2 minute read
Mark Rhodes: The Entrepreneur
BY HANNAH BEARD | COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MANAGER
Deeply rooted in the York community, Mark Rhodes has decades of entrepreneurship, servant leadership, and philanthropy under his belt. "York is my home, I love it. We have a lot to be proud of," says Mark.
Though humble, Mark also has a lot to be proud of. For 22 years through his own business, Key Learning Consultants, LLC, Mark conducted diversity training, consulting, conflict resolution, and mediation services for businesses, organizations, universities, and boards. Small businesses are Mark’s proclaimed passion, with a focus on minority-owned businesses, and he assists them in getting started and ensuring they have an opportunity at sustainable success.
Mark’s decorated career includes motivational speaking and coaching, which are palpable in the advice he offers to aspiring entrepreneurs. “Start where you are and don’t let anyone turn you around,” and “Don’t chase the money, chase the passion.” And takes his own advice.
He has started businesses in his backyard and basement. Currently, Mark’s hobby of winemaking has grown to be a bustling business inside Penn Market, a place he feels is a great incubator for small businesses. Mark and Val Wines, the only Black Winery in Pennsylvania, displays the dedication Mark has to providing his customers with quality wine.
Mark feels that awards and accolades, all effects his career is no stranger to, comes secondary to living your passion and finding your priority as a business owner. “I love my city and I want things to work out.” Mark has walked the walk and continues to invest in the betterment of York’s entrepreneurial community.
