Client Spotlight: Jesse Bolinger

Meet Jesse

Jesse Bolinger and his wife Serene own DaaBIN STORE in Mason City, a treasure hunt retail store that sells overstock and returned merchandise. After years of experience as a nonprofit consultant, Jesse was ready for a change of pace. When he learned the previous owner was looking to sell the franchise location, he saw a chance to try something new and jumped at the opportunity. Jesse and Serene purchased the store in August, and since then, they have been working to improve operations and explore new ways to sell their products.

Jesse shares that his favorite part of business ownership is the freedom to be creative, connect with the community, and hire a diverse team.

Working with IDB

Jesse has been connected with the Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB) since childhood, receiving educational support and orientation and mobility training that helped him throughout his education. With IDB's support, he earned a terminal degree in human services and went on to build a career helping nonprofits grow and develop, establishing one to two nonprofits each year. He credits his vocational rehabilitation counselor with providing encouragement, ideas, and connections as he explored different career paths and pursued business ownership.

Final Insights

Although Jesse has extensive experience running businesses, entering the treasure hunt retail industry presented a new set of challenges. He had to learn everything from purchasing and sorting pallets to operating a cash register and managing the day-to-day operations of a retail store. Through continued problem-solving and a willingness to learn, Jesse and his wife are finding new ways to grow their business, including selling through online platforms, traveling to events across Iowa, and exploring new opportunities to reach customers beyond their storefront.

"Business ownership is a joy for me, and it's something that I think more people with disabilities should consider. It's something that I think a lot of members of the blindness community discount because of public perception, but I think there's a lot of untapped opportunity for them and for our communities in general."

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