Guilford Small Business Spotlight: Handle Associates Learning Center

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this exciting series we’ve kicked off at Patch — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

• Business: Handle Associates Learning Center
• Owners: Laura I. Maniglia
• Website: www.handleassociates.com
• Address: 135 Church Street, Guilford
  
  

How did you come up with the name?

Handle is the English translation of my last name. Maniglia is Italian for handle.

Why start a business in this town?

I lived in Guilford when I established this educational center in August 1995. As a professional educator and administrator, I understood the need for individualized learning. We customize a program for each student; we work with students of all abilities, from learning disabled to gifted. We now serve students from at least 10 towns in Connecticut.

Briefly, what business are you in?

This is a private, independently owned education center that serves learners of all abilities. We offer 5 different programs, all of which are customized: test preparation, math, reading, writing, and study skills. We also provide training in essential cognitive skills to enhance the learning process. In addition, Handle Associates utilizes technology to offer distance learning for students who cannot attend the center.

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

One challenge is to raise awareness of the importance of education, so our students are globally competitive. What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?I’ve 20 years full of proud moments. I developed the cornerstone Writing Program in 1995. Since then, Handle Associates has grown beyond my initial expectations. I am most fortunate to be able to help students learn how to learn and achieve success in their academic objectives. I have the distinct honor of working with some families for many years, so I’ve been able to witness the growth and development these students from elementary level children to young adults attending college.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

I offer free presentations on educational topics at libraries and schools in Guilford and along the Shoreline. I also volunteer each year in an inner city school in New Haven, preparing eighth graders for high school entrance exams.

Would you like to see your small business showcased in this series? Email wendy.mitchell@ patch.com.