The ten-week program for military veterans and their spouses seeking entrepreneurship opportunities, employment and continuing education concluded today with a celebration Page | 2 graduation hosted by Rosen Hotels & Resorts. The no-cost, 10-week program started Tuesday, February 16th at the chamber, which is located at the National Entrepreneur Center in Orlando. To date, more than 250 veterans have participated in the program, with a career placement success rate of 40 percent.
Harris Rosen, President and COO, Rosen Hotels & Resorts, inspired the graduates who were seeking the entrepreneurial path and explained how he started with one hotel that he had purchased for the sum of $20, 000 which was all the money he had and now owns 7 hotels that are debt free. He also spoke on leadership and that to be a leader one must learn to follow, work the hardest they have ever had but also take time to close their eyes and dream. Mr. Rosen, a fellow veteran, served in the United States Army for three years in Germany and South Korea.
Mark Waltrip, COO, Westgate Resorts also inspired the Veterans by advising them to treat everyone they meet for the first time as if they are important because things come around full circle. Mr. Waltrip also advised that there is no substitute for hard work and to always hold yourself accountable, always do the right thing, rise above the challenges and hold yourself to a higher standard. Mr. Waltrip served 20 years in the Air Force and Air Force Reserves and led a team of consultants responsible for reducing Air Force procurement and acquisition costs by hundreds of millions of dollars. He also is an active supporter of Operation Rolling Thunder, which works to bring full accountability for the prisoners of war and those missing in action for all wars.
In addition, Keith Landry, reporter for Fox 35 news, spoke to the veterans about being successful in the business community. Marcia Hope Goodwin, Chief Service Officer & Director Office of Community Affairs & Human Relations for the Office of the Mayor Buddy Dyer issued a proclamation letter for the initiative and words of support for the program. Cindy Brown, Community Relations Manager for Congressman Daniel Webster issued letters of recommendation for all the veterans who participated in the VBI spring program.
The event ended with community and civic leaders giving praises to the Veterans Business Initiative and the work that the Central Florida disability Chamber of Commerce does for all our military veterans in transitioning back into the workplace. "Our veterans accepted the responsibility to defend America and uphold our values when duty called, now it is our responsibility to make sure they have an opportunity to meet with decision makers in the job market who do the hiring" stated Rogue Gallart, President of the CFDC.
For More Information About The Veteran Business Initiative
If you would like more information about this program, please contact Rogue Gallart at 407-420-4899 or email [email protected]. The Fall Veterans Business Initiative starts Tuesday, September 6, 2016. Photos from the event can be viewed by clicking here.