Prosperity Center graduates 16 people

Graduates can open small businesses

MOSES LAKE - The Prosperity Center graduated 16 students from Adams, Grant and Lincoln counties earlier this month so they can open their own small businesses.

The graduates attended weekly workshops for six weeks called "Starting Your Own Business," according to the center. During the workshops, participants learned how to create a business plan, find business support services, evaluate business ideas, apply for financial assistance and develop market strategies.

Jeanie Edwards completed the workshops and plans to use her new skills to expand her massage therapy business to serve horses in addition to people.

"In addition to my massage therapy license, I want to get my equine license," Edwards stated. "My goal is to work Monday through Thursday with massage and have the weekends to attend equine functions, therefore targeting a whole new group of massage clients; humans and horses."

She advised her business, Muscles n' Motion, has positively changed since attending the workshops.

"Our country has traditionally been the haven for the small businesses that provide the jobs for most American workers," noted Big Bend Economic Development Council Director Mike Buchanan. "The training provided realistic approaches to plan for a successful business and the beginning of a financial education to operate a business. I encourage each graduate to pursue your dream but remember you have just stared the education process to be a success."

The Prosperity Center is a division of the North Columbia Community Action Council.

For more information about the center, contact Director Candi Allison at 509-765-9206, ext. 250 or callison@nccac.net.