News

Agency extends deadline for '5 Promises' contest

By Bill Moss, Published: February 1, 2014

In response to requests for more time, the Children & Family Resource Center has extended the deadline for a business plan competition from to Feb. 10.

The local non-profit focused on the health and well-being of children announced the business plan competition on Jan. 1 with a deadline of Jan. 31. Although at least four business plan ideas were submitted by the deadline, organizers were told that at least four others were in process. Those applicants requested an extension.
"We have several nonprofits and youth led groups in the community who have expressed an interest and have great ideas, but weren't as familiar with the business plan piece of a competition like this one," Elisha Freeman, executive director of Children & Family Resource Center, said in a news release. "We wanted to make sure that their big ideas were heard and that we gave them time and assistance in putting the plans together."
The Center will host a Q&A with applicants on Tuesday, Feb. 4, from from noon to 1 p.m. at 851 Case St. just off Upward Road.
The Center is looking for a business idea that can positively impact the lives of kids living in Henderson County. Nonprofits, entrepreneurs and business owners are encouraged to submit a compelling business concept, along with a three minute or less YouTube video pitch, to the Promise Competition. A review board of local business owners, and financial advisors will carefully comb through the big ideas, narrowing them down to five.

The five finalists will receive notification by Feb. 17, giving them two weeks to prepare for a final live pitch on March 1 at Speak Out 2014. A live vote on March 1 based text voting and review board comments will determine the Promise Competition winner.
Based on highly regarded research from the National Academy of Science's report on Community Programs to Promote Youth Development among others, the Promise Competition is based on delivery of at least four of five important promises to children. The promises are: Be a Caring Adult, Provide Safe Places, Provide A Healthy Start, Deliver an Effective Education, and Provide Opportunities to Serve. Research shows that children who receive four of the five promises are significantly more likely to achieve academic success, avoid violence and become involved in their communities.
For more information, visit 5PromisesHC.org or call 698-0674. Questions can also be sent via email to PromiseBiz@5PromisesHC.org.