Black History Month Business Spotlight

In celebration of Black History Month, we're highlighting a thriving business that is making an impact in the Frederick Community: AlbenizCares.

What services does your organization offer? 

Balance and Mobility, Lymphedema, Diabetes prevention, education & Management, Orthopedic, Wound and Skincare 

What motivated you to open your business in Frederick County, MD?

I’m based in Frederick County, and Frederick County is known to support small businesses.  

What is one of the best aspects of having your business in FC? 

  • Autonomy  

  • Flexibility 

  • Service to Community - Provide services to make it readily available to the community and my neighborhood 

  • Providing adequate time for the family  

In light of Black History Month, who or what has inspired you the most to help get you where you are today? 

Working for the Maryland Department of Health as an Infection control nurse during Covid in 2020 inspired me to start my own business. During this time, I moved from one facility to another, educating the health facility leaders on ways to minimize or prevent the spread of infection. This made me aware of the critical importance of public health education, and because I lived in Frederick, I believed I could start this business to benefit my community.  

Persons who have encouraged me to embark on this dream include Emerita Professor Elizabeth Schandorf, Dr. Justina Shaw (late), Richard Roberts, Paul Frey, Deborah Armstrong with Connections, Adrian, Richard Paden of APEX Accelerator, Philip Chintu and Herb Melrath of SBDC. 

What book has significantly impacted your career, mindset, and/or leadership style? 

I have read a lot of books. But out of the lot, I will reference How to Enjoy Your Life and Your Job by Dale Carnegie, published by Gallery Books, then Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill, published by The Ralston Society. 

Share one tip for anyone considering starting their own business. 

Do it! Follow your dream, but make sure you have clientele and a demand for your product. You can get a consultant to assist you, or you can give me a call. I am available to assist.  

Being a business owner places you in the position of Leadership. What aspect of leadership do you hang your hat on/feel is most important? 

I use Robert K. Greenleaf's servant leadership approach. This style prioritizes employee growth, well-being, and empowerment and aims to create an inclusive environment.  

What else do you want your audience to know about you or your business? 

Albeniz Cares also provides therapy services, which help empower people to regain their independence and engage in activities they enjoy! We also support community colleges with entrepreneurial programs by assisting in training youth and adults interested in learning on the job and preparing them to enter the workforce. 

Jessica Mills