SCORE Mentors
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06/05/2026
“Financial decisions should be inclusive and collaborative.”
When Pamela Chen launched Refresh Investments, she brought deep expertise to the table as both a CPA and CFA. But like many entrepreneurs, she quickly discovered that building a business requires more than mastering your craft.
As she worked to grow her financial planning and investment firm, Pam turned to SCORE mentor Bill Ehrlich for guidance on scaling sustainably. Together, they developed a plan focused on team building, marketing, and operational efficiency.
The results were transformative. Pam launched a new website, created an Advisory Board, hosted educational webinars, and streamlined her operations, allowing her to focus on serving clients while growing the business.
What truly sets Refresh Investments apart is its approach. In an industry that can often feel intimidating, Pam has built a firm where clients are encouraged to ask questions, understand their options, and actively participate in the decision-making process.
By combining expert guidance with a collaborative philosophy, Refresh Investments is helping make financial planning more accessible for women and their families.
A small business owner and their mentor 💁♀️
06/01/2026
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“I took a class in business school about becoming an entrepreneur by acquiring someone else’s great idea. The concept resonated with me.”
After nearly a decade in corporate America, the owner of Blue Wrench Truck and Auto Repair decided it was time to make the leap.
In 2022, he and his business partner acquired a repair shop with more than 30 years of history serving Idaho's Treasure Valley. But buying a business and growing one are two very different challenges.
That’s why he reached out to SCORE almost immediately.
What he found wasn't just advice. It was a team of experienced business leaders willing to challenge assumptions, offer honest feedback, and help chart a smarter path forward. When he considered pursuing government contracts, his mentors advised a different route. Their guidance helped him focus on opportunities that better aligned with his goals and resources.
Since then, monthly meetings with SCORE mentors Dave and Don have become a cornerstone of the business's growth. From hiring and HR to marketing and expansion, they serve as trusted advisors and accountability partners.
“Having an experienced group of business experts as a sounding board is extremely helpful.”
Today, Blue Wrench continues to grow, serving everyone from Kenworth trucks to Honda sedans and helping keep the Treasure Valley moving.
Learn how SCORE helped turn a business acquisition into a growth strategy.
10/07/2025
“It’s not about finding yourself. It’s about shedding what is holding you back.”
Fermented Felon Founder Tony Horner was no stranger to the word no.
- Denied employment from a call center for his criminal history.
- Denied an SBA loan from a bank because of his criminal history.
- Denied admission to professional investment classes because of his criminal history.
- Denied access to trade school because of his criminal history.
- Denied admission to college programs because of his criminal history.
From incarceration to innovation, kombucha was Tony’s big YES.
Fermented Felon combines the restorative powers of kombucha with Tony’s belief in fresh starts. Consumers can sip on handcrafted flavors like Profound Peach and Raspberry Respect while supporting their mission to uplift lives impacted by the justice system.
Tony may have developed a winning kombucha recipe but when he needed business support, he turned to SCORE.
“My SCORE mentor was phenomenal. He had the formula for success.”
10/07/2025
💡 Ready to take your business to the next level? SCORE offers free live webinars and local workshops to help you start, grow, and thrive.
09/25/2025
Inspired by her stepson with autism, Wendy Dawson co-founded Incuentro LLC with Brandi Timmons, MEd, BCBA, LBA, to support neurodiverse individuals through technology and human-centered design.
With guidance from SCORE, Wendy and Brandi refined their strategy, strengthened operations and secured a grant to increase their impact.
Are you ready to take your business to the next level? SCORE offers a wealth of valuable resources to help you succeed and our experienced mentors are here to guide you every step of the way. ➡https://score.org/centraloregon
📷: SCORE client Wendy Dawson, CEO of Incuentro LLC
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