We all have people and places that were influential in our lives. Having come from a small town, there is something to be said about the support of a tight-knit community. Over the years, countless small business owners and entrepreneurs have lent a helping hand in my education, career, health, and life–and for that, I am forever grateful. It was through their encouragement that I was able to accomplish much of what I have, taking me from an underserved impoverished town to Stanford University and a career in corporate medical management and marketing. Now, in my free time, I pay it forward by offering back what I can to other small business owners who are in turn strengthening their communities.