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Now, she's trying to turn that dream into a reality with an IFundWomen crowdsourcing effort which concentrates on women-led business.
As the owner of Chocolations in Mamaroneck, she has long dealt with the community, and in fact, for the past 10 years -- as long as she's had her brick and mortar location -- has sponsored a local soccer team.
""It's always bothered me that the parents have a local place to get their treats but instead you'll see hundreds of them holding a cold cup of coffee from a national chain -- who does not support the local teams!" she said.
"Which is why I need funding help to get this show on the road. I want to extend that community spirit to the fields. And, of course, offer my artisan chocolate.."
Her vision is to have a gourmet, visually pleasing, eco-friendly vehicle carrying hot coffee, hot chocolate, and snacks directly to to fields where the moms and dads are.
Chocolations has long been a "dream big" project for Valente, a mom of two. Chocolate was her hobby and when her kids were young, she slowly, built a business from home. Thinking she should take a more conventional route to career success, however, she attended and graduated from law school.
She remembers running from class to get her kids after school, then rushing to a soccer practice, where later, she'd sit on the sidelines wishing for some form of nourishment.
Valente is now asking the public for donations in any amount. Her IFundWomen website has cute names like "Brownie" level, ""Truffle" level, "White Chocolate Bark" level and "Hot Chocolate." So far, she's raised $813.00 and has a goal of $75,000.00.
Fundraising continues through Feb. 14, 2017.
Go HERE for more details or go to Chocolations Facebook page HERE.
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