Tashelle Ball is the owner and operator of Specialized Quality Care LLC, which provides individualized supportive services to individuals with Developmental Disabilities. We had a chance to sit down with her to ask about her experience with entrepreneurship and LAEDA's training program.
(1) LAEDA: Entrepreneurship is a very challenging path to take with many different possible directions. What made you decide to become an entrepreneur?
Growing up, I never imagined becoming a business owner was obtainable for me. Little did I know it was closer than I had expected. As a child, my curiosity always led me to wonder who owned all the buildings and businesses that we as consumers would spend our funds in exchange for these products and services.
Throughout my life, education and climbing the corporate ladder was something that was ingrained in me from my surroundings and society. Therefore, I did it. I graduated from college and began the career journey. After a decade of being a dedicated employee, the journey ended. That was it. What happens now? Quitting was never an option so the journey continued in the same field. During the process, a fire ignited in me and I realized I was one-step away from creating the freedom I was looking for. Freedom with my lifestyle, finances and most importantly my time. A passion was fueled in me to create a positive work environment for others who enjoyed helping families and making an impact in the community. Therefore, I ultimately took a leap of faith and began the process towards the journey of entrepreneurship.
(2) LAEDA: Why did you choose your industry?
The human services field has always been my passion. During my career path, program operations became my expertise. An opportunity presented itself for me to begin learning about individuals with Autism, Developmental Disabilities and other special needs and from there I began to learn about regulations, licensure and the fundamentals of overseeing the division. My industry found me and with my prior experience, I knew this was something I was great at and something I enjoyed.
(3) LAEDA: Tell me about your experience while attending EDTP. What have the major takeaways been from the program? Have you had any “Ah-ha!” moments? How did the program help you?
The Entrepreneurial Development Training Program came along at a pivotal time in my business journey. The program has helped me take a better dive into the areas of business that I may not be as familiar with. There is always something to learn and improve no matter how knowledgeable you are. It helped me understand the importance of building relationships and collaborating with like-minded business owners. I really enjoyed the collaboration and fellowship with my cohorts and facilitators in passing. That was an "Ah-ha" moment" for me. I realized this entrepreneurial journey does not have to be done alone. No one can do everything! There is strength in collaborations, networking and sharing resources. I am so grateful for the EDTP program and the team members that helps us business owners navigate our way on a day-to-day basis.
(4) LAEDA: Tell me about your journey on the road to business start-up. What have been some of the challenges, successes, failures, etc.?
Being involved in the community was something I have always been passionate about; I used to dream about owning my own non-profit/for-profit and providing exceptional services to those in need in the surrounding counties. One day with my dedication, experiences, passion and hard work it finally happened. While the journey has been amazing, there have been many challenges like any other business.
Specialized Quality Care was founded in the midst of a global pandemic. Our services are primarily driven on community-based support. With restrictions with human interaction, it was very challenging to obtain clients and employees to support those teams. Like any journey, you learn to navigate your way through the obstacles until the obstacles become a strength.
(5) LAEDA: Could you tell me a little about where your business is today?
Today, Specialized Quality Care continues to grow and thrive. Over the last few years, we have provided supportive services to numerous participants and families. This has helped us employ and create a positive work environment for many exceptional team members. Our service type continues to improve and grow with each passing year and we are thankful for the many opportunities to expand within Southern New Jersey.
(6) LAEDA: Do you have any advice for future (or existing) entrepreneurs?
My advice to future (or existing) entrepreneurs is to Stay Consistent and Keep Going! The entrepreneurial journey has its challenges and rewards! To be very transparent, there may be times when you think of giving up. Keep going! Connect with other business owners and agencies like LAEDA who can support you. Be open to new directions and services to keep your business innovative. Change is good! Allow your business to have flexibility to adapt to the needs of the consumers.
More about Specialized Quality Care LLC:
Specialized Quality Care provides individualized supportive services to individuals with Developmental Disabilities. We equip participants with the tools to navigate through their day–to-day lives. We are an Approved Service Provider through the New Jersey Department of Human Services Division of Developmental Disabilities. Our service areas include Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Mercer, Monmouth and Ocean County.
Specialized Quality Care LLC ARE CURRENTLY ACCEPTING PARTICIPANTS!
Feel free to reach out to a member of our team. For additional information, please email us at
info@yourqualitycare.org or contact us directly at (856) 521-3033. A member of our team will respond right away. You may visit our website at
https://www.sqcare.org/.
Where Tashelle Ball can be reached:
Business: Specialized Quality Care
Address: 811 Church Road Cherry Hill NJ 08002 (by appointment only)
Phone: (856) 521-3033
Follow Specialized Quality Care on social media for each platform:
POC: Tashelle Ball
Direct Email: tball@yourqualitycare.org
About the Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP):
The Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP) is a free, nine-week business skills training course offered in Camden, NJ in the Spring and Fall each year. Qualified entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and continued technical assistance. Apply online at
www.LAEDA.com.