I am so lucky to have met Noel who not only is one of most caring giving people I've ever met, she is also extremely dedicated and driven to her cause, Operation Prom. Operation Prom is a resource for students in need. Services are available to children in financial need, those who are homeless, sick, or disabled. School supplies and scholarships are available in addition to regular donations of Prom dresses and tuxedos.
*****It came to my attention this week that Operation Prom is losing their space in New Rochelle. If you're looking to make end of year donations please consider donating to Operation Prom follow this link to donate.***
*****It came to my attention this week that Operation Prom is losing their space in New Rochelle. If you're looking to make end of year donations please consider donating to Operation Prom follow this link to donate.***
What was the moment in your life that inspired you to start your business?
I was an event planner in college and met several bridesmaids who had dresses they would never wear again. I thought bridesmaid dresses would make the perfect prom dress. So, I reached out to my former HS and found out that there were 3 girls that were homeless that year (2004). I brought the dresses to them and was inspired to start Operation PROM.
Is there a woman in business that inspires you?
Yes, Lisa Vitiello was my boss when I worked for her at State Farm Insurance. I was 18 years old at the time, and she was in her early 30's, already a successful business woman, well liked by everyone. I was taught all of my business skills from her - and people skills too. She was a great teacher - better than any business class you could ever take. She taught me so much about sales, marketing, and how to build relationships with customers. Today, we remain friends, and she is a board member for Operation PROM.
Where do you see your business in the next year? In the next five years? The next ten years?
Operation PROM continues to grow every year. This year we added another state, bringing us to chapters in 8 states across the US.
We will also run our first fashion camp this summer in New Rochelle, NY, and hope to expand it to other areas in the coming years.
What are the biggest issues for running this business?
Since we are 100% non-profit, it is challenging to stretch our resources. No one takes a salary at Operation PROM. Everyone is a volunteer. It may sound like that could be an issue, but we are fortunate to have very reliable and dedicated volunteers who go above and beyond.
Please head over and give her page a "like" Operation Prom
Operation PROM
914-633-1600
www.operationprom.org
