Matthew Moss and Gavin Horne discuss how the Academy of Finance at Dunwoody High School, under Steve Fortenberry’s mentorship, set them on the path to entrepreneurial success. Their business, Student Task Force, offers services like pressure washing, junk removal, moving, landscaping, cleaning, organizing, and dog walking. If you could use any of these services, reach out to them at 844-440-3156. They’re committed to supporting the local Dunwoody community while providing real work opportunities for younger students.
Welcome back to another episode of What’s Up Dunwoody, brought to you by Dr. Bret Freedman and Village Orthodontics. In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with two outstanding Dunwoody High School alumni, Matthew Moss and Gavin Horne. These two young entrepreneurs have launched an innovative business, and they’re already making waves in the Dunwoody community. From their roots in Dunwoody to the business they’re building, their story is one of determination, mentorship, and a love for their hometown. Whether you’re moving to Dunwoody or living in Dunwoody, you’ll find inspiration in their journey and the exciting future they’re creating.
Dunwoody High School: The Start of an Entrepreneurial Journey
Matthew and Gavin’s story begins in the heart of Dunwoody at Dunwoody High School. Both of them were part of the Academy of Finance, a program that has been crucial in shaping their entrepreneurial minds. The program, led by the incredible Steve Fortenberry, gave them the skills and mentorship they needed to set off on their business journey. Matthew Moss recalls the structured approach of the Academy of Finance, where students are taught the fundamentals of business ethics, management, marketing, and accounting. As seniors, they even set up their own companies as part of the curriculum, giving them hands-on experience in real-world business operations. For anyone moving to Dunwoody, getting involved with programs like this at Dunwoody High School is an excellent way for students to start their entrepreneurial careers. Both Matthew and Gavin emphasize how much they owe their success to Mr. Fortenberry’s mentorship, describing him not just as a teacher, but as a life mentor. His guidance has been a constant source of inspiration, even after they graduated and began building their business. This mentorship is a cornerstone of what makes Dunwoody such a nurturing place for young talent and ambition.
The Birth of Student Task Force: Bridging the Gap Between Students and the Community
After high school, Matthew and Gavin came up with a simple but brilliant idea: a business that could help both the Dunwoody community and local high school students. Thus, Student Task Force was born. The business offers services such as moving, junk removal, landscaping, and even dog walking. Their goal is twofold: provide Dunwoody residents with affordable, reliable services while giving high school students work opportunities that will teach them valuable life skills. What sets Student Task Force apart from other businesses in the area is their focus on flexibility and mentorship. They offer hourly pricing, which makes services like moving a couch or landscaping much more affordable than hiring large, traditional moving companies. It’s a great option for Dunwoody homeowners who need small tasks done but don’t want to break the bank. For students, it’s a chance to get real work experience and earn money while still in high school. Matthew and Gavin are committed to guiding these young workers, teaching them how to handle management tasks, payroll, and customer service. It’s a win-win for the community and for the next generation of Dunwoody entrepreneurs.
The Importance of Word-of-Mouth and Local Connections in Dunwoody
Like many small businesses in Dunwoody, Student Task Force thrives on word-of-mouth referrals. Matthew and Gavin have found that personal connections and local reputation are incredibly powerful in Dunwoody. They’re committed to building relationships with local business owners and homeowners, ensuring that every job they take on is done with the utmost professionalism and care. This focus on local connections and customer satisfaction is why they are so successful in Dunwoody. As Gavin puts it, “Dunwoody is such a tight-knit community, and that’s what we love about it. It’s our hometown, and we want to serve it with the best service possible.”
Giving Back to the Dunwoody Community: A Local Business with a Big Heart
The passion that Matthew and Gavin have for helping their community is evident in every part of their business. Whether they’re moving furniture for an elderly neighbor or assisting with landscaping, they always have the community’s best interests at heart. They even go the extra mile to help local schools by offering services to students looking for work and experience. Matthew and Gavin are also excited about the future. They’re planning to expand their services, including offering tutoring and other educational opportunities for Dunwoody students. Their commitment to their community and their belief in the power of local businesses is a great example of what makes Dunwoody such a vibrant place to live and work.
Favorite Spots in Dunwoody: Local Insights and Recommendations
Of course, no conversation about Dunwoody would be complete without mentioning some of their favorite local spots. When asked about their favorite places in Dunwoody, Matthew and Gavin both highlight Carbonara Village, a beloved local restaurant known for its delicious Italian cuisine. They’ve spent countless hours at Dunwoody Village, hanging out with friends and soaking in the charm of the area. As Matthew Moss fondly recalls, “We used to hang out there every Friday and Saturday night. Dunwoody Village was the place to be.” Whether you’re enjoying a meal at Carbonara or strolling through the Village, Dunwoody’s local spots provide a sense of community that’s hard to beat.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Student Task Force and Dunwoody’s Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
Looking ahead, Matthew and Gavin are excited about the future of their business and their role in Dunwoody. They’re committed to providing opportunities for young people in the area and helping the community thrive. With their entrepreneurial spirit and strong roots in Dunwoody, there’s no doubt they’ll continue to make a positive impact for years to come. For anyone moving to Dunwoody or already living here, it’s clear that businesses like Student Task Force are not only providing essential services but also helping to foster the next generation of entrepreneurs. It’s an exciting time to be in Dunwoody, and Matthew and Gavin are proud to be part of the community’s growth and success.
