AMERICUS — The Sumter County Chamber of Commerce has announced the February 2018 “Business of the Month” — New Horizons Habitat for Humanity. The Small Business of the Month program is designed to spotlight a member business each month that does an exceptional job of serving its customers and the community. John Stovall, chair of the Business Development Division, states, “Small businesses are a vital part of our community and we want to be able to recognize them for their contributions. We feel this program can help shine a light on a successful business as well as commend them for their commitment to the Chamber and the community.”
New Horizons Habitat for Humanity was founded by Millard Fuller who believed that everyone deserved a decent place to live. Habitat for Humanity was birthed right here in Americus in 1976, and continues with this vision today, eradicating poverty housing. Today Habitat for Humanity International serves as a global organization with over 1,500 affiliates worldwide.
New Horizons Habitat for Humanity enjoys serving the rural communities and supporting families to achieve a dream they may not have had otherwise. This organization serves Sumter, Terrell, Macon, Schley, Webster, and Marion counties. Lori Gadson, executive director stated, “there is no other gratification like seeing the smiles on the families’ faces once their home is dedicated to them. They become overwhelmed with a feeling of accomplishment and a sense of belonging.”
The Chamber asked Gadson what advice she would give to someone thinking about starting their own business. Gadson remarked, “In general terms, my advice would be to research the needs of the community to find an impactful niche. I whole-heartedly believe that the recipe for prolonged success, is simply to offer a consistent, exceptional products and services.”
The purpose of the Business Development Division is to establish a platform for innovative thinking and policy education to support entrepreneurial and business growth; and to provide increased exposure and opportunity through training, mentoring and networking. To learn more about the Business Development division and its program of work, as well as our five other divisions, please contact the Chamber at chamber@sumtercountychamber.com to get involved.