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Imagine walking into your favorite local ice cream shop or the bustling café down the street. The aroma of fresh coffee and baked goods fills the air, and you’re greeted by friendly faces—the very heartbeat of your community. This is the essence of Delaware, where small businesses are not just shops, but cherished parts of our lives. They create jobs, foster connections, and cultivate a sense of belonging. Yet, behind this vibrant façade, many small business employees face challenges when it comes to saving for retirement. That’s where Delaware EARNS steps in, a program designed to empower these hardworking individuals.
Delaware EARNS: A game changer for small business employees
Launched with a vision to change the retirement landscape for small business employees, Delaware EARNS has quickly become a beacon of hope. Over the past two years, I’ve crisscrossed our beautiful state, talking to small business owners, their employees, and legislators—gathering insights and creating a tailored solution. This initiative isn’t just about retirement; it’s about building a future where everyone can thrive. Since its inception, more than $3 million has been saved collectively by participants, a significant milestone that speaks volumes about the program’s impact.
Community engagement at its core
When I think about the folks I’ve met during this journey—the bakers, baristas, and truck drivers—I’m reminded of the unique stories that each of them carries. Every interaction is a reminder of the dedication that goes into running a small business, often with long hours and little recognition. Our upcoming events aim to shine a light on these stories. For instance, on May 12, I’ll be alongside Rep. Larry Lambert and other key figures, celebrating the contributions of LaVante Dorsey, a local business owner and passionate advocate for EARNS. Events like these not only highlight individual achievements but also foster a sense of community and collective progress.
Why saving for retirement matters
Sure, the topic of saving for retirement might not seem thrilling—like watching paint dry, right? But consider this: it’s the foundation for a secure future. I remember when I first started saving, and it felt daunting, to say the least. Yet, every small contribution added up over time, leading to a sense of security and freedom. As many know, the earlier you start, the better off you’ll be. EARNS is designed to simplify this process, making retirement savings accessible and achievable for everyone—especially those who might think it’s out of reach.
Join the conversation
If you’re a small business employee or owner, I encourage you to participate in our upcoming events. On May 15, we’ll host a Savers’ Webinar in partnership with Vestwell, where we’ll dive deep into how EARNS works and how it can benefit you. Not only do these events provide valuable information, but they also create a platform for discussion and networking. Let’s face it: we’re all in this together, and supporting each other is key to overcoming challenges.
Looking ahead
As we look to the future, I firmly believe that initiatives like Delaware EARNS can transform our communities. By empowering small business employees to save for retirement, we’re not just helping individuals; we’re strengthening our entire state. Personally, I think it’s exciting to witness this evolution firsthand. The stories of success and resilience inspire me every day, reminding us that even small steps can lead to monumental change.
Final thoughts
So, I invite you to join us—whether it’s at an event or simply by spreading the word about Delaware EARNS. Together, let’s pave the way for a future where every Delawarean can look forward to retirement with confidence and hope. After all, as they say, “a rising tide lifts all boats,” and I believe that with our collective efforts, we can create a thriving environment for everyone.