAGO, IL, US |
| Hometown: | PENSACOLA, FL, US |
| Hometown: | SACRAMENTO, CA, US |
| Web Views: | 46 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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