Ann Potorti and Michelle Engler-Brooks - - Will County, Illinois
Ann and Michelle first formed a friendship as co-leaders of their daughters’ Girl Scout troop in Mokena, then a KCC franchise. Their entrepreneurial ways merged in fall 2020 when Michelle and Ann purchased the successful southern Chicago suburban sale.
The tenets of the Girl Scouts - - to be honest and fair, friendly and helpful, considerate and caring, courageous and strong - - are also the primary precepts of their lives, Ann says.
“Our sale is very community- and family-based,” she said. “Female empowerment is also important. By owning and running this sale, Michelle and I are sending a message to our daughters that it’s never too late to follow your dreams.”
A court reporter by day, Michelle is project-oriented and brings her proficient note-taking abilities to the business. Ann is a Revenue Manager and understands hospitality and the financial aspect of the sales.Michelle and Ann recognize the homegrown economic advantages by both selling and shopping for items at the Kid’s Closet Connection sales.
“During times of uncertainty, one thing you can count on is children growing, and that gives us all hope,” Michelle says. “We saw the opportunity to grow this business in our community together, and that we are also involving our daughters is an added bonus.”
