CEO and Philanthropist Steven Odzer’s Top Tips On Giving Back During The Pandemic

Giving back is more important than ever, and it’s key to do so safely. Steven Odzer, CEO of YBT Industries and a well-known philanthropist, shares his tips for getting involved with helping others while staying safe. 

Steven Odzer recommends considering volunteering virtually, especially if you have tech skills. Many businesses need help with fielding email requests, organizing digital information, and updating websites, according to Steven Odzer. If you’re able to work on these tasks, you may be a valuable asset to your favorite charity. Reach out to ask them if your skills could be of use. 

You’ll be able to make a huge difference from the safety of your own home, according to Steven Odzer. 

If you have disposable income and want to help those in need, Steven Odzer recommends reaching out to local charities to feel a connection. Many charities are lacking their regular funding due to contributors reducing their spending. Steven Odzer says that now, more than ever, charities can benefit from even small, regular gifts. 

If you prefer to donate physical items, talk with the organization you’d like to support and ask about the types of donations that would make the most sense for them, according to Steven Odzer. For organizations that keep people and animals safe, their needs often change with the seasons. 

Steven Odzer also recommends reaching out to organizations that help people who are especially vulnerable to the virus. Working with Meals on Wheels or other organizations that provide help to people who need it can provide people who can’t leave home with both a smiling face (from a distance) and the food they need to stay healthy. 

In addition to volunteering and making donations, Steven Odzer recommends getting active in your community. Call neighbors and ask if there’s anything you can do to help, especially if you have people in your community who are elderly or struggle with health problems that harm their immune systems. Steven Odzer also recommends taking a look at message boards on social media and neighborhood websites to find out who in your area needs help. 

Steven Odzer also stresses the importance of following guidelines. When you do your part, be socially distant, wear a mask, and respect state guidelines, you’re setting the example for the rest of your neighborhood. You never know, doing your part in your community to model safe behavior could save a life.

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

A 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.

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.

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].

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.

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 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.

Opportunities 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.

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.

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 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

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.”