Brighter Day Workout Program LLC

Jennifer Graham, President
Founded:  2008
Primary Business:  Creative Movement & Exercise for Adults with Dementia
www.BrighterDayWorkout.com

The founder…

Jennifer Graham, a dedicated activities professional, designed a program with caregivers and activity professionals in mind and then formed her very own LLC.  As a young entrepreneur, Jennifer saw a need and filled it.  She works as an activities director at a local assisted living community.

Finding a need and filling it…

Ms. Graham determined that caregivers and activities professionals needed something to help their loved ones and patients.  They needed a tool to help individuals with Alzheimer’s burn off restless energy, increase flexibility, improve circulation, and help with activities of daily living.  "The whole DVD idea came to me rather slowly. It became clear to me that our residents with dementia needed a good quality exercise program that suited them, met their special needs, and was available anytime. I'd had great success with the classes that I led daily and it seemed only natural that I'd be great at leading exercise via video.”  And so began the exciting and educational process of making the video.  It was a perfect solution for her and their residents, they could have the exercises they loved and she could occasionally have a day off.

How did the SBDC help...

Not only did Ms. Graham produce a product, she is now a small business owner and having never run a business before, knew she needed support.  "The SBDC has given me the support I needed to turn a great idea into a blossoming cottage industry. The initial seminar at Ivy Tech helped me to understand the idea of having a business plan and how important it is to think through every aspect of the business from funding and buying merchandise to marketing and limiting the company's growth. With so much "food for thought" I became overwhelmed with enthusiasm for my product, but unsure about several details. It was clear that I needed more help. I met with Sheryl Olivey at the SBDC and she quickly assured me that I was on the right track. She made several useful suggestions, expanding my professional relationships helping me be even more successful. Knowing that a great organization like the SBDC exists to help folks like me really erases many of my worries about starting a small business. I truly appreciate the guidance and suggestions and look forward to a long and successful relationship!"

What does the future hold…

"When I think of the future of my company, I see the birth of several more products. I think it’s only natural to want to do a series. I've learned so much with the first DVD, I'd love to use that knowledge and confidence to pursue other related projects.

It makes Ms. Graham extremely happy to think of the potential impact of her product. Exercise DVDs made specifically for adults with dementia gives professional and home caregivers a wonderful tool to help those they care for. It seems so simple, but it really does make a difference.