Now that Black Friday is behind us, it’s Small Business Saturday time. Small Business Saturday was introduced by Amex when the Great Recession hit in 2010, and now in the wake of the pandemic, small businesses need it more than ever.
Linda Viertel, store manager at Ten Thousand Villages in Albany, says that by supporting local businesses, you’re supporting the community.
“We’re a small entity and a nonprofit. So all of our items are handmade by artists all over the world…but it does impact the local community,” she said.
The store also makes sure to help other local community organizations.
“We partnered with Love146, [and], most recently, we partnered with Safe Inc. Schenectady is about stopping human trafficking and providing soap,” she said. “Our community provides soap to help teens get out of human trafficking. “
Susan Hoffman owns Wits End in Clifton Park. She has been in business since 1975 and credits listening to and serving the community as the secret to her success.
“We listen, we care, [and] We try to create a partnership with our clients,” she said. “It’s friendship, it’s what drives us forward. It keeps the small business engine running. “
But no matter where you go for decorations, clothing, gifts for the kids, or even chocolates…today is the day to show some love to your favorite local store or restaurant, no matter where you are. Remember, when you support a small business, you are also supporting the local families serving your community.
In fact, organizers estimate that 67 cents of every dollar spent at small businesses today goes to local communities. They also add that small businesses donate 250 percent more than large businesses to local nonprofits and community centers.
“People spend their money in their communities. The money stays in the community and helps the community grow. It keeps it in the area,” Hoffman said.
Plus, by supporting a small business, you’re supporting all employees and their families. Susan Hoffman said she is very proud of what she and her staff do. But she’s also always grateful for those who continue to shop in and around the community.
“I want to say to all of my customers, thank you, thank you so much for being on our journey,” she said. “We couldn’t have done it without you.”