Since its inception in 1964, SCORE has drastically expanded and evolved to help entrepreneurs launch and grow their small businesses.
Originally a group of retired executives, SCORE now encompasses a nationwide network of more than 10,000 volunteer mentors — half of whom are still actively working in their fields — to guide entrepreneurs on the path to success.
As the nonprofit organization celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, its various chapters spanning the country — including SCORE Bucks County — are reflecting on its six decades of providing vital support in what can oftentimes be a confusing and stressful journey.
Over the past six decades, SCORE as a whole has provided mentoring support and education to more than 17 million entrepreneurs through one-on-one consultations, in-person and online workshops, learning modules and more. Last year, volunteers helped start 31,167 new businesses and create 152,115 total jobs nationwide, donating 4.5 million hours of service in the process.
SCORE Bucks County alone provided nearly 2,800 mentoring sessions in fiscal year 2024, a 20% increase over 2023, and is on track to continue that upward trajectory.
This year saw a number of success stories, including JaHannah Queen Mary Pitchford, 24, whom The Times introduced readers to in September. With the help of her SCORE mentor Nina De Rosa, who guided her in finding an accountant, reviewing financials, marketing, applying for grants, developing a business plan and finding a space for the business, Pitchford successfully opened Queen’s Palace Wax & Beauty Salon in June in Feasterville.
The local chapter, established in 1987, serves all of Bucks County and eastern Montgomery County.
“Our 70 mentors bring broad business experience to bear on the local small business community,” said SCORE Bucks County co-chairs Leah Cianfrani and Charlie Morris. “We’re excited to continue to serve our community as SCORE celebrates 60 years of service.”
Locally and nationally, SCORE is working to keep up with the ever-changing world and business landscape, utilizing technology to offer on-demand online learning modules, remote mentoring and specialized local workshops. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, SCORE quickly pivoted to deliver 100% virtual mentoring and education without missing a single day of service.
This year, SCORE Bucks County volunteers helped spearhead the “One SCORE” Mid-Atlantic regional educational initiative, which resulted in 50% more workshop attendees receiving SCORE education services.
The organization has also grown to embrace diversity among clients and volunteers. Sixty-five percent of SCORE clients are women, 46% are minorities, 13% have disabilities and 9% are veterans.
Still, SCORE isn’t slowing down anytime soon, and is currently working to evolve operations, resources and volunteer training to support future generations of small business owners, providing expert mentoring and resources to help every small business owner address their unique business needs and challenges.
Visit score.org/buckscounty for more information.
