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Frequently Asked Questions

What is SCORE’s mission?

SCORE grows successful small businesses across America, one business at a time.

Who are SCORE volunteers?

SCORE volunteers are successful business professionals. The men and women who serve as SCORE counselors have owned, operated and/or managed businesses. The skills of business counselors represent different talents, generations, minority/ethnic groups and strengths. The variety of people and skills adds value to the quality of SCORE's business advice.

Do I have to be retired to join SCORE?

No. Many SCORE volunteers own businesses, manage corporations or own consulting firms. These working professionals contribute to SCORE as counselors and workshop presenters, just as our retired professionals volunteer. Both retired and working professionals are welcome in SCORE.

How can I join SCORE?

To join SCORE’s Southeastern Illinois chapter, call 217-581-3522 for information. You will be promptly called by a volunteer committee member for a face-to-face meeting to introduce you to our local chapter and answer any questions you may have.

Why does SCORE interview candidates before accepting volunteers?

There are many business people with exceptional business management skills. However, transferring business skills into a counseling and mentoring situation requires additional and different skills than a business owner or manager may have used in his or her career. The interview process allows both the SCORE chapter and the potential SCORE volunteer to see if this volunteer opportunity is a good fit for the organization and potential counselor.

Why does SCORE provide a volunteer training program?

All new SCORE volunteers participate in an orientation and training program, so they understand SCORE's mission, services and the opportunities for volunteer participation. Orientation also provides guidance on how to be a business counselor and apply new listening, interviewing and problem-solving skills—specifically to business counseling and mentoring.

What resources and tools are available to volunteers?

Upon joining, each new volunteer receives a SCORE Volunteer Guide. SCORE Today, a monthly newsletter for volunteers, offers insights and news on SCORE, chapter activities and small business resources. In addition, all volunteers have access to the online Volunteer Center at www.score.org.