What Changed Troubled Teen Into Million Dollar Business Owner

Sometimes kids don't need a second chance, they just need A chance. Howard Potter, the owner of A & P Master Images, needed that chance when he was young. He credits The House of the Good Shepherd for providing the opportunity to turn his life around, now he's making sure other kids get the same chance.

When Potter was a teen he wandered aimlessly through life, until coming into contact with The House of the Good Shepherd. He got the structure he needed to be successful, from learning the value of a job well done and the rewards that come with it, to the consequences of not following the rules. He also learned how to manage and save money and live independently.

It was through one of those part-time jobs at Pin-O-Rama Lanes that he would eventually meet his wife, Amanda. Over the course of time, they married, had some children and launched A & P Master Images from their home. As their hard work turned into a multi-million dollar business, they wanted to make sure other kids could get the same opportunity. And thus was born the Kids Future Bowl-A-Thon.

99% of the money raised through the Bowl-A-Thon goes straight to the kids at the House of the Good Shepherd. Potter says that's thanks to Pin-O-Rama Lanes giving them discounted rates and his company covering the cost of all tote bags, t-shirts, and flyers for the event. Through the generosity of sponsors, the bowlers who participate in the event and the businesses who donate raffle prizes, they've raised $50,000.

The Bowl-A-Thon is April 13 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Pin-O-Rama. In addition to bowling; there's a DJ, photo booth, caricature drawings and speed painter Robert Channing will be donating a painting. To be a sponsor or donate raffle items, email: hpotter@masteryourimage.com or call 315-793-1934. To bowl in the event or get more information, download the registration form at the Bowl-A-Thon's Facebook page.