Commercial Lending Spotlight – Kidz Korner Academy and Daycare
At Robins Financial Credit Union, we are proud to offer a suite of business products designed to help any business, no matter the size. Shyvonne Parker-Dennis, owner and director of Kidz Korner Academy and Daycare and proud member of Robins Financial Credit Union for the last 15 years, is just one of many who have entrusted us to provide financial support to help her business thrive. Get to know Shyvonne and how choosing Robins Financial as her trusted financial partner has impacted her business.
A Journey Rooted in Education
Parker-Dennis is no stranger to hard work and dedication. She has completed her Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education and is currently two semesters away from completing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health at Fort Valley State University. Parker-Dennis' journey into the world of early education started many years ago, stemming from her background in private daycare, military daycare, Head Start and Early Head Start. It’s no surprise that her love for teaching and nurturing young minds has only grown stronger over time.
“I have been in early education for over 15 years, and I wanted more,” shared Parker-Dennis. “I believe in the foundation – the foundation of children's development and what makes them the best that they can be.”
With this mindset, Parker-Dennis embarked on the journey of starting her own business, determined to create an educational facility that would not only meet the needs of children but also serve as a resource for families and the broader community.
The Beginning of Kidz Korner
Kidz Korner is more than just a daycare; it’s a valuable resource for families and a place where children’s growth and development are nurtured in a secure, wholesome, and engaging environment. The academy, currently serving children of the community ages birth to five, focuses on fostering the physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional development of children, tailored to their individual needs and learning styles.
“Kidz Korner Academy is a dedicated and experienced educational facility,” Parker-Dennis explains. “Our team is composed of qualified professionals who are responsive, sensitive, and attentive to the needs of children. In partnership with parents and families, we focus on the growth and development of their children, taking into account their overall environment.”
A Financial Partner that Believes in You
Starting a business is no easy task, so finding the right financial partner is crucial. For Parker-Dennis, that partner was Robins Financial Credit Union. However, the road to securing the necessary funding wasn’t without its challenges.
“I first went to the bank that was familiar with my business, and it took them two seconds to say they were not interested,” recalled Parker-Dennis. “So, I went with the bank that I believe knew me...and here we are. The support of Robins Financial has been beyond amazing. They have been supportive, informative and a great resource during this whole process.”
Parker-Dennis' journey with Robins Financial Credit Union began with a representative who encouraged her to learn the management side of the business before revisiting the loan application. After six months, she was then connected with Commercial Lender, Jan Douglass, who played a pivotal role in bringing Parker-Dennis' dream to life.
“Jan has been absolutely phenomenal in what she does, believed that we could do this, and stood by my side in getting it done and rolling,” shared Parker-Dennis. “She was a great resource and connection to the people and things I needed.”
With the support of Robins Financial, Parker-Dennis was able to secure the funding she needed to launch Kidz Korner Academy and Daycare and turn her vision into reality.
Making a Difference in the Community
For Parker-Dennis, the most rewarding aspect of starting her own business is the positive impact she’s able to make on children, families, and the community as a whole. With degrees in early childhood education and consumer science, she is passionate about using her skills and knowledge to strengthen the community through education.
“The most fulfilling part of launching my own business is the opportunity to positively impact the children and families in my community,” said Parker-Dennis. “Owning my business allows me to contribute to the community’s health and strength by offering the tools and resources that support overall growth through knowledge. At Kidz Korner, we hope to foster the joy of learning as well as become the ‘village’ that so many in our community need to help raise a child.”
Parker-Dennis' dedication to fostering the joy of learning among children and families is at the core of Kidz Korner Academy and Daycare’s mission. Her goal is to create a solid educational foundation that will benefit children long after they leave the academy.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
While starting a business can be a journey filled with challenges and obstacles, Parker-Dennis' experience has taught her the importance of self-belief, planning, and building a strong support system.
“We all know that it takes you to first believe in yourself, to have a plan (write the vision and make it plain), then collect your resources that will be beneficial in making your vision happen,” Parker-Dennis advises. “Although everything may not pan out how you anticipated, don’t give up. Just plan to make it better.”
Parker-Dennis' story is a testament to how the power of perseverance, community, and choosing the right financial partner can help you accomplish your goals. It’s an honor to play a part in the growth of businesses like Kidz Korner Academy and Daycare. Robins Financial Credit Union is proud to be Parker-Dennis' trusted financial partner.
Ready to start your business? Our team is here to help! Visit our website for more information about the various business products and services we offer that can help your business get off the ground. You can also contact our Commercial Lending team for more information by calling 478-923-3773 x.2240. We look forward to helping more members like Shyvonne on their business journey.
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