DECA officer and senior Michael Jones is beginning to figure out how he’s going to turn his dream of owning a philanthropic sandwich truck in Omaha into a reality.
Jones has begun putting together his sandwich truck’s branding, goals and purpose. A logo, a mascot and a plan to help people in need, with plenty of help from business teacher and DECA advisor Ashley Dworak, he’s already began to sell sandwiches for events.
“I recall having him in Entrepreneurship class last year and talking to him about this then in which we worked on building a formal written business plan for the concept,” Dworak said. “The biggest challenge is developing ideas on how he will stand out with his business concept and in the food industry; in general, that can be a little more challenging.”
Dworak has been assisting in his business venture, along with other entrepreneurs, but nobody has done more for Jone’s business than himself. His entire business is built on helping people in need in his very own community.
“I wanted to start Mikey’s subs in order to give back to the community and do something for people that need it,” Jones said. “Growing up, we were just getting by and not having much, especially growing up in a single parent household. The community was kind enough to provide their support; they would either donate food or other things that helped us get out of the situation we were in.”
With support from Dworak, he’s also received overwhelming support from other organizations and people.
“My family provides their ideas and support, and many small businesses like Square Donuts and Javi’s Tacos have been a huge help in providing me with the resources in order to grow my business and truly start it up,” Jones said. “I am very thankful for the community to step in and help me even when they didn’t even know me.”
Jone’s heartfelt story has struck a chord with the community. With a background like his, it’s no surprise that someone would feel compelled to assist him with his journey. Serial entrepreneur Rory Fulcher has been helping Jones build his business.
“We did the initial meeting at Javi’s Tacos and I spent an hour hearing his story, about what Mikey’s Subs is all about; what he’s trying to do,” Fulcher said. “He has to be good at telling his story, making people understand that they’re not just buying a sandwich. They’re supporting a young entrepreneur that’s from Millard, keeping that money locally in the Millard economy and supporting a future aspiring successful entrepreneur that’s going to pour back into his community.”
With Jones continuing to grow his business by sponsoring DECA events and help from serial entrepreneurs, Jones is on the path to success. His mission is to be able to make a difference in his community, and he’s already achieved that.
