We were lucky to catch up with Larry Cervarich recently and have shared our conversation below.

Larry, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Is there a heartwarming story from your career that you look back on?

Several year ago, I used a Senior Meal program called Meals on Wheels to assist my mother, and to assure that she was obtaining her nutritional meals. After a period of time, I became a board member of the local Meals on Wheels program. In time my mother had passed away. through medial reasons.
I moved to Arizona a few years later (2006) and decided to develop a similar meal program for seniors. I wanted to create a meal program that was simplified and had Quality and Quantity…… I developed a meal program that the volunteers that delivered the meals was PROUD of what they served, and the senior client was delighted to receive a freshly prepared hot meal…..realdy to eat.
Never FROZEN and no preparation.
The past fiscal year we served over 33,000 meals, and projecting 38,000 plus in the coming year. The local county that we serve has over 20,000 seniors living under the poverty level. Many have medical and financial issues.
Our complete team of culinary staff, office staff, and volunteers have a unique passion to see that the seniors receive a quality meal. The ring of the doorbell may be the arrival of the only person they might see all day. Bringing a welcome smile, healthy prepared meals……..and care that makes their day. A time to socialize and to keep an eye out for their wellness and safety issues.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Developing a nonprofit mission takes time and passion of what you wish to achieve. I have always been a person to give rather than take. I do not like to see seniors suffer or live their lives without assistance. Most seniors have worked hard most of their life to provide for our future.
At the age of 16 I started working at a local restaurant and enjoyed the food industry to the point of making it a career. I became an owner of a few restaurants and catering companies. Quality food and good service was always a challenge that created a success. The culinary industry became exciting and a joy as time proceeded. At a young age I didn’t realize that it would eventually become my occupation.
Through Meals of Joy, I have witnessed senior clients that are living on less than $700-$800 per month. Some with serious medical issues, such as partially blind, multiple medical surgeries, depression, and loneliness. Our mission is to continue to help those in need and to give them a better life.
In order to be a success, one must be caring for others and above all treat your staff and volunteers like you would want to be treated. With respect and passion.
To succeed any your life………passion is important.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

To succeed in any career passion and love for what you are doing is important. My Father said, ” If you wake up in the morning and are not happy of what you are doing……….it is time to change your career.. I followed that advice throughout the rest of my life. If you are not happy of what you are doing……why continue?
Treat people well………family, friends, fellow employees, and they will treat you as well.

Can you talk to us about your experience with buying businesses?

I had purchased a couple of restaurants big and small in the beginning. In time I learned to be cautious of the type of investment.
I would not recommend a partnership with family (relatives), or a friend. If one can financially purchase the business alone…… I would highly recommend it.
In one case I eventually had to buy my partner out. It is not a pleasant situation. Do it alone, or don’t do it.

Image Credits

Don Mellon
Jackie Meck