Stockmen's Drug, Helen Ianniello
Helen has achieved significant successes with the help of SCORE, including renewing the company's entire staffing and pharmacy systems, opening a second location, building and technology updates, increased revenue threefold, and brokered a successful 340B collaboration with the local hospital.
One of the most notable successes was winning first place in the nationwide virtual pitch competition SCORE held in honor of its 60th anniversary. This provided her with the funding needed to start a mobile vaccine program. Nicknamed MVP, it allows home bound, low income, and patients without transportaion to have access to vaccines they need.
Without SCORE's support, Helen believes she would still be struggling with many of the foundational aspects of running her business and MVP would still be in the planning stages for years down the road.
Stockmen's Drug is one of two pharmacies owned by Helen that focuses on patient-centered care and improving access to healthcare and educational resources. Helen's business offers a blend of pharmacy services and retail products that are essential for the community.
Her dedication to meeting the community's needs, combined with her background in nursing, sets Stockmen's Drug apart as a vital resource for the local population. With the support of her pharmacist, Mike, Helen continues to provide exceptional service and care to her customers.
Helen was inspired to start her business after she noticed a significant gap in patient education and access to healthcare resources. She saw an opportunity to make a difference and dove right in.
When the chance to purchase Stockmen's Drug came up, she realized it was a unique way to advocate for her patients beyond the clinical setting. With no background in business, pharmacy or accounting, Helen's determination to bridge the healthcare gap led her to take on this challenge.
Stockmen's Drug is special because it combines the expertise of Helen, a Registered Nurse, with a community-focused pharmacy. Unlike traditional pharmacies, her approach is deeply rooted in patient care and education. Helen's business aims to close the gaps in healthcare access by providing essential healthcare services and unique retail products that the local community cannot find elsewhere.
For example, her second location, Stockmen's Drug Crawford, is one of the few telepharmacies in the nation. Between the two stores, she is able to provide health care access to over 200 miles of Rural communities. Her dedication to understanding the community's needs sets Stockmen's Drug apart as a vital, innovative resource for health and wellness.
Helen was influenced to seek help from SCORE after the immense challenges she faced in taking over Stockmen's Drug. With no background in business, she found herself overwhelmed and burnt out, often working from 6:00 AM until 1:00 AM the next day.
Helen discovered SCORE while browsing the SBA website, and was impressed by the array of resources available. She knew she needed this support to improve her efficiency and effectiveness as a new business owner.
Helen emphasizes that SCORE mentors have been incredibly helpful since she took over Stockmen's Drug. The personalized mentoring has guided her through the complexities of running a multifaceted business and provided her with the knowledge and confidence to succeed.
The workshops and webinars have also been invaluable by teaching her essential skills like time management, marketing, staff management and pitching her business to investors and others.
Helen's experience with her SCORE mentor, Alan, has been incredibly positive. Since their first meeting, Alan has provided continuous support and invaluable guidance. The patience and expertise Alan offers have been crucial in helping Helen navigate the complexities of running Stockmen's Drug.
"Alan is great because he's so easy to talk to. He's patient, he's knowledgeable, and if I send him a text message or call him during the day, he responds right away," Helen said.
Helen advises other small business owners to embrace the challenges and seek out resources like SCORE to guide them through the process. She believes that connecting with mentors and leveraging available resources can significantly enhance business growth. Helen also highlights the value of persistence and dedication to overcome obstacles and achieve long-term goals in the business world.
Helen advises anyone considering working with SCORE to take the plunge, and highly recommends SCORE services to both startups and seasoned business owners. Helen advises approaching SCORE with an open mind, embracing their tools and resources for business success, and being open to constructive criticism.
"If I had to give somebody advice about working with SCORE, I would say absolutely do it," Helen said.
Extensive experience in Retail, Convenience Store Operations, Catering, Supermarkets Advertising...
