In a ground breaking partnership between The United Way Willamette Valley Foundation and East County One Stop (a 501c3 organization based in Portland Oregon) the first Business Trade Association to support business owners with a disability opened August 2006. The program is on a three-year track to expand to a national scope as part of a move to provide a voice for entrepreneurs with disabilities through the creation of a Business Chamber of Commerce.

Deann with Killer Karoke is our DBA member of the month and the winner of our DBA Small Business Award for 2007

Deann struggled for years to found herself often facing discrimination in employment situations.

 

In 2006, she met with the DBA and started her business. The business has exceeded its orginal goals by 300% and have increased ongoing programs with various restaurants.

 

Congradulations Deann for being a role model for others to pursue their dreams in spite of the challenges faced.

 Connie Foster is DBA Counselor of the Year and the winner of the DBA Counselor of the Year for 2007

 

Connie Foster a vocational counselor with Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation has triumphed to support, advocate, and create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to start their business

 

As a forerunner for clients, Connie is a role model for innovative, forwarding thinking that supports individuals into programs that 'fit' with their health, their lifestyle, their skills set, and their abilities.

 

Connie thank you for moving forward and being an inspiration for others to follow