Archive for December, 2007

HOW TO RAISE MONEY FOR STARTING A BUSINESS

The task of raising money for a business is not as difficult as most people seem to think. This is especially true when you have an idea that can make you and your backers rich. Actually, there’s more money available for new business ventures than there are good business ideas.

A very important rule of the game to learn: Anytime you want to raise money, your first move should be to put together a proper prospectus.

This prospectus should include a resume of your background, your education, training, experience and any other personal qualities that might be counted as an asset to your potential success. It’s also a good idea to list the various loans you’ve had in the past, what they were for, and your history in paying them off.

You’ll have to explain in detail how the money you want is going to be used. If it’s for an existing business, you’ll need a profit and loss record for at least the preceding six months, and a plan showing how this additional money will produce greater profits. If it’s a new business, you’ll have to show your proposed business plan, your marketing research and projected costs, as well as anticipated income figures, with a summary for each year, over at least a three year period.

It’ll be advantageous to you to base your cost estimates high, and your income projections on minimal returns. This will enable you to “ride thru” those extreme “ups and downs” inherent in any beginning business. You should also describe what makes your

business unique – how it differs from your competition, and the opportunities for expansion or secondary products.

This prospectus will have to state precisely what you’re offering the investor in return for the use of his money. He’ll want to know the percentage of interest you’re willing to pay, and whether monthly, quarterly or on an annual basis. Are you offering a certain percentage of the profits? A percentage of the business? A seat on your board of directors?

An investor uses his money to make more money. He wants to make as much as he can, regardless whether it’s a short term or long term deal. In order to attract him, interest him, and persuade him to “put up” the money you need, you’ll not only have to offer him an opportunity for big profits, but you’ll have to spell it out in detail, and further, back up your claims with proof from your marketing research.

Venture investors are usually quite familiar with “high risk” proposals, yet they all want to minimize that risk as much as possible. Therefore, your prospectus should include a listing of your business and personal assets with documentation – usually copies of your tax returns for the past three years or more. Your prospective investor may not know anything about you or your business, but if he wants to know, he can pick up his telephone and know everything there is to know within 24 hours. The point here is, don’t ever try to “con” a potential investor. Be honest with him. Lay all the facts on the table for him. In most cases, if you’ve got a good idea and you’ve done your homework properly, an “interested investor” will understand your position and offer more help than you dared to ask.

When you have your prospectus prepared, know how much money you want, exactly how it will be used, and how you intend to repay it, you’re ready to start looking for investors.

As simple as it seems, one of the easiest ways of raising money is by advertising in a newspaper, online business directories or a national publication featuring such ads. Your ad should state the amount of money you want – always ask for more money than you need so you have room

for negotiating. Your ad should also state the type of business involved (to separate the curious from the truly interested), and the kind of return you’re promising on the investment.

Take a page from the party plan merchandisers. Set up a party and invite your friends over. Explain your business plan, the profit potentials, and how much you need. Give them each a copy of your prospectus and ask that they pledge a thousand dollars as

a non-participating partner in your business. Check with the current tax regulations. You may be allowed up to 25 partners in Sub Chapter 5 enterprises, opening the door for anyone to gather a group of friends around himself with something to offer them in return for their assistance in capitalizing his business.

You can also issue and sell up to $300,000 worth of stock in your company with out going through the Federal Trade Commission. You’ll need the help of an attorney to do this, however, and of course a good tax accountant as well wouldn’t hurt.

It’s always a good idea to have an attorney and an accountant help you make up your business prospectus. As you explain your plan to them, and ask for their advice, casually ask them if they’d mind letting you know of, or steer your way any potential investors they might happen to meet. Do the same with your banker. Give him a copy of your prospectus and ask him if he’d look it over and offer any suggestions for improving it, and of course, let you know of any potential investors. In either case, it’s always a good idea to let them know you’re willing to pay a “finder’s fee” if you can be directed to the right investor.

Professional people such as doctors and dentists are known to have a tendency to join occupational investment groups. The next time you talk with your doctor or dentist, give him a prospectus and explain your plan. He may want to invest on his own or

perhaps set up an appointment for you to talk with the manager of his investment group. Either way, you win because when you’re looking for money, it’s essential that you get the word out to as many potential investors as possible.

Don’t overlook the possibilities of the Small Business Investment Companies in your area. Look them up in your telephone book under “Investment Services.” These companies exist for the sole purpose of lending money to businesses which they feel have a good chance of making money. In many instances, they trade their help for a small interest in your company.

Many states have Business Development Commissions whose goal is to assist in the establishment and growth of new businesses. Not only do they offer favorable taxes and business expertise, most also offer money or facilities to help a new business get

started. Your Chamber of Commerce is the place to check for further information on this idea.

Industrial banks are usually much more amenable to making business loans than regular banks, so be sure to check out these institutions in your area. Insurance companies are prime sources of long term business capital, but each company varies its policies regarding the type of business it will consider. Check your local agent for the name and address of the person to contact. It’s also quite possible to get the directors of an other company to invest in your business. Look for a company that can benefit from your product or service. Also, be sure to check at your public library for available foundation grants. These can be the final answer to all your money needs if your business is perceived to be related to the objectives and activities of the foundation.

Finally, there’s the Money Broker or Finder. These are the people who take your prospectus and circulate it with various known lenders or investors. They always require an up-front or retainer fee, and there’s no way they can guarantee to get you the loan or the money you want.

There are many very good money brokers, and there are some that are not so good. They all take a percentage of the gross amount that’s finally procured for your needs. The important thing is to check them out fully; find out about the successful loans or investment plans they’ve arranged, and what kind of investor contacts they have – all of this before you put up any front money or pay any retainer fees.

There are many ways to raise money – from staging garage sales to selling stocks. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that the only place you can find the money you need is through the bank or finance company.

Start thinking about the idea of inviting investors to share in your business as silent partners. Think about the idea of obtaining financing for a primary business by arranging financing for another business that will support the start-up, establishment and development of the primary business. Consider the feasibility of merging with a company that’s already organized, and with facilities that are compatible or related to your needs. Give some thought to the possibilities of getting the people supplying your production equipment to co-sign the loan you need for start-up capital.

Remember, there are thousands upon thousands of ways to obtain business start-up capital. This is truly the age of creative financing.

Disregard the stories you hear of “tight money,” and start making phone calls, talking to people, and making appointments to discuss your plans with the people who have money to invest. There’s more money now than there’s ever been for new business

investment. The problem is that most beginning “business builders” don’t know what to believe or which way to turn for help. They tend to believe the stories of “tight money,” and they set aside their plans for a business of their own until a time when start-up money might be easier to find.

The truth is this: Now is the time to make your move. Now is the time to act. The person with a truly viable business plan, and determination to succeed, will make use of every possible idea that can be imagined. And the ideas I’ve suggested here should serve as just a few of the unlimited sources of monetary help available and waiting for you!your banker. Give him a copy of your prospectus and ask him if he’d look it over

You should consider the SBA for help in your business venture

This link above is in North Carilina, but you can find one near you.

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HOME BUSINESS GUIDE TO EARNING AN INCOME

Because tens of thousands of people all across America want to know how they can work at home and earn enough money to run a household, there is a special need for this report. Today the need for women to work out of the home is stronger than ever. According to recent surveys, almost 70% are married and contribute up to 50% and more to the family income. Because family responsibilities play such an important part in the lives of men and women, millions of individuals and couples are seeking ways to make money at home.

In the past decade money-making, home-based opportunities that match a person’s skills, interests, abilities, and ingenuity have become almost limitless. The purpose of this report is to show you that it’s simple and easy to join the ranks of success-minded people by choosing a work-at-home program that suits your interests and needs. Business histories have shown over and over again that the rewards and advantages of working at home can go far beyond a person’s wildest dreams! In fact, it’s perfectly possible to launch a small business in your garage, backyard, basement, or a room in your home, and become a giant corporation.

Your first step will be to study the company listings in this report, and then contact those that interest you. It’s possible that you may not be interested in many of those listed in this brief report. But others may serve as that great motivator that makes you look further with a renewed determination. Once you develop that mind-set, persistence will follow and the nothing will stop you from achieving your goals.

When you write to any of the companies listed in this report, you should incllude a self-addressed, stamped enbelope. That will give the impression you are serious and insure that you receive a speedy reply.

BECOME A GOAL SETTER!

If you expect any level of success you must set goals. If you expect to be successful, you must determine what that means to you and the best way to achieve it. There are two basic steps you can take to convert goals into achievements: 1) You can decide on a specific dollar amount; and 2) You can set a time frame for obtaining the dollar amount you want. Your goal should be specific and indicate What, When, and Where. After making a list of every possible way you might accomplish a goal, select the method that best suits your situation.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS YOU MUST ASK YOURSELF

1) “How can I support my family while I build up by business?” This question must be worked out according to each individual’ circumstances. Many people start out on a part-time basis after their regular jobs to see how much they can handle. Then when their incomes reach a certain level they will switch over and go full time.

2) “What are my abilities?” To determine your abilities you will have to take an inventory of yourself. Decide what you enjoy doing the most and what you “feel” you would be good ar. Examine every possibility and include every skill you have no matter how slight.

3) “Is there a market for the produce of service I have chosen?” Be cautious before you invest any money! Check it out by making inquiries directly to the company, competitors, or firms who are marketing a product similar to the one you are interested in. Test it on a small scale. Check it out thoroughtly.

4) “How long will it take this business to reach the financial goal I must have?” It’s really a question of knowing how much time you can dedicate to your business, and what your profits are for that time. From there, a little simple addition will tell you how long it might take to reach a particular financial goal.

SUCCESS IS HAVING THE COURAGE TO BEGIN!

Starting a business at home is a economical way to start a small business that can easily grow into a larger one. Many entrepeneurs have proven that you don’t need a huge manufacturing plant to develop a successful business. Some of the most successful businesses in existence today started in a spare room or garage. It isn’t how you start out that is important. What really matters is, do you have the courage to begin.

SELECTING THE RIGHT PRODUCT OR SERVICE

Take a close look at your interests and abilities, and then decide what type of marketing you want to do. For example, do you want to assemble items and sell them back to the manufacturer; do you want to sell directly to people; or would you prefer selling wholesale to retail outlets? If you prefer doing piecework or assembling items for manufacturers, make certain it’s something you enjoy working with. If you enjoy one-on-one-sales, then test the product out on your friends, relatives and neighbors. The object is to find out what has the most appeal.

DEVELOP A GOOD MARKETING TECHNIQUE

A good marketing technique is one part of a business plan that is absolutely essential to its success. In fact, the ability to properly market a product or service is actually more impaortant than the product itself. Even an inferior product can be a financial success if marketed properly. Seek out the advice of everyone in your field. Explain your needs and ask them questions. Experience is the best teacher. With good advice and a salable product, you should be able to develop a winning marketing plan.

FINANCING YOUR HOME-BUSINESS VENTURE

The first place to look for financing is right at home. Take an inventory of items you don’t need and have a garage sale. Most people are pleasantly suprised a how much cash they can raise in a single weekend. Next, turn to members of your family or close friends who have faith in you and want to see you succeed. Offer to repay them through profit-sharing. Go to individuals in your community who believe in your personal worth. If you have a good credit history, your banker should consider you a good financial risk. Two other excellent sources would be your local Small Business Administration (SBA) and Chamber of Commerce.. SBA has low-interest loans available for qualified applicants and your Chamber of Commerce can assist you with referrals and other helpful information.

WORK-AT-HOME OPPORTUNITIES

ARE EVERYWHERE!

Anyone who is serious about work-at-home oportunities need only look around them. There are thousands of options everywhere! There are employment opportunities that involve becoming an independent contractor; working on a commission basis; working for a salary; freelancing for pay; getting paid by the hour, receiving pay for each piece assembled; getting paid by the project, or a combination of any of the above. No doubt, what you finally decide on will depend on your particular needs and interests.

Read the following listings carefully, and when you’re ready contact any that interest you. Don’t become discouraged if the company you contact isn’t hiring right at the moment. Often circumstances change rapidly. Use your imagiination to convince an employer there are great advantages to giving you work! Be a self-motivator and continue moving forward towards the goals you want and deserve. Do it starting NOW!

DIRECTORY OF HOME WORKER

INCOME OPPORTUNITIES

LITTLEGUY’S, Box NFP, Winkelman, AZ 85292. If you enjoy making craft items but hate selling them, or are looking for a way to sell more, look no further! This company says they will purchase home-made items from you, or refer you to other companies who are buyers. All types of hobby crafts are considered. Enclose a $0.29 postage stamp when writing for more information.

ELITE ENTERPRISES, P.O. Box 31577, Chicato, IL 60631-0577. Get your share of the billion dollar popcorn market! Elite Enterprises has put together an incredible program for making money that involvess the distribution of one of America’s favorite foods – Popcorn! 56 gourmet flavors of popcorn, to be exact. Write to Robert Doncaster for more information.

SUITCASE BOUTIQUE, 12228 Spring Court Place, Maryland Heights, MO 63043. Suitcase Boutique is a home party. This company buys many types of handcrafted items including stuffed animals, wood crafts, toys, soft sculpture, framed pictures and cross stitch.. Crafters should send a photo an description of their products.

ARBONNE INTERNATIONAL, INC. Direct sales of European cosmetics and skin care products. Representatives build customer bases using any direct sales method that work for them. Training and ongoing managerial support is provided. Pays commission.

CAMEO COUTURES, INC., 9004 Ambassador Row, P.O. Box 47390, Dallas, TX 75247. Home party sales of lingerie, cosmetics and food supplements. Training is provided. Pays commission.

OLSTEN HEALTH CARE SERVICES, Staffing Coordinators. Olsten now has over 300 offices nationwide in its health care services division. Each office has a minimum of two home-based staffing coordinators job-sharing on a seven-days-on, seven-days-off schedule. The jobs consist of taking calls during the day, evenings, and on weekends to dispatch the appropriate personnel for hospital and home health care positions. Some staffing experience or medical background is required. Write to locate the office nearest you then apply directly to that office. Pays weekly salary plus placement bonus.

DREAMCAPES, 2140 E. 7th Place 1, Los Angeles, CA 90021. Put yourself in an exciting new profit picture with this company’s original Dreamscapes, a unique picture of sand and colored liquid that when turned over creates an endless variety of beautiful landscapes. Create mountain, desert,, and beach scenes. It’s facinating, irresistible, mesmerizing, and profitable. Sell them at flea markets, fairs, and anywhere people gather.

Write for more details

HANKINS MARKETING CORP., P.O. Box 16B1, Salisbury, NC 28144. Aching feet is America’s No. 1 medical complaint. Air-Flo Insole is a revolutionary breakthrough that helps. Its patented vacuum principle allows air to enter the insole when the foot is lifted and gradually releases it when the wearer steps down. It’s like walking on air! Learn how you can make up to 160% profit selling this item to individuals, retail and chain stores. Write for details.

NATIONAL COLLEGE OF APPRAISAL & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, 6065 Rosewell Road, Suite 2232, Atlanta, GA 30328.. Become a professional real estate appraiser with this home study course. Study at your own pace. Enjoy excellent income potential, and become financially independent! Write for more information.

PICNIC PROJECTS, P.O. Box 87, Towanda, PA 18848. You can make up to $600 a week or more, building and selling high quality picinic tables. If you enjoy working with wood, contact this company for more details.

VON SCHRADER COMPANY, 1600 Junction Avenue, Racine, WI 53403. If you have ever dreamed of owning your own business, this company may have the perfect opportunity for you. Carpet, upholstery, and wall cleaning are in high demand and the profits are huge! You can offer all three of these services for a fraction of the price a franchise would. Write to them for more information.

CAJUN COUNTRY CANDIES, PO Box 53549, Lafayette, LA 70505-3549. Whoever invented the word “Delicious,” was probably eating Roy Babineaux’s “sweetest ever yet” Cajun Country Candy! This product is a leader when it comes to “selling itself.” One taste and you’re hooked. You could be the first to introduce Roy’s world famous products into your area. Roy has a marketing plan that can make you rich! No inventory is required.

BADGE-A-MINT, 348 North 30th Road, Box 800, LaSalle, IL 6130l. You have seen them worn by people, each with a different message, but have you ever considered the huge profits that are made from button sales? Write for details.

HOLIDAY MAGIC, P.O. Box 882314, San Francisco, CA 94188. This company offers three different products that can be assembled at home. 1) The Christmas Oven Mitt, 2) Chrystal Splendor (a Christmas Ornament), and 3) a Valentine Heart Mini-Pillow. They pay supply costs.Write for Free Details.

SATIN DOLL ENTERPRISES, 78 Water St., Beverly, MA 01915. Earn up to $100 per day with doll lingerie that sells itself. Write for startup information.

TV PROJECTOR COMPANY, 2410 Orchard Road, McHenry, IL 60050. New TV Projector kit turns any TV set into a lifesize 7-foot screen! This is a product that sells on sight for only $20! You make 400% profits fast! Write for more details.

RECOGNITION SERVICES, P.O. Box 30288, Indianapolis, IN 46230. Every business, corporation, institution, church, school and organization is a potential customer of recognition awards. As a representative of this company, you can provide jewelry and custom-made embroidered emblems that include: Lapel pins, medals, medallions, and cloth emblems that are custom made in any shape or color. Write for details.

NAVAJO MANUFACTURING CO., 5801 Logan St., Denver. CO 80216. Navajo Manufacturing is a source of products for retailers that includes fashion and authentic American Indian Jewelry, sunglasses, toys, plush animals, and many other other novelties. Write for more details.

POLISH MASTERS, 364 Ramble Riddge Rd., Thousand Oaks, CA 91360.. Polish Masters will help you become part of the hottest new concept ever to hit the auto appearance industry. With their system you can earn up to $400 per day cleaning and polishing autos, boats, RV’s and airplanes. There is no franchise fee to pay, and they will work with you every step of the way. Write for free details.

CADIE PRODUCTS CORPORATION, 100 Sixth Ave., Paterson, NJ 07524. Involves packaging small items produced by the company. No machinery or experience is required. Pays piece rate.

LUCKY HEART COSMETICS, INC., 138 Hurling Ave., Memphis, TN 38103. Lucky Heart Cosmetics, Inc. carries a line of cosmetics for Black Women. Independent distributors are wanted. Commission plus bonuses Management opportunities available.

NICHOLS BRONZE SUPPLY, 389 Sebring Airport, Sebring, FL 33870. Bronze baby shoes at home and make $250 per day. A free brochure will show you how to start making money immediately by preserving baby shoes, sports items, and many other types of keepsakes, in bronze, gold, and chinakote pearl. This company claims to be the world’s largest supplier of elegant cultured marble mountings.

DICRENS MATSON U.S.A., 21023 Gratiot Ave., East Detroit, MI 48021. This company is looking for people to assemble clowns from their home. The work is fun and easy. Write for free details.

ARBITRON RATINGS, INC., 3312 Marshall Ave., Laurel, MD 20707. This company hires telephone interviewers for market research surveys. Positions require communication skills and private phone lines.

NOWCO INTERNATIONAL, INC., 1 George Ave., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18705. Work at home and cash in on the gift basket boom! This company sells gift basket packaging to the champagne and cavier trade throughout the country. Writ for more details.

CENTRAL-SHIPPER, INC., 46 Star Lake Ave., Bloomington, NJ 07404. Involves manual assembly of color cards, swatching, inserting and mailing. Home workers receive piece rates for putting swatch cards together.

THE LYNETTE CO., 4251 Mentor Park, Mentor, OH 44060. This company will show you how to start making money with plastercraft, manufacturing sculptured art at home. They will show you how to make a wide variety of wall palques and other fast-selling items. Write for details.each with a different message,

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RALEIGH, N.C. – Pending final approval from the State Construction Office, Dr. Stephen Scott, president of Wake Technical Community College, announced that Wake Tech’s new Public Safety Training Center is set for its planned January 2008 opening. The Center, at 321 Chapanoke Road in Raleigh, will train law enforcement officers, firefighters, corrections officers, and emergency medical service providers. It will be the first centralized center for training of this kind in Wake County.

“Safety is paramount,” said President Scott, “a concern for every individual, every family, and the whole community. Our Public Safety Training Center will train and prepare the safety professionals we depend on and will continue to need as our county grows.”

Wake Tech currently provides in-service training at 16 locations for area law enforcement agencies, including local police departments, the Wake County Sheriff’s Office, the State Bureau of Investigation, and the N.C. Department of Corrections. Enrollment in these classes has more than doubled in just the past five years – from 7,100 to 14,400. Wake Tech also provides on-site training for firefighters at fire departments throughout Wake County.

The Public Safety Training Center will initially occupy just 18,520 square feet of the facility’s total 100,666 square feet of space. Wake Tech purchased the building and completed Phase I renovations – offices, classrooms, and a weight training facility – with approximately $5 million in funds from the 2004 county bond referendum.

Design on Phase II renovations will begin next year, with completion planned for 2010. Wake Tech plans to make the Center a model regional training facility with the addition of a mock courtroom and jail, a booking center, and additional classrooms for forensics and other instruction. Emergency Medical Training will be added as well. Nearly $14 million in bond funds, approved in October of this year, will support these renovations.

“Our officers and instructors have waited a long time for a facility like this,” said Anthony Caison, Wake Tech’s Dean of Public Safety Training. “It will offer the latest technologies and high quality training they need – all under one roof.”

The Public Safety Training Center will begin with courses offerings such as Crime Scene Investigation, DWI Detection, and Field Training Officer instruction.

Read More:CarolinaNewsWire

The first-ever statewide study of nonprofit employment shows that nonprofit organizations provide 212,814 jobs in North Carolina. This is more jobs than in the state’s construction industry and 54 percent more than in the state’s entire banking, finance, insurance, and real estate industry. Nonprofits employ more than one in every 18 workers in North Carolina, or about 6 percent of all jobs, says the study released today by the North Carolina Center for Nonprofits. National experts at Johns Hopkins University conducted the study on contract with the Center. Additional research found that the nonprofit sector puts $25.8 billion into the state’s economy each year.

“Economic developers tout our quality of life, and nonprofits play a vital role in creating this quality of life,” says Jane Kendall, president of the N.C. Center for Nonprofits. “Nonprofit colleges, PTAs, and day care centers educate and take care of our children. Nonprofit museums, theatres, and music festivals teach about our cultural heritage. Nonprofits also promote recycling, conserve green space, and monitor water quality. And, YMCAs, YWCAs, Boys and Girls Clubs, and Boy and Girl Scouts help young people grow. Nonprofits are a part of our economy that works for the common good.”

“We depend on nonprofits for many of the drawing cards that make North Carolina attractive to business,” says Jim Fain, Secretary of the N.C. Department of Commerce. “Many in industry and government were not aware of nonprofits’ economic force, but this report will change that. The nonprofit sector is a key part of a vibrant economy for us now and in the future.”

The Surprise: More Jobs Than Several Large Industries
Nonprofits provide 212,814 jobs in North Carolina, which is about the same number as in the state’s construction industry (210,900 jobs) and one and a half times the state’s banking, finance, insurance, and real estate industry (137,800) combined. Nonprofits provide almost three times more jobs than the transportation (77,000) and information (75,100) industries, and 15 times more than the utilities industry (14,200) in North Carolina.

Nonprofit Sector Employment Growing Faster Than Business Sector
Between 1995 and 2003, nonprofit employment in North Carolina grew by 35.4 percent and added 55,700 jobs to the state’s work force. This is an average growth rate of 4.4 percent per year, which was six times the growth rate achieved by the business sector during this period. The nonprofit sector accounted for 26 percent of the state’s job growth in these eight years.

Total Economic Impact of Nonprofits
The total economic impact of the nonprofit sector in North Carolina has grown even faster than the jobs it has created. Nonprofits put $25.8 billion into the economy in 2005, an increase of 117 percent in one decade, up from $11.9 billion spent in 1995.

“The benefits of nonprofits are not limited to the people that they serve,” says Richard “Stick” Williams, vice president of enterprise field services at Duke Energy in Charlotte. “These dollars support local economies and create jobs.”

Nonprofit employees earned nearly $6.6 billion in wages in 2003, which accounted for 5.5 percent of the payroll of all North Carolina workers.

“The people who work in the nonprofit sector also contribute to the state’s economy,” says Kendall. “Nonprofit employees pay hundreds of millions of dollars in state income taxes. They buy clothes, food, and computers and thus pay state and local sales taxes on their purchases. They also buy homes and cars and pay property taxes to local governments.”

Just as sports events generate economic ripples, nonprofit activities such as arts performances, museum tours, and conferences also benefit the economy by boosting local businesses and sales taxes revenue through visitors’ expenditures at local hotels, restaurants, and stores.

Where Nonprofit Employees Work
North Carolina’s distribution of jobs in charitable nonprofits is similar to the national pattern. The majority (54 percent) are in health services, from Duke Health System, one of the state’s largest nonprofits, to local health clinics. Eighteen percent are in educational services, including private elementary and secondary schools and colleges, such as the Asheville School, Davidson College, and Shaw University. Ten percent of nonprofit jobs are in social assistance – from elderly services to emergency relief and child care. Nine percent are in membership, civic, and advocacy organizations, such as United Ways, foundations, and those addressing social issues such as child abuse. Three percent provide professional, scientific, and technical services, such as research organizations and legal services. Two percent of nonprofit jobs are in arts and recreation, such as performing arts groups, museums, and local recreation centers.

From 1995 to 2003, nonprofit job growth was strongest in membership, civic, and advocacy organizations (149 percent) and in private schools and colleges (101 percent). Other fields with above-average job growth were professional, scientific, and technical services (75 percent); social assistance (57 percent); and arts and recreation (39 percent). Hospital employment grew by 24 percent during this period. By contrast, nonprofit clinics and home health services lost 14 percent of jobs, a possible reflection of the growth of for-profit businesses in this arena.

Average Nonprofit Wages Are Lower Than in Business and Government
At $593, average weekly wages of nonprofit workers were 4 percent below those of workers in the business sector and local government, and 11 percent below those in state government. However, these averages obscure significant variations for nonprofit workers in different fields. Average wages range from a low of $391 per week in the social assistance field to a high of $710 in the hospital field.

What Nonprofits Do in North Carolina
Nonprofits fulfill several roles in North Carolina. (1) They deliver health and social services through organizations such as nonprofit hospitals, hospices, day care centers, and the Salvation Army. (2) They create volunteer opportunities, such as delivering Meals on Wheels or building a house with Habitat for Humanity. (3) They educate the public on issues such as smoking, domestic violence, and air pollution. (4) They develop programs and propose policies to solve public problems, such as the Child Care Services Association’s innovations in affordable day care and the Center for Community Self-Help’s leadership in curbing predatory lending. (5) They supply a voice for the voiceless, such as children, the frail elderly, and people with AIDS. (6) Finally, they offer avenues for religious worship through churches, synagogues, and mosques.

The report’s release coincides with the start of the holiday season when many people volunteer and make charitable contributions to nonprofits that deliver services to people in need. “But the impact of the nonprofit sector on the quality of life and the economy is felt in North Carolina 365 days a year,” says Kendall. “This study points to the large stake that North Carolina has in the health of its nonprofit sector.”

Read More:CarolinaNewsWire

Seasonal Beers Cheer up the Holidays

RALEIGH, N.C. – Discriminating North Carolina beer lovers toast the season with festive ales that range from dark, rich brews to more hoppy varieties. Colder months bring on ‘winter warmers’ that pair nicely with hearty dishes and often have warming strength with a touch of holiday spice.

“More North Carolinians are looking for craft brews, and the craft beer market is growing. Over the holidays, that means seasonal beer,” said Dean Plunkett, Executive Director of the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association. “These brews are a great addition to the foods we all love around the holidays. Prepare meals with unique seasonal beers in mind as the perfect pairing.”

N.C. beer distributors play a key role in bringing seasonal beers to store shelves, and balance taste between local and national brands, supporting the local economy in the process. Beer sales help support roughly 17,791 jobs at local retailers in the state, which include supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants, bars, stadiums, and other outlets.

Top seasonal picks from N.C. distributors:

Highland Cold Mountain Winter Ale – from Asheville, the Highland Cold Mountain is an ever-changing spiced winter seasonal. A tasty brew that complements all your holiday festivities, it’s lightly hopped, and rounded out with spices that vary from year to year. Try Highland paired with the subtle, yet robust, flavor of lamb.

Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale – Wonderfully robust and rich, Celebration Ale is dry-hopped for a lively, intense aroma. Brewed especially for the holidays, it is perfect for a party or for a quiet evening at home. Celebration is the best with prime rib, lamb, or wild fowl, making a wonderful holiday meal. Pastas also work well — try goat cheese ravioli, a rich fettuccine, or gnocchi with Gorgonzola cheese sauce.

Carolina Winter Stout – Brewed in Holly Springs, this stout is brewed in the style of a dry Irish stout, but is quite different from the draft Guinness widely available in the Triangle. It’s much more full bodied and much higher in alcohol (5.9 % by volume). It’s blackish brown in color and features an initial caramel flavor with a dry, roasted finish. Carolina Winter makes a great addition to a ribs dinner, with garlic mashed potatoes and a vegetable side.

Beer brewing has a long history in North Carolina, dating as far back as the 17th century. And the business of beer has since grown to support local economies where today, North Carolina’s 70 beer distributors employ approximately 2,773 people across the state. Distributors across the state are paying over $150 million in wages to their local employees, and collecting over $100 million in state taxes

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Cary, NC — Employees at Quintiles now have access to both on-site and virtual concierge benefits provided by Expedite Group. Quintiles obtained the Expedite Group service as a way to better balance their 5,500 nationwide employees’ work responsibilities with their life responsibilities.

“We selected Expedite Group because of their knowledge and experience with corporate concierge services in the US – they have the ability to effectively serve all our national offices, as well as our home-based employees,” says Robbyne Jones, Vice President Global HR Program Office. She continues, “We weren’t sure what to expect when we rolled this program out, but employee response has been very positive and utilization of Expedite Group’s services has been exceptional.”

In the first 90 days, one in six employees has used the service ranging from receiving Disney vacation information, requesting housekeeper information, or having four cans of chicken and stars soup picked up and delivered to their office. Field based employees have particularly enjoyed taking advantage of this benefit since they do not always have access to benefits offered on-campus. In fact, 40% of the employees that have used the service are field employees. Steve Brechbiel, Director, Global HR Communications, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Expedite Group. The program was very easy to implement, the cost is extremely affordable, and all employees have a chance to share in the benefits of the service.”

About Expedite Group
Expedite Group, headquartered in Cary, North Carolina, is a national corporate concierge company that provides in-house, on-site, virtual concierge benefits designed for companies who recognize their employees are struggling due to the growing number of demands, both personal and professional. For more information, visit http://www.expeditegroup.com.

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Raleigh, N.C. – WRBZ, Sports Radio 850 the Buzz announced the debut of the 2008 Buzz Babe Swimsuit Calendar. The Buzz Babe calendar will be officially released on Thursday, December 13th from 6pm-8pm at the Ray Price Harley Davidson store on South Saunders St. in Raleigh.

Buzz Babe 6 and 2008 calendar cover-model, Casey, along with Buzz Babes Erika and Erin, who also make appearances in this year’s Swimsuit Calendar, will be on hand to autograph calendars and meet fans.

The 12-month calendar features photos of the past four Buzz Babes: Kristen, Erin, Casey and Erika. The 2008 Buzz Babe calendar showcases the outstanding photography of Eric Kaufman of www.thedivide.com.

Calendars will be distributed for free throughout the Triangle at Walker Auto Stores, as well as Atlantic Spas and Billiards, and various 850 The Buzz appearances throughout the next several months. The 2008 calendar was shot at various beaches along the coast of North Carolina.

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Raleigh NC. The Healing Place of Wake County announced today that Waste Industries, a regional, non-hazardous solid waste services company, has provided a generous donation to be used for operating the non-profit’s rehabilitation facility for homeless people with alcohol and drug dependency.

“We have an amazing loyal set of donors,” said Dennis Parnell, executive director, and we are so grateful, for the continuing support of Waste Industries towards our treatment of homelessness and addiction. It is a real privilege to work with companies like Waste Industries to give back to the community.”

The Healing Place provides a unique peer to peer recovery program that helps homeless substance abusers become responsible, productive, and self-supporting citizens.

About The Healing Place
The Healing Place of Wake County is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) recovery and rehabilitation facility for homeless people with alcohol and drug dependency. The Men’s Center opened its doors in January 2001, and the Women’s Center began operation in January 2006. The Healing Place of Wake County is built on the principles of the highly successful Healing Place in Louisville KY, which received the 1998 US Department of Health Resources and Service Administration “Models That Work Award” in recognition of the success of the program. www.hpowc.org

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Heather Derr Named Builder Representative For Balmoral At MacGregor

CARY, N.C. – Debbie Houston, president of Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston Builder Services (www.hpwnewhomes.com), has announced that Heather Derr has been named builder representative for Balmoral at MacGregor. Derr has over 20 years of experience in advertising production and sales. Most recently, she served as production project manager for Derr Design Group, Inc., a commercial advertising and photography firm with locations in Chapel Hill, N.C., and Chicago. In addition, Derr was general manager of DDG, Inc., which operates luxury wellness centers and day spas in Cary and Raleigh, and production manager for Aparacor, Inc. in Evanston, Ill. She currently resides in both Chapel Hill and New York City. Balmoral at MacGregor is a luxury townhome community in Cary, N.C., centrally located near Research Triangle Park.

“We are pleased to announce that Heather has been named the builder representative for Balmoral at MacGregor,” said Houston. “I am confident that Heather’s experience in advertising sales and production will make her a huge asset to the Builder Services team.“

About Balmoral at MacGregor:
Conveniently located in the heart of Cary, N.C., the community of Balmoral at MacGregor offers limited edition, maintenance-free manor townhomes. With elegant floor plans and grand scale rooms situated in a private enclave overlooking the 13th green on the prestigious MacGregor Downs Country Club. Homes at Balmoral are elegant and distinctive offering a look of Scottish tradition, as well as authentic cottage-estate architecture. Floor plans are spacious, ranging between 2,715 and 5,100 square feet, and residents can choose many luxury amenities, including golf course or lake views, landscaped courtyards, wood-burning fire places, vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, molded cabinets, granite countertops and custom walk-in closets. The houses in Balmoral at MacGregor are priced from $795,000 to $1.5 million. For more information on Balmoral at MacGregor, visit www.balmoralofcary.com.

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A Sweet Reminder Announces Updated Website

Raleigh , N.C. – Cookie delivery service A Sweet Reminder recently launched an updated version of the company’s home on the internet, www.ASweetReminder.com. The site was updated to simplify the navigation and enhance the shopping experience. New products have been added to the website as well as a corporate gifting page.

“Our updated site is a major upgrade from the previous one,” said Cindy Sheats, who founded the company in her home five years ago. “We wanted to make our customer’s online shopping experience as easy as possible,” she added

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