SCORE needs volunteers for its business counseling program

SCORE needs volunteers for its business counseling program

The Outer Banks chapter of SCORE needs volunteers – both working and retired business owners and executives – to help in its programs that support local businesses.

The group will have a free informational luncheon on Thursday, March 28, to recruit volunteers and explain its counseling program.

SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to supporting small business nationwide.  It is composed of retired and working business owners and executives. The group is a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration and is sponsored locally by the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce.

SCORE provides free, confidential counseling and inexpensive workshops for the Outer Banks and Currituck communities.  Both working and retired business owners and executives donate their expertise and time as business counselors.  SCORE counselors provide three hours of counseling monthly and attend a monthly business meeting.  The program gives counselors the opportunity to meet others who share their commitment to service.

Every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Outer Banks SCORE Chapter 497 has counseling available by appointment or walk-in at the chamber office in Kill Devil Hills.  Counseling is also available in Buxton by appointment.  Call 252-441-8144 to make an appointment to see a counselor at Kill Devil Hills or Buxton.

SCORE business counselors help small business owners as well as potential business owners develop their business plans, review marketing strategies, examine financial and tax statements and explore social media opportunities.  Counselors can also assist in long-range plan options, which include selling or closing a business. 

Local SCORE chapter counselors have diverse business backgrounds and can address a wide range of challenges a new business owner will encounter.  These counselors can help the new business owner understand how to operate a successful business in North Carolina.

SCORE is able to provide these valuable free services because of business community support and the business volunteers who provide their time and expertise.  The group is very community oriented — success for its clients is success for the community.

If you are a working or retired business executive or owner who would like an opportunity to give back to your community, SCORE counseling may be what you are looking for. You will also meet others who share your spirit of generosity and giving.

The chapter’s March 28 informational luncheon will be at noon at the Western Sizzlin Restaurant in Kill Devil Hills.  Please call Ron Eckerle at 252-441-8144 for more information or to make your lunch reservation. There is no charge to attend.

You can obtain additional information by visiting the website of the local SCORE chapter at www.score497.org and on Facebook: SCORE Business Counselors of the OBX.