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Highlands Today

SCORE Seeking Volunteers

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By BILL ROGERS

Highlands Today

Published: February 22, 2009

SEBRING - Jerry Kaiser is the only SCORE representative in Highlands County, and he is hoping that will change.

Formerly known as The Service Corps of Retired Executives, the Central Florida chapter of the nonprofit association established to assist and mentor those in business is looking for volunteers in Highlands.

The criteria for volunteers include having business or management experience and have an e-mail address, according to Kaiser. Volunteers do not have to be retired or own a business.

Kaiser was in the grocery business for more than 45 years. Three of his four children operate five Kaiser supermarkets in northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio.

When he retired in 1997, Kaiser wondered what he was going to do with his time.

He got involved in SCORE through his father, who was Kroger manager. There were three other counselors besides him in Highlands when he started.

"I enjoy it; I learn a lot," Kaiser said. "I get a lot of self-satisfaction."

Counselors will help people get started in business by working with them to create a basic business plan and offer suggestions. They will also help make contacts.

There is no charge for the service and it is confidential.

Volunteers do receive reimbursement for mileage, according to Kaiser. They are paid by the Small Business Administration, which is a resource partner with SCORE.

Kaiser can be reached at 382-2115. Business owners who are interested in talking to a counselor may also call Kaiser as well.

According to its Web site, SCORE, which was formed in 1964, has more than 11,200 volunteer counselors. It has assistedmore than 8 million Americans with online and face-to-face small business counseling.

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