Thank you for checking out this fundraiser. My name is Nick and I'm 31. I've been in the food industry for a little over 10 years(essentially since out of high school) as well as an avid home cook since 14, and it's been my aspiration to have my own food business. In this case I've decided on a southern comfort stand. I've worked from dishwasher, maintenance, prep, grill cook etc. from fast food, restaurants, private companies and so on. For the last 5 years I've been researching, learning, planning, and saving to accomplish this. However, even with my wife and I working, I'm sure we all know how difficult it can be to save toward your big goals. Family emergencies, car problems, medical issues, along with all of life's other possible crises it can throw, aren't easy to continue to support even when doing your most. With our income, savings and what loan we could get we are still short, but not by much! Which is where we could use your help!
My mission with my business is to not only provide for me and my wife while doing what I love, but for my family and community as well. This is my American dream as a young entrepreneur. As someone with a passion for food and food operation, I aim to deliver delicious, affordable dishes, right in the heart of downtown where the community comes together. Whether around the Christmas tree that's put up around the fountain at the end of every November or the monthly art walk, I want to contribute to their great experiences. Food is not only necessary, but an amazing core part of the memories we make. The taste when you're reminded of something grandma used to make, the memory of the best July 4th when you smell mesquite BBQ at the neighbors house. I grew up here in Conway Arkansas for the better half of my life and have come to love this city deeply. The roads I know like the back of my hand, the school I graduated from, the place where a large portion of my family lives and even went to college in their youth. This isn't just my dream business, but a way I can finally be a major part of the community I grew up with and love. Sharing classic recipes and my own creations alike with the community. Partnering with local produce farmers, giving back to our shelters like the Bethlehem House, supporting church,school and college events. That is what I envision this business to be.
Five years of planning have culminated in being knowledgeable on: what permits are required, zoning, menu budgets, insurance, equipment and operating costs. I've spoken with city, zoning and health department clerks, gotten certified(or re-certified) in all necessary fields. I'm also ready to register as an Llc. All this to say, I am as prepared as anyone could be, but just short of the goal so close in sight. If you've ever been just a few steps away from something big in your life I'm sure you know the feeling. If you've read this far I thank you greatly, if you are able to donate it means more than the world to me. This will be a life changing moment in not just my life, but to those closest to me as well. Again, thank you to anyone who viewed this, it means a lot if you care to share this with anyone who supports small, community forward businesses and family.
