Steven Odzer

Steven Odzer Shares 3 Ways to Make Your Business More Charitable

Steven Odzer is a seasoned entrepreneur who has been highly successful in the business realm. Although he has worked in a variety of industries, Steven Odzer’s dedication to leveraging his business acumen in helping the less fortunate has remained a constant throughout his career.

Steven Odzer believes in infusing the spirit of philanthropy in any business he is involved in helping. For companies who are seeking methods of being more charitable, take heed to the following tips:

Incentivize Volunteer Activities

As demonstrated by Steven Odzer, one of the top ways to make a company more charitable is to incentivize volunteer activities. In other words, promoting certain causes and volunteer opportunities, offering awards/rewards for participants, giving special consideration to especially charitable employees, etc., can help encourage all employees to participate in these activities.

Take on Causes that are Affecting the Area

Another method of making one’s company more charitable according to Steven Odzer is taking on causes that directly affect the area the business is located. For instance, if there is an earthquake, flood, or hurricane in the area, employees will be much more likely to want to be involved in charitable activities that respond to these causes.

Promote Mentorship

Lastly, Steven Odzer has also shown that promoting mentorship is an excellent method of making a business more charitable. By promoting a work environment in which new or younger employees are mentored by senior employees,it allows employees to learn the importance of being charitable. This is because senior employees will already be involved in charities, and they will be able to show and tell them how embracing philanthropy has helped them enrich their lives, while also helping them to climb the corporate ladder.

About Steven Odzer

Steven OdzerA successful entrepreneur who has experienced success in the business realm since he was 18, Steven Odzer kickstarted his first company in his parents’ basement. Impressively, Steven Odzer went on to be named the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2000 in the area of distribution. Steven Odzer is known for providing donations and funding to both Jewish and non-Jewish causes for the majority of his career. Steven Odzer is known for being an immense supporter of Bris Avrohom, which is a non-profit that helps immigrants moving to the US from Russia. Steven Odzer continues to serve as a shining example for those who are interested in entrepreneurship and philanthropy alike.

Steven Odzer Assists in the Fight Against COVID 19 With Sizable Donation

It is utterly amazing to Steven Odzer how this pandemic has brought out the best of people and the worst of people. People all over the country are stating this is not a pandemic. The reported number of people infected is too high. People are not dying from it, and wearing a mask is something they do not want to do. Most people believe that being forced to wear a face cover infringes on their rights as Americans.

Thankfully, there are people like Steven Odzer who sees the great need of our doctors, nurses, and all front-line workers as they give 100% to fight this battle and save lives. Steven Odzer saw a desperate need, picked up the phone, and called Rabbi Eitan Rubin, who teaches Odzen’s son at the rabbi’s yeshiva, asking if the rabbi could find people to donate to buy masks and hand sanitizer, which were in very short supply. Steven Odzer did not just ask for help. He put his money where his mouth was and made a donation of $100,000 to assist in this worthy endeavor.

It is hard for one to understand that in our great affluent country how it is possible to run out of these desperately needed supplies, but states are still struggling to keep up with demand five months into the pandemic. There must be a better way.

Steven Odzer

If it were not for private individuals like Steven Odzer and Rabbi Ruben doing everything they can to assist in this shortage, heaven only knows where we would be today.

Since Steven Odzer made that call and enlisted the help of the rabbi, over 35,000 N95 respirator masks and over 4,000 hand sanitizer dispensers have made their way to New York hospitals with the promise of more to come.

Sadly, it is getting easier to hear the number of deaths on the evening news. Our self-preservation kicks in and people tend to become numb to the problem. Steven Odzer says in March and April, people were talking about it everywhere. It was the only topic of discussion. Today people seem to be of the mindset if we ignore it, it will not touch us. Until the day it does. If and when it does, hopefully, the supplies will be there to help in our recovery.

Steven Odzer believes that if we all do what we can to make donations to this worthy cause, the supplies will get to those areas which need them the most. It just takes a few minutes to make a big difference. If you wish to donate, you can contact the rabbi at [email protected].

Supporting Americans With Disabilities: How Steven Odzer Is Doing His Part

Steven Odzer Believes People With Disabilities Deserve To Shine. Here’s How He Makes That Happen

CEO of YBT Industries, Steven Odzer, is a leader in the distribution industry with over 30 years of experience. In addition to changing the way distribution is done across the United States, Steven Odzer also believes in giving everyone the opportunity to succeed in the workplace.

Steven Odzer believes in family above all else, and knows that by prioritizing the creation of employment opportunities for people with disabilities, he’s not just helping the person with a disability – he’s helping their entire family. Steven Odzer believes that all people should get a chance to work at a job they love, and people with disabilities are no exception to that rule.

Steven Odzer understands the challenges that some people with disabilities face when it comes to finding a job. Some employers worry that accommodating the needs of an employee with a disability may be too costly, and (illegally) refuse to hire a person with a disability.

Steven Odzer wants employers to know that not only is it illegal and unethical to refuse to employ someone with a disability who can perform the job – he also wants employers to know that most accommodations cost employers nothing. Government studies show that more than 2/3 of all accommodations for people with disabilities require no monetary investment from the employer.

Steven Odzer

In the event that a person with a disability has an accommodation need that would cause excessive financial strain for an employer, the employer is protected by the ADA, and cannot be sued for discrimination if they’re unable to meet that need, according to Steven Odzer.

Steven Odzer recommends having an open and honest conversation with a person who has a disability if you’re concerned about whether they’ll be able to perform the job, or if you have questions about what accommodations they may need to get the job done. Asking questions is perfectly fine – discriminating on the basis of ability is not.

Fewer than 1/4 of people who have disabilities require any Accommodations at all. Steven Odzer wants employers to understand that when they choose to hire people with disabilities, they’re making a smart move, and likely gaining an employee who will work hard and be dedicated to their position.

Steven Odzer mentions that people who have disabilities are often enthusiastic about their work, and bring joy to the workplace. Many people who have disabilities have suffered from illegal employment discrimination in the past, and are getting their fair shot at employment for the first time in their lives. This motivation and drive often boils over to other employees, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the work environment, according to Steven Odzer

Steven Odzer Discusses Using the Pandemic to Launch the Entrepreneurial Spirit

Steven Odzer Explores How Entrepreneurs Can Thrive During the Pandemic

The pandemic is causing a number of stores to close. It’s also causing businesses to re-think their business model. While it’s easy to lose hope, Steven Odzer discusses using Covid-19 to launch the entrepreneurial spirit.

Steven Odzer has been an entrepreneur for years. Based out of New York, he looks for opportunities in untapped industries. As a man who self-proclaims to think outside of the box, he even offers scholarships to college students who will go into entrepreneurial studies.

The Covid-19 pandemic has changed lives and impacted many industries around the country. Steven Odzer explains that there are ways to feed the entrepreneurial spirit because of the new opportunities that are presenting themselves.

While some people would rather close their doors and assume that nothing can be done, Steven Odzer says that this is where entrepreneurs thrive. It’s about looking at where there is a need. Entrepreneurs may look at a particular situation and get an idea of how something can be done better or differently.

Steven OdzerOpportunities exist everywhere. Steven Odzer suggests that it’s about looking at situations in a new light. Going into stores isn’t always possible. What about deliveries, drive-thrus, and pickups? What kinds of new models can be created to get products to a customer safely during the pandemic?

There may also be new products that can be created. Each and every day, Steven Odzer identifies that he sees new products being promoted on social media. These products range from masks to door openers to cleaners. People want to live their lives in the most normal way possible – and new products can help with this.

Anyone has the ability to become an entrepreneur. Steven Odzer explains that it’s about choosing not to accept the status quo. For anyone who has ever said, “I wish that there was” and goes on to explain a product that would perform a particular task, they have the entrepreneurial spirit.

Steven Odzer recommends that people look into taking the idea and turning it into a reality. Some ideas are easier to launch than others. Steven Odzer suggests writing the idea down. Research to find out if such a product already exists. Then, look into making a prototype.

Those with lots of ideas can benefit from going to college. More universities around the country are adding entrepreneurial programs to their curriculum. As someone who has generated a number of ideas over the years, Steven Odzer believes it’s important to learn how to be a successful entrepreneur.

Although Covid-19 has a negative connotation because of the health issues, it doesn’t have to be completely negative. Steven Odzer urges anyone with ideas on how to improve life to move forward with them. There are opportunities everywhere, and it’s all a matter of choosing to take advantage of them.

Steven Odzer Explores Entrepreneurial Scholarships for Students

Students of All Faiths Can Find Scholarships for Entrepreneurial Studies, Steven Odzer Explains

College is expensive. US News & World Report recently identified that the cost of college tuition is on the rise. For state colleges and universities, the average tuition is $11,260 while private universities average $41,426. Steven Odzer, an entrepreneur in the distribution industry, talks about the scholarships available that can help offset the costs.

Steven Odzer has been an entrepreneur for over 30 years. He believes in promoting the entrepreneurial spirit as it is responsible for the latest innovation.

With more schools offering entrepreneurial studies as a major, Steven Odzer identifies the importance of pursuing the degree. It can ensure that students understand the concepts of creating a business plan, conducting market research, and understanding the elements of being successful.

Steven Odzer has wanted to help his community for years. It’s why he created the Stephen Odzer Scholarship Program. He wants to support both Jewish and non-Jewish causes.  The program gives out 20 scholarships, each valued at $1,000. High school students can apply by writing an essay on the biggest issue facing modern society.

Steven Odzer

The scholarship is just one of the many that students can apply for. Steven Odzer, who started his first company when he was 18, from his parents’ basement, believes that the entrepreneurial spirit should be supported. For those who cannot afford college or who don’t want to end up with student loans for years, there are countless scholarships.

Some are only for $500 while others can be worth $10,000 and even more. Steven Odzer recommends such scholarships as the Lance Surety’s College Scholarship, the Kitchen Cabinet Kings Entrepreneur Scholarship, and the Rapid Formations Entrepreneur Programme.

One thing that Steven Odzer recognizes that all of the scholarships have in common is the need to write an essay. In the world of business, he explains, being able to write and express one’s thoughts is of the utmost importance.

Students need to take action when they want to be an entrepreneur. Steven Odzer says that being an entrepreneur is about being a self-starter and having grit. He suggests that in order to develop those skills, it starts by sending out countless applications to the various organizations. Thousands of scholarships are out there, and many of them go unclaimed each year.

Getting a good education is critical, Steven Odzer explains. With more and more colleges focusing on ways to turn people into good entrepreneurs and more businesses offering internships, there are more opportunities than ever before.

Steven Odzer offers his scholarship on an annual basis and is currently accepting applications for Fall 2020. As for the other scholarships, he says that it never hurts to apply. Focus on writing a good essay and ensuring that the deadlines are closely adhered to. With enough scholarships, the cost of college is no longer overwhelming.

Steven Odzer Celebrates 30 Years in the Distribution Business

Steven Odzer sits down to talk about his 30 years working and promoting innovation in the distribution industry.

Steven Odzer is a name that many business professionals in New York associate with the distribution industry. As of this year, Steven Odzer will have spent 30 years in the distribution business. This experience not only stands as an admirable achievement and milestone but also as a moment of reflection for Mr. Odzer. 

Steven Odzer Discusses the Most Important Lessons He Learned From 30 Years in the Distribution Business

These 30 years taught Steven Odzer many valuable lessons, which he is happy to share with the world. Here’s what he had to say:

  • “Working in distribution is all about efficiency. 30 years ago, we didn’t have the kind of technology we have today. Things are speeding up at an unprecedented rate and I like to think that I’ve been at the forefront of these changes, at least where distribution is concerned. I’ve always encouraged my teams and suppliers to adapt to the latest processes to ensure the satisfaction of the supplier, the client, and my company.” – Steven Odzer

 

  • “Spending 30 years in the same industry is not without its drawbacks. You always look back and wonder what would have changed if I had taken a different path. Forgive me; I tend to get nostalgic about my career. But I wouldn’t have it any other way. My family and I have been extremely happy with the success I’ve achieved. I don’t like to brag, but I like to think that I’m one of the best distributors in the northeast!” – Steven Odzer

 

  • “The customer or client is always right. This applies whether you’re managing a restaurant or a large distribution team. If my client sets a tight deadline, I don’t argue. I don’t say that it can’t be done. I make it happen. In my mind, there’s no excuse to deliver late shipments or dissatisfy the client. That’s a clear sign that there’s something wrong with the management or distribution process.” – Steven Odzer

 

  • “To me, my career has been one of the most important aspects of my life. However, it doesn’t come first. My family and my faith come before everything else. That said, I’ve been very lucky in my life. I’ve been able to find a healthy balance between my personal and professional life. I think that’s extremely important, especially if you work in distribution, where issues can arise at just about any time, day or night.” – Steven Odzer

 

  • “It may sound like I’m getting toward the end of my career, but when you have a passion for your work like I do, you just don’t want to stop. I want to keep going. I want to keep innovating. My goal is to retire when I physically or mentally can’t do it anymore, but not a second sooner!” – Steven Odzer
Steven Odzer

Steven Odzer Explores Attending Synagogue During the Pandemic

Synagogues around the country closed at the same time as other religious buildings. However, those in the Jewish faith struggled with this change. Going to the synagogue is a sign of community as much as it is for faith. Steven Odzer, a practicing Jew based in New York, has discussed how the pandemic has made it difficult.

As Steven Odzer explains, most people will attend synagogue services on either Shabbat eve (Friday night) or on Shabbat, either Saturday morning or late afternoon. For those who are particularly faithful, they will also go to other services throughout the week.

Once the pandemic closed the synagogue, it took a while for many to begin any kind of online offering. The worship that was live streaming was difficult for many people to feel comfortable with. It didn’t offer the same level of community. Additionally, there have been older Jews that lacked the technology to be able to take advantage of what a synagogue was offering.

While many local synagogues were not capable of adapting, Steven Odzer explains that there were several larger ones throughout New York that began offering a live worship online almost immediately. It filled the gap for those who wanted to be faithful to the Shabbat.

The biggest issue was with the upcoming Shavuot holiday that was approaching, causing many people to wonder how they would be able to remain faithful. Many synagogues began opening up at the end of May, allowing for the holiday to be celebrated.

Particularly in New York, social distancing was still being policed heavily. Steven Odzer explains that Governor Cuomo was limiting religious ceremonies to up to 10. Further, it was suggested that many ceremonies happen in parking lots or drive-ins as a way to help with social distancing. While that may have worked for some faiths, the Jewish faith is often more old-school about the way that they worship, which is where Steven Odzer has struggled.

Even now, it is still taking longer than many would like to see the services go back to normal. Depending on where a person is, it could still be weeks before a synagogue opens to the level it was in January and February.

Steven Odzer has identified that he’s doing the best that he can. He logs in for the live streaming with his family. After the streaming is over, he will often talk with some of his family and friends about what was covered. He creates the community how he can, given the “new normal” of things.

Although the synagogues are trying to keep up and provide a way to keep people in their

faith, Steven Odzer

acknowledges that many people are watching the news, eager to return to the way that things “used to be.”

Steven Odzer

Not Registered to Vote? Steven Odzer Shares Why It’s Time to Register to Vote

With election season upon us, Steven Odzer wants to encourage young Americans and anyone else who hasn’t registered to vote to do so. Research from the last election shows that the young vote accounts for about half of the voting population. Steven Odzer points out that young Americans don’t realize how much influence they have on the future of their country. In a few short years, millennials will overpower baby boomers as a population, which is why it’s so important they get out and vote. The young vote declined 2% from 52% in the 2008 election, and young voters still made up half of the voters in 2016.

Steven Odzer is very much involved in the political aspects of his community. “I am very involved with Republican Party and Republican Jewish Committee,” says Steven Odzer. Steven Odzer is aware of the importance of the young vote, which is why he supports the Republican party and the RJC. It’s essential also to get young Americans to vote and find their voice so that they can make a difference at the local and national level.

On November 12, 2019, Steven Odzer attended an event at the Economic Club where President Donald Trump gave a speech. “I’m a strong supporter of the Republican Party and the RJC, so it was an honor to attend the event,” he said. It is during events like those that inspire Steven Odzer to keep supporting the Republican party.

According to Steven Odzer, it is vital to talk to them about the importance of voting from an early age. The young population needs to understand that since they make up over half of the voting population, candidates count on the vote of Millennials. Aside from being a large group, young voters are also a diverse group. Candidates will focus on the young majority when campaigning this election season due to their diversity. Young voters come from different backgrounds, which also help diversify the vote.

Steven Odzer mentions young Americans should be more interested in voting because they were the ones who got hit the hardest during the recession of 2008. Millennials took a hit in the job market, student loans, and even healthcare. By voting, young Americans can support the leaders that best represent their financial interests.

Steven Odzer has made a name for himself in the distribution industry. Steven Odzer has served as CEO of many successful companies. Currently, YBT Industries of Henderson, NV. Steven Odzer, also dedicates a lot of time helping out the community. He supports causes such as both Jewish and non-Jewish causes, the AHRC, and Bris Avrohom.

Steven Odzer

What 30 Years in the Distribution Industry Have Been Like: An Interview with Steven Odzer

Businessman Steven Odzer is the current CEO of YBT Industries of Henderson, NV. Although he has many projects in store for his latest company, such as signing an exclusive deal with the Vegas Golden Knights, Steven Odzer had to work his way up. In 2000, Steven Odzer was named the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year in the area of distribution in the year 2000. In this interview, he shares more interesting facts about his life.

Where did you complete your education?
“I went to Yeshiva of Flatbush High School in Brooklyn. Once I graduated, I attended the Brooklyn College Scholars program,” explained Steven Odzer.

Why did you get involved in the distribution industry?
“I once said that janitorial supplies are not sexy items, but it’s big business. I think I always had the mentality of selling people products they needed. I started my first company at age 18 out of my parents’ basement. When I first started, I sold paper cups, napkins, and plates door to door in Flatbush, Brooklyn. I recognize it wasn’t a sexy business, but it was a business. It provided me a platform to create a business,” said Steven Odzer.

You’re so close to your family – what is the most essential advice your father gave you?
“My father taught me to surround myself with important people. I get my inspiration from the business connections I make. Two of my partners are billionaires, and I stay involved with the Republic Jewish Coalition. I recently joined the Economic Club, where I have been able to meet some of the most successful business leaders in the world,” Steven Odzer said.

Who are some talented people who have motivated you?
“Someone who inspired me is Barry Halper, owner of a small percentage of the New York Yankees. His advice was invaluable when I started my company. Banker, Edmond Safra also inspired and helped me a lot,” explained Steven Odzer.

What are some plans for the future you’re excited about?
“I am a big hockey fan, especially a Vegag Golden Knight fan, so I decided to merge two of my passions. We just announced a partnership with the Vegas Golden Knights NHL team. The partnership consists of the naming rights to their new arena in Henderson, Nevada. Lifeguard Arena will be our next significant partnership. The Arena is on schedule to open later this year,” Odzer explained.

Why did you decide to create the Stephen Odzer Scholarship program?
“Education is one of the most essential aspects of growth, and I want to help ensure that students can achieve their academic goals and success by limiting the financial burden the system has placed on higher education. The Stephen Odzer Scholarship Program is a way for me to give back to the community. This year’s winners have been picked, but for future scholarship opportunities, students can visit https://www.stephenodzerscholarship.com/,” said Odzer.

When he’s not growing his business or helping the community, Steven Odzer enjoys spending his time running after his grandchildren or catching a Yankees game.

Steven Odzer

Steven Odzer’s Late Father, Yehoshua Ben Tzvi Hakohain Odzer Receives Award

On December 15, 2019, at the Ahavas Torah Center’s celebration of 8 Years of Torah and Community Growth Gala, they presented Seymour Odzer with a lifetime achievement award for his work in the Jewish community. Steven Odzer was honored to accept on behalf of his late father. It was a great moment for the entire family to have their beloved father and grandfather Seymour receive such an honor. Steven Odzer couldn’t hold his excitement as he stepped up to accept the award.

“I am honored to be able to accept this award for my father’s work,” Steven Odzer said proudly. The other members of the Odzer family clapped and cheered as Steven accepted the award. Steven continued, “I feel that this community represents the finest that people can achieve through hard work and dedication, and I’m proud to be a supporter of this great cause.”

The Ahavas Torah Center’s Jewish learning and community outreach programs do great things for the community. Those interested in supporting the Ahavas Torah Center can visit www.atcdinner.com to learn more and make a donation. These contributions are tax-free, and there are also opportunities to place an ad in the Ahavas Torah Center’s journal.

Steven Odzer will continue to honor the work his dad did for the Ahavas Tora Center. Since he has been spending more time in Henderson, NV, with his new business venture, Steven Odzer hopes to continue the great work of the Ahavas Tora Center in Nevada. 

“My father taught me to surround myself with important people. I get my inspiration from the business connections I make. Two of my partners are billionaires, and I stay involved with the Republic Jewish Coalition. I recently joined the Economic Club, where I have been able to meet some of the most successful business leaders in the world,” Steven Odzer says.

Steven Odzer’s father taught him the value of hard work. With over 30 years of experience in the distribution industry, Steven Odzer has made a name for himself in the field. Steven Odzer has led as CEO of many successful companies such as YBT Industries of Henderson, NV. Steven Odzer also dedicates a lot of time helping out the community. He supports causes such as both Jewish and non-Jewish causes, the AHRC, and Bris Avrohom.

During his free time, one can find Steven Odzer cheering on the New York Yankees or the Las Vegas Golden Knights.