Small Business of the Year : One Life Prints
One Life Prints Owner and President , Travis Graham , has lived in Gilroy for over 35 years . Since founding his company 17 years ago , he has led his team in community service through creative fundraising , sponsorship of local nonprofits , and by supporting other local businesses and organizations .
In 2019 , the company raised over $ 36,000 working with the Gilroy Foundation to support the victims of the Gilroy Garlic Festival tragedy . They held a two-week sale of custom designed shirts and hats and partnered with the San Francisco Giants and San Jose Sharks on fundraising efforts in San Jose and San Francisco . One Life Prints hosts a yearly Golf Tournament fundraiser at Gilroy Golf Course to support local nonprofits . They hire only Gilroy Caterers and partner exclusively with local companies . Recent recipient agencies include the Latino Family Fund , Kneaded Bakery , and Unravel Pediatric Cancer . Other nonprofits that have benefited from One Life Prints generous support include Rebekah Children ’ s Services , Gilroy Little League , Gilroy Browns , among many others . They offer discounted setups and art fees to all Santa Clara County and San Benito County nonprofits .
Graham understands the important relationship between the community ’ s well-being and businesses giving back . “ Many parts of our community are in need and don ’ t get county , state , or federal help . Our nonprofits in town are excellent at finding those needs .” He notes . “ Without businesses and individuals giving to those nonprofits , they would not be able to fulfill the community ’ s needs .
2023 Spice of Life
Young Professional of the Year : Mark Jacobsen
Mark understands the importance of allowing the younger community members to get involved . In 1999 , at age nine , he became the youngest member of the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce . His mentor was his mom , former Board Chair and Woman of the Year , Susan Jacobsen , spend her time giving back to the community .
Mark was the Volunteer of the Year in 2009 for his service to the community through the Gilroy Garlic Festival and the Chamber of Commerce . His experiences have shaped the way he thinks about community , leadership , and connection .
You won ’ t find Mark in the spotlight . You will find him working hard behind the scenes to get things done . He is passionate about building community , supporting others , and providing opportunities for young community members to learn and grow . After a long professional career in restaurant management , Mark opened his own restaurant — Poki Bowl in Gilroy — where he encourages his staff members to ask any questions and learn about the restaurant business . He also reminds them of the importance of giving back . Since opening his restaurant , Mark has continued to give back by participating in , and donating to , events and organizations supporting local schools .
Mark encourages young leaders to take an active role in serving their community to learn the importance of volunteering and community building . “ As a leader , you must consider how you can support those around you , rather than focusing on your own personal gains .”
gmhtoday . com gmhTODAY Magazine : Go . Make history ... SUMMER 2023 21