My Story: Daisy Latimore

July 6, 2010 | Subscribe to "My Story" | Subscribe on iTunes

 

I am the owner and operator of The Chocolate Box. In the year 2000, I was being downsized from corporate America for the third time. I wanted to start my own business. I had already been doing gift baskets as a hobby, and someone told me about the Business NOW program at Goodwill Industries® of North Georgia (Atlanta).

The program teaches you how to write a business plan, how to develop your business, and how to do research and development. As part of my business plan, I wanted to add chocolates with my gift baskets and, in May, I opened my first retail location.

My business will be one that will give back to the community. I will do fundraising with Newton County and the surrounding areas. I will have a straight-A program, in which students who get straight As on their report card will get a free marshmallow. I will have teacher appreciation for teachers that come in to get a free coupon.

Goodwill® has been with me through the ups and downs. I got sick, and I had to go get a part-time job. They understand that life really happens and they encourage you through the whole thing.

I just graduated from a new Goodwill program called MicroMAX. That program takes you to the next level when you’re ready to start hiring and creating jobs. It was perfect timing for me, because I am ready to start creating jobs.

Hear more stories from people like Daisy.»

 

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8 Comments

1. Susan Gabriel July 6th, 2010 at 7:52 pm

   Daisy,
   Congratualtions on sticking with your business and getting to the level of being ready to hire an employee. I applaud you efforts to give back to the community.
2. Daisy July 12th, 2010 at 1:26 pm

   Thank you so much Susan.
3. Felicia Walker July 12th, 2010 at 10:40 pm

   Dear Daisy,
   Great job making your dreams a reality.
   I  have a small business as well, what tips would you give me?

   have a great day,

   Respectfully,

   Felicia Walker
4. Kati Carson July 18th, 2010 at 5:17 pm

   OMG Daisy!  Congratulations!!!!  I am so proud of you!! I knew you could do it and I am so glad to see that you are still hanging in there!  Don’t know if you remember me, but we graduated from the same class. 
5. Jackie August 11th, 2010 at 2:14 am

   Wonderful story and great product!  I was lucky enough to receive a sample at a recent event.  Keep the inspirations going!!