Entrepreneurship has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My very first business idea wasn’t fancy or strategic—it was scrappy, creative, and full of heart. In middle school, I had the bright idea to sell my dad’s old magazines to my classmates. I’ll never forget the yellow paper bag I carried around every day, stuffed with “inventory” until there wasn’t a single magazine left in our house.
Looking back, that little hustle was my first taste of possibility.
High School: The Spark Gets Brighter
Fast forward to high school. I found myself sitting in Mr. Wortman’s business class, completely lit up by the world of entrepreneurship. I joined Virtual Enterprise—a two-period class that felt like it was designed just for me. It became one of the most formative academic experiences of my life.
Through that class, I was introduced to Youth Venture, a program that gave me my very first capital investment to bring a small business idea to life. That moment—someone believing in my potential enough to invest in it—changed everything.
My 20s: Discovering Social Entrepreneurship
In my early 20s, I joined Public Allies, an AmeriCorps program centered on public service and leadership. That’s where I first encountered social entrepreneurship, a concept that blends business with community impact. It taught me that entrepreneurship isn’t just about making money—it’s about solving problems, uplifting people, and using your gifts to make the world a little better.
Those lessons became part of my DNA.
Candy Connections: More Than a Sweet Treat
Years later, when Candy Connections was born, it wasn’t just about cotton candy, sweets, or even greeting cards. It was about joy, connection, creativity, and possibility. It was about inspiring the next generation the way others once inspired me.
That’s why we launched the Future Founders Academy, a teen entrepreneurship program that gives young people real-world business experience, confidence, and the transferable skills they’ll use for the rest of their lives. Every time I watch a teen discover their own spark, I’m reminded of that girl with the yellow paper bag and a big imagination.
Giving Tuesday: A Full-Circle Moment
This Giving Tuesday, we’re thrilled to share something special:
💛 5% of every Candy Graham™ purchase supports the Future Founders Academy.
That means when you buy a Candy Graham™—to encourage a friend, celebrate a bold dreamer, or treat someone you love—you’re also helping shape the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs.
You’re investing in teens who are just beginning their journey…
You’re planting seeds of possibility…
And you’re helping create opportunities like the ones that shaped my own path.
From Past to Present: Why This Matters
For me, this is truly a full-circle moment.
From the middle school entrepreneur with the yellow paper bag…
To the high schooler with her first investment…
To the young adult discovering the power of social impact…
To the woman guiding teens through their first business ideas today…
It all connects.
Thank You for Being Part of the Story
Thank you for supporting Candy Connections, for believing in our mission, and for helping us continue this work. Your purchases, your encouragement, and your partnership all make a real difference.
This Giving Tuesday, your support doesn’t just create joy—it creates opportunity.
And for that, I’m truly grateful.