Hello Everyone!
I am finally finished with my site (well at least for the moment)! I thought I would never finish, but there is hope after all. I was only able to feature 12 products which is small in comparison to all of the different products I have in inventory.
I know everyone was hoping I would finish soon so I could get back to the blog! This brings me to my next insert for the Trailblazer series. I would like to introduce Trina Pratt of HOPE Development Services. Trina was gracious enough to share some of her experience in starting a non-profit organization. I hope you enjoy…
Q: When and why did you decide to change directions with your career?
Trina: For years I wanted to do something more than my previous position so I decided to try a career that was rewarding internally yet would help the community. In 2005, I made it official and start working after hours toward my future career choice.
Q: Tell us what your organization is about and what is your mission?
Trina: HOPE Development Services’ mission is to inspire and enable individuals to reach their full potential through meaningful programs and services that will unite and impact a stronger and healthier community.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish with your business over the next few years?
Trina: Our goal is to inform and educate our community with resources, services, and to better our community. We do this by assisting with grants, paperwork for start up businesses, educational programs for youth and adults with interviewing, money management, etc.
Q: What obstacles have you faced in starting your organization?
Trina: My obstacles have been in marketing our services to those who are in need of it the most in these tough economical times. Although we have clients who hear about our services, most people do not act on their dreams and goals and put their desires on a shelf and tend to dust them off from time to time.
Q: If someone is interested in the business or your services, how can they contact you?
Trina: They can e-mail me at HOPEdServices@gmail.com or mail us at HOPE Development Services, PO Box 77661, Greensboro, NC 27417.
Q: What advice would you give someone trying to start their own non-profit organization?
Trina: My advice is to do your homework. Research and find out if their is a need for your product or services in the area. Also, reinvest in your company for at least 3 years. Make a strategic and financial plan to stay in business for years.
Thank you so much Trina for sharing with us! We wish you much success with HOPE Development Services. I am sure a lot of people can benefit from your services.
