Wil Holbrook’s Post

One day, my story might be the one that saves a kid in Boston, just like Buildon saved me. Everything I've been through—growing up here, serving in the military, and pursuing a path in criminal justice—could show them there's a way out, no matter how tough things get. Buildon gave me the strength to rise above; maybe my journey will help someone else find their way.

One of my favorite small-business owners retired this week, getting a key to the city, after almost 40 years running her company. There isn't a chance she's on LinkedIN. But, engagement stats be damned, I needed to take a moment to congratulate Annie Jenkins, and thank her. For 40 years, Annie has slung eggs, hash, sandwiches, and so much more from behind the counter of her eponymous "greasy spoon" (she'll kill me for calling it that). She's fed congressmen, and priests, and athletes...future Fortune 500 execs, actors, world-changing do-gooders...and a 19-year-old kid who showed up with $2 in his pocket, tears in his eyes, and a hungry stomach, in need of some comfort food, when his dad was in the hospital. Annie took care of me that day, and so many days after. I spent hundreds of Saturdays (and some Tuesdays-Fridays) in my 20s at her counter, listening to city gossip, being pressed into work when she was short-staffed (earning the nickname "Ketchup" for my ability to fill bottles), and running up a tab between paychecks. Whether as a journalist, during my time in politics, or simply when I was back in Worcester, Annie's Clark Brunch has always been my must stop. I learned as much from Annie about business and how the world works as from any class or trained executive. She taught me how important personality is to a business - how you are nothing without a clear sense of identity; she schooled me in how "big picture" politics doesn't matter as much as how you take care of your neighbors; she demonstrated how being firm with your customers is the right thing to do (although the egg she cracked in my hands was a bit much)...most importantly, she showed me how treating your customers well will always come back to you tenfold, when you need it most. Annie's been through more challenges than she would ever let you know, and still greets every regular with a smile and a hug. Annie: I'm one of thousands of Clark alumni and Worcester locals you fed, overfed, and taught. Thank you so much for everything. Enjoy those cold beers. You deserve it. https://lnkd.in/emfubf5E

Calling U.S. #nonprofits addressing #HealthEquity: Today, the AbbVie Foundation and MATTER launched the AbbVie Foundation Health Equity Accelerator, a program seeking innovative, community-led solutions to address health disparities. Apply by October 27 for the chance to receive up to $50k and other benefits: https://bit.ly/47cmpRM