Copyright Staten Island Advance
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Staten Island Business Outreach Center will recognize five local entrepreneurs for their community impact at its annual Empowerment Breakfast. The event, scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 12, at LiGreci’s Staaten, will honor business leaders whose leadership, volunteerism and integrity have made lasting contributions to Staten Island. “For more than four decades, SIBOC has worked to strengthen Staten Island’s small business community,” said Nina Flores, executive director of SIBOC. “These honorees truly reflect our mission of service, growth and leadership. Each one has shown how business success and community commitment go hand in hand.” This year’s honorees include: Robert J. Fitzsimmons Jr., president of Gateway Arms Realty, who has secured building purchases for numerous local nonprofits, including Seamen’s Society, St. George Theatre and Project Hospitality. As senior property manager, Fitzsimmons leads the agency’s commercial, co-op, condo and HOA divisions. Laura Volsario, vice president and director of operations at Gateway Arms Realty, will also be recognized. Volsario manages the company’s sales division and serves on multiple boards including the Forest Avenue Business Improvement District, Staten Island Chamber of Commerce and SIBOC itself. Shawn Stradford, president and CEO of Stradford Funeral Home and Cremations Inc., brings over two decades of compassionate service to West Brighton. Beyond his funeral service background, Stradford leads charitable initiatives including clothing drives, school supply donations and holiday giveaways. Hala Maroc, founder of Build a Dream Incubator, operates the Island’s only co-working space dedicated to creatives and entrepreneurs. Her multimedia background includes producing and hosting programs for iHeartMedia, SiriusXM and FoxSoul. Stephen Molloy, who founded Molloy Electric Inc. in 2011. His MWBE-certified electrical contracting company serves both residential and commercial clients across Staten Island. Founded in 1980, SIBOC operates as a 501c3 nonprofit providing technical assistance, business development programs and commercial corridor improvements for Staten Island’s North Shore. The organization aims to empower entrepreneurs, create growth opportunities and foster economic vitality. The breakfast begins at 8:30 a.m. on Nov. 12 at LiGreci’s Staaten, 697 Forest Ave., West Brighton. Tickets cost $65. For tickets, sponsorship opportunities or more information, contact SIBOC at 718-816-4775 or visit its website.
