Growing up, both as an entrepreneur and young man, I had many mentors who played key roles into helping shape me into the person I am today. I am forever grateful for them, as they took time to give me and my small business the attention needed at the time.
Because of this, I have made it a mission of mine to help the future generations of entrepreneurs, whether it is globally through the International Franchise Association’s NextGen program or right here at home with the many youth and entrepreneurial programs available to students throughout the community and the region.
That’s why I was so happy to hear about the recent tour of the Edible Arrangements corporate headquarters by students from Ms. Boatright’s Plainville High School class.
As part of the half-day trip, 20 students received a behind-the-scenes look at Edible Arrangements and were able to meet with department leaders in a wide range of business functions within the company, including technology, e-commerce, real estate, finance, marketing, innovation and 
operations. And, of course, they all had a chance to sample our incredible products.
We always look forward to hosting students at our facilities and who knows, some of those students may even be our next Edible Arrangements employees. I hope they walked away with the same level of excitement and entrepreneurial spirit that we work with every day.
Another way that we have supported our youth is through our support of Junior Achievement activities. Last year, I had the honor of being inducted into the Hartford Hall of Fame. It was an honor not only for me and my family but the entire Edible team. In a few weeks, JA will celebrate its 2017 laureates. It is my hope that you will join me in supporting of this important organization or similar organizations in your community as we empower the next generation of leaders and help them reach their full potential.
(0)