This is Sam Claassen. A former McGrath employee and customer, Sam may be the nicest guy. Ever. I had the chance to speak with him about a new venture he’s embarking on this year, and he’s so upbeat and positive that even through the phone it’s contagious.
Sam is legally blind, and two years ago at a state convention he learned of an amazing opportunity. A representative from the Business Enterprise Program told him about his experience and how amazing it’s been. BEP is a program that gives blind entrepreneurs the opportunity to own their own business managing a variety of food service operations, including coffee bars, restaurants, vending locations, and catering at county, state, and federal buildings. The program has been around since the 1930’s and has had great success across the country. Sam has always had an entrepreneurial mind, and decided it sounded right up his alley.
During a 6-8 month training program, BEP participants like Sam train under experienced vendors who are also in the program. They learn all aspects of the food service business, like ordering merchandise and managing employees. After completing their training, they’re ready to run their own site.
After Sam bid on the route he wanted, he got it and had to build his business in just three short weeks.
“Starting a business in three weeks is a little overwhelming, My dad owned his own business and he taught me that it’s a fun busy and a fun stress when you’re doing things for your business.”
Sam started running rest area vending sites around Ames, Iowa and needed a vehicle to transport products and service his facilities. As a former employee, he thought of the McGrath Family of Dealerships right away.
After finding the perfect vehicle for his business and hiring his first employee, Sam says he’s really starting to settle into his new venture.
So many people think blind people have it so rough and can only do so much. Other people know that blind people can reach for the moon. We’re all trying to achieve whether we’re blind or sighted, and we all deserve a chance. The BEP program is a chance that I had, and a privilege I had of finding out about and going after. And I think that’s great.”
Sam Claassen
After finding the perfect vehicle for his business and hiring his first employee, Sam says he’s really starting to settle into his new venture. We are sending out a huge congratulations and best wishes with growing his business. To learn more about the Business Enterprise Program, please visit here.