Friday, September 12, 2014

Finding inspiration in one man's dream

Lots and lots of people dream of owning their own business. It's not easy to take those first steps. Lots to consider- money, legal issues, insurance, inventory, taxes, employees, benefits, regulations- the list goes on and on. What holds most people back? For most people, for the vast majority, it's money. Somewhere along the line "crowdfunding" was created. You, and your dream, can become a reality through the generosity of friends, family, and complete strangers willing to kick a few bucks into your Kickstarter or IndieGoGo campaign. I think this is the greatest thing ever, and opens the business world to many people who might otherwise not even have tried.

Which brings me to a gentleman by the name of John-Michael McCullough. I was browsing online the other night when I received a message from him. He had been referred to me by a friend and wanted to share what he is working on and if I wouldn't mind, could I help him get the word out. 

Pic from Mac's Facebook page
Mac's Burger Shack. Sounds like a simple, classic place to pop in for a burger, right But what makes it special? What makes this concept different, especially for me, than all the other burger joint out there? Let me tell you, if you have known me for any length of time you KNOW I am very involved in veterans' issues. No matter what our individual politics are, we must support our veterans. Homelessness. Hunger. Abuse in the home. All vitally important issues that need to be handled. So how does this fit in with hamburgers and fries? Mr. McCullough's plan is to staff the restaurant entirely with veterans, homeless men, women and teens and victims of domestic abuse- in all phases. As a veteran himself, he understands the challenges faced when re-entering the civilian workforce. His dream is to create the opportunity for those who truly WANT to become self-reliant. From the ground up- designing the interior, designing the uniforms, create the menu and work front and back of the house. Why? Because they deserve it. They need a chance to regain their dignity, empower themselves and become a self-reliant American again. If they are willing to work, this is the opportunity to do so. Something about this really struck a chord with me, and I want to share it with you.  

First of all, let's visit Mac's IndieGoGo campaign. Click HERE to see it. 

John-Michael has been busy!! He has an active Facebook page with lots of ideas and updates and building a steady following. He is buzzing around the Twitterverse as well sharing his idea and a mighty tasty-looking profile pic!! If you're on Google+ you can find him there too.

Often on Rockin' the Kitchen we visit local restaurants, or whatever city we happen to be in, and review the food, the locale, the atmosphere. We can't do that with Mac's yet. It is my solemn hope and prayer that his dream will come true, with the help of all of us! In watching him realize his dream, he is also fulfilling the dream of many people who right now, tonight, tomorrow, and next month, feel like they have no more dreams left. Please help if you can- donate, share, help spread the word. Share the link. Like Mac's Burgers' Facebook page. Follow on Twitter and G+. The more people who see and learn about Mac's Burgers, the sooner this dream comes true. I'm actually kinda hungry......for a Mac's Burger!!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 55: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

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