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Publisher's note: Finding solutions

By Marty Cayton, posted May 30, 2024 on BizFayetteville.com

In May, the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal celebrated small business month and Mother’s Day! In an effort to further recognize both of these important events, we have assembled a few stories highlighting working mothers and “mom-owned” small businesses. 

Small businesses represent almost half of the workforce in the entire US and 43 percent of the GDP. Many of these businesses are owned and operated by families who strive to provide for their children and their employees’ needs. The success of these businesses is a very significant part of the social fabric of our country. Without small businesses, many would be unemployed and unable to make ends meet. 

Speaking of making ends meet, it is estimated by Forbes that more than 65 percent of the workforce today is one paycheck away from becoming homeless. And from there, it only gets worse. Thirty-eight percent of the homeless population become alcoholics and 26 percent become addicted to drugs. Another 63 percent become involved in criminal activity. 

At the next Power Breakfast, we will hear from some organizations on the front lines of this battle, trying to stem the tide. Aside from the altruistic aspects of businesses getting involved in this fight, there are some very important and even practical reasons why this community should become more active. And we will hear about some of these at the Power Breakfast. Business owners, entrepreneurs and leaders can make a difference! However, it will take an injection of empathy and compassion, coupled with cooperation and common sense. We cannot leave these problems alone in hopes that the government or religious institutions will try to solve them. 

I hope you will plan on joining us on Tuesday, June 18 at 7:30 a.m. at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden. 

God bless you and yours! 

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