#43 - Laura Kelly - What You Need Is Not to be Fearless, You Need to be Brave

Laura Kelly is the  Founder and President of The Handwork Studio, a kids' needle arts, machine sewing and fashion studio and camps.  THS helps kids build confidence and express themselves creatively through practical arts such as knitting, embroidery, machine sewing, fashion and crafts.  Founded in 2001, today The Handwork Studio is in 10 States and 40 summer locations.  Recognized as the leading educator of kids needle arts and machine sewing, THS is currently working on its first nationally licensed at home learning tool for kids that will launch in Spring 2018.   Laura has always been passionate about kids.  Whether she was babysitting at 10, a resident assistant in college, or running The Handwork Studio, kids have been the center of her life.  She sits on the Leadership Team of Garrett Williamson Foundation, a non-profit organization that delivers quality educational and recreational programs for children in Newtown Square Pennsylvania.  Laura also served as a co-chair, along with her husband John, of Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation Lemon Ball in 2006 & 2007 raising $800,000 each year for pediatric cancer.      As an active member of The American Camp Association since 2007, Laura sits on the Local Council of Leaders as the Professional Development Chair and leads Operation Summer Camp brining tuition free camp to US military families.   Laura's other professional activities include working with young adults.  From 2012-2016, Laura was an Entrepreneur in Residence at Wharton's Small Business Development Center helping student consultants think and learn about small business issues and their solutions. In 2011 she joined Rosemont College's Capital Campaign Committee helping to raise $40 Million in funds to reach new and ambitions goals outlined in the College's Strategic Plan for it students.   Always energized by other women entrepreneurs, Laura is a member of  Savor the Success, a women's entrepreneurial network group that empowers women to dream, do and savor their best lives through education, empowerment and success tools.  Laura acts as one of the organization's Presidents of their 7 figure mentoring circles.    Laura holds a Bachelors of Science Degree in Marketing from Northeastern University and is a 2014 graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program.       Laura mentioned Upwork as a resource. She also mentioned;  Savor The Success Little Bags Big Impact