I’ve managed and owned retail and wholesale businesses for over 35 years. 

 

                                         Recently I managed both a retail store and  the related social services program for a nonprofit                                                                        organization in New Jersey.This program offered training for job seekers with disabilities. Due to                                                                    changes in the way these types of nonprofits are paid, the store had to close.

 

                                         I decided to  grab a silver lining for myself so I moved back to LA to be closer to family and to carve

                                         out a future in the sun.

I've owned and operated a wholesale warehouse in Los Angeles and retail stores in Santa Barbara and Cape Cod. I transitioned from family owned businesses to becoming an assistant manager for two major retail chains, specializing in visual merchandising

 

This business experience combined with a background in design has resulted in a wide industry specific knowledge base to share with businesses, nonprofits and individuals.

 

One of my greatest strengths is training, developing and coaching a wide diversity of employees with patience, compassion and respect. Because I’m a “golden rule” type manager, I had to find a way to meet and exceed industry deadlines without the usual fear and intimidation tactics. I was able to succeed by developing a quick appraisal of the unique strengths of individual associates and motivating them through presenting tasks in a way that would appeal to their personal goals.

This business experience and my related training methods allowed me to explore the next transition in retail when I began working for a nonprofit organization in New Jersey. "It’s all good" was both a retail store specializing in off price women’s clothing and a training program that offered hands on experience to job seekers with disabilities. I created individualized training programs, setting goals that would address current industry trends and offer long term benefits.

 

In addition, I created and implemented a series of "Let Your Voice be Heard!" workshops at Matheny Hospital & Educational Center in Peapack, NJ. Together we developed websites that highlighted individual goals, talents, and personalities. These inspiring students and the amazing staff at this outstanding facility was enriching beyond words.

 

I feel very fortunate to be working with the Somerville Business and Professional Association in a remote position. I'm their facebook admin and create email campaigns using Mail Chimp. In light of all that's going on in the world I began blogging. I comment on news from a conservative point of view. All posts on IMOwired.com. are thoroughly researched and offer links to credible sources.

 

I also offer coaching to job seekers with disabilities to start their own online business. See the MYabilities tab.

 

If you'd like more information please contact me at 413-242-2611 (PST) or email dga2611@yahoo.com