The Gospel Truth Magazine May 2019 | Page 7

environment. The GROW concept came from his desire to not just create a place to go, but a place to go and GROW. At The Oa- sis members will benefit from having access to high speed internet, conference rooms, private meeting rooms, mail and package handling, copy and print service, notary services, ample parking, and so much more. Danny plans to offer courses that are growth driven and education centered. Through technical assistance workshops, training, and mentorships from business leaders and educators from across the country, mem- bers will be afforded an opportunity to be- come empowered and equipped with the resources needed for continued growth and success.Topics include; Business Structure, Building Capacity, QuickBooks and Ac- counting, Venture Capital, Grant Writing, SBA Loans, Working Capital, Developing an Elevator Pitch, HR Issues, Marketing, Social Media for Business, etc. Danny gets it! He knows the importance of supporting Black Owned Businesses and keeping the wealth, capital, and resources in our communities. Danny speaks with passion as he describes growing up in an environment where exposure to successful business persons, and the inner workings of business was not the conversation around his dinner table. It was not until later in his life that God would connect him with other self-em- ployed business owners who displayed an abundance of positive energy. Working with these individuals gave him a front row seat to observe how business should be done. He watched how his friends from other cultures encouraged and empowered each other to be entrepreneurs and supported their efforts. They collaborated and worked with each other in their business endeavors. It was refreshing for Danny to see this awe- some display of camaraderie. The seed was planted for him to replicate that same en- ergy and commitment to excellence within the community he served. Danny purchased his building on June 13, 2003, exactly 30 days after the City of Miami Gardens was incorporated. He is proud that his growth coincides with the growth of the city. Danny’s business and particularly his building, The Experts Building, at 600 NW 183 Street is a local landmark. That is where the magic has happened for homeowners for more than 15 years. Now, with The Oa- sis, Danny hopes to provide that same sense of accomplishment and pride to other en- trepreneurs. As a seasoned business owner, he knows the challenges and costs associat- ed with operating a business. He is grateful to be helping others by creating a beautiful and affordable coworking community. Over the years, a number of entrepreneurs have used The Expert Building as virtual offices space to conduct business. The Oasis is the next logical step on a larger and grander scale. One of the greatest joys for Danny Felton is watching his children participate in his business ventures. As he has redesigned the building to accommodate The Oasis, his children have been involved in the process. Whether it is selecting colors or giving in- put to style, the young Felton’s seem to have acquired their dad’s knack for business. His sons have sat in on meetings with the archi- tects and designers and have assisted with selecting furniture, mounting tv’s, hang- ing pictures, and other manageable tasks. The girl assists with homebuyer workshops every second Saturday at the Experts Re- source Community Center. With 15 year old twins, a 13 and a 11 year old, conversa- tions around the dinner table often revolve around school, business and importance of leaving a legacy. Danny is passionate about his legacy and building communities. He is reminded of the statement a friend made about the need to build stronger communities vs neighbor- hoods. “We have gotten away from being neighbors, so we now just have hoods.” The key is creating positive environments where people can connect and support each other. With great attention to detail, the Oasis of- fers a that connection in a professional en- vironment. The vibrant yet soothing colors along with the contemporary decor create an inspiring work and creative experience. Growing up in Liberty City, Danny’s life is a testimony to overcoming adversity. He believes that his life experiences includ- ing serving in the military, working in law enforcement and at The Miami Herald has shaped him into the businessman that he has become. Danny knows the importance of reaching out and reaching back. He also knows the importance of not giving up. He acquired The Experts Building with an SBA loan after being turned down by two other financial institutions. According to Dan- ny, “No does not always mean no. It could mean that yes is just around the corner.” Having the opportunity to share his wisdom from what he has experienced brings great joy. Faith is also important to Danny as he acknowledges that he has come this far by faith. He is thankful for the teachings of his pastor, Rev. Arthur Jackson III at Antioch of Miami Gardens, where he serves as a Dea- con and Trustee. The Oasis of Miami Gardens will be the new convenient place for entrepreneurs to Clear their Minds and GROW their Business. It is easily accessible from all major highways, making it convenient for businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Tri-County area. Plans are being made for a June 12th Grand Opening. For more information visit www.oasismiamigardens.com