A Journey of Gratitude: How Community and Learning Fuel AMPM Security Specialists

Hello everyone,

I'm Robert Bell Sr., CEO of AMPM Security Specialists, your trusted private security provider right here in the San Francisco Bay Area. Today, I'm not just writing as a business owner, but as someone profoundly grateful for the incredible community and resources that uplift small businesses like ours.

Running a small business, often feels like a solitary journey. There are challenges, long hours, and moments where you wonder if you're truly making the impact you set out to achieve. That's why experiences like the one I recently completed are so vital, reminding us that we are not alone and that growth often comes through shared knowledge and support.

From October 14, 2024, to March 19, 2025, I had the distinct privilege of participating in the Warriors Franchise Fund presented by United Airlines, facilitated through the WRMSDC Corporate Ready Program and the Thrive Point Business Growth Collective. I want to extend my deepest thanks to the hosts and coordinators, particularly Nancy Slocum and Dina Finta, for their exceptional guidance. The resources, business tools, insights, and mentorship provided through the program's exercises and Zoom meetings have been invaluable.

This cohort wasn't just about theory; it was about practical application and growth:

Session 1: This opened my eyes to new ways of communicating the unique story of AMPM Security – not just to potential clients, but also to our dedicated employee partners and the wider community.
Session 2: In today's hyper-digital world, this was a crucial session. As a security company, protecting our information and, more importantly, our clients' information, is paramount. This session provided vital knowledge.
Session 3: Gained fantastic insights to refine our operations and strive for excellence.
Session 4: Essential knowledge for any small business looking to grow sustainably.
Session 5: Aligning our practices with responsible growth.
Session 6: This session helped consolidate all the learnings into a actionable plan.

The program culminated in a Graduation Event at the iconic Chase Center. We were tasked with giving a sales pitch – admittedly, public speaking makes me extremely nervous! But with encouragement and support, particularly a huge shout-out to Walter Wallace for his invaluable help refining my pitch, I got through it. Standing there, sharing AMPM's vision in such a grand venue, was an unforgettable experience.

This entire journey underscores the power of community. For small, minority-owned businesses like AMPM Security Specialists, knowing that programs like this exist, filled with resources, guidance, and genuinely supportive people ("beautiful souls willing to help," as I described it), is more than just helpful – it's a lifeline. It allows you to pause, take a deep breath, and realize you're part of a larger ecosystem striving for success. The lessons learned are truly long-lasting. If I had to sum up my experience in one word, it would be: GRATEFUL.

Speaking of support, I must give a very special, heartfelt thank you to Jose Pecho of SFFACC. Jose, you have been one of AMPM Security Specialists' biggest supporters, not just since Day 1, but before Day 1. Thank you for believing in me and my vision to build a trusted security provider long before the company even existed. Your faith and willingness to think of me when opportunities like this cohort arise mean the world.

This experience reinforces everything we stand for at AMPM Security Specialists. Our motto, "Big enough to serve, small enough to care," isn't just a tagline. It reflects our commitment to providing comprehensive, professional security solutions while maintaining the personal touch and dedication that builds real relationships. It aligns perfectly with our core values: H.I.T. - Honesty, Integrity, Trust. Participating in this program has only strengthened our resolve to operate with these principles at the forefront of everything we do.

I encourage everyone to check out the incredible businesses that were part of our 2024-2025 cohort and the previous graduates. Supporting fellow small businesses is crucial for our collective success: https://www.nba.com/warriors/franchisefund/2024-cohort

And to my fellow small business owners reading this: There's another cohort coming up! I cannot recommend this program enough. If you're looking for tools, resources, and a supportive network to help elevate your business, please take advantage of this opportunity. I guarantee you will gain immensely. You can apply here: https://www.nba.com/warriors/franchisefund/apply

Finally, if you're in the San Francisco Bay Area and looking for reliable, professional security services delivered with Honesty, Integrity, and Trust, look no further than AMPM Security Specialists. We are "Big enough to serve, small enough to care," and ready to discuss how we can meet your specific security needs.

Visit our website today to learn more or request a consultation: https://ampmsecurity.wixsite.com/ampmsecurityspecia-1

Thank you for reading, and thank you again to everyone involved in the Warriors Franchise Fund program for this incredible journey.

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