Today marks the sixth annual Small Business Saturday, sponsored by American Express. The goal of Small Business Saturday is to promote holiday shopping at locally-owned businesses. Last year, an estimated $14.3 billion (yes, with a B) were reinvested into local economies. A 2004 study showed that spending one dollar at a local business keeps 68 cents in the local economy, while spending that same dollar at a chain or big-box store only keeps 43 cents in the local economy. Shopping at a chain store means over half the money you spend leaves the local community.

I’m proud to work for a locally-owned independent pharmacy where we support our patients, but more importantly – we support our community. Our owner is active with his church and his children’s school, and has coached his kids’ sports teams for years. The pharmacy works closely with the Salvation Army and other local homeless shelters to provide much needed medications to the indigent population.

To serve our profession, we accept student pharmacists for introductory and advanced pharmacy practice experiences from my alma mater, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore School of Pharmacy. Our pharmacists also serve on committees and task forces at the local health department. We schedule health fairs and give talks to local groups, including Blind Industries and Services of Maryland, Peninsula Regional Medical Center Diabetes Support Group, the Eastern Shore Lyme Association, and many others. We make a difference in our community, and we have our loyal, local patrons to thank for that opportunity.

I would encourage you to #ShopSmall as you prepare for the holidays this year, and contribute to your local economy. Never been to a local boutique shop or coffee house? Try it – I’m sure you’ll enjoy your experience!