Meet Lewis Barnes: Helping SBA Leaders Get Things Done in Washington

When a friend or family member asks what you do to help small businesses, what do you say?

I’m a General Equipment operator – a driver.   I transport various SBA officials to and from the Senate and House office Buildings and other places around the Washington DC area.  This is my small contribution to SBA.

What is your favorite thing about what the SBA does for small businesses?

My favorite thing about what SBA does for small businesses is seeing people getting an opportunity to live their dreams – investing in what they believe in.

Is there a particular “success story” that comes to mind when you think about how the SBA helps people?

Yes, there is a “success story” that comes to mind. There’s a car wash that I use to get the vehicles cleaned.  The owner told me if it wasn’t for SBA, he wouldn’t be there.  We saved his business and he’s very grateful to SBA.

Do you have any advice for entrepreneurs and small business owners out there?

Follow you dreams and keep believing, no matter the trials and tribulations you may encounter.

Anything else too add?

Yes, I would like to commend the Administrator, Karen Mills and Deputy Administrator, Marie Johns for their commitment and dedication to SBA and the inspiration that the both of them give me while working diligently on a daily basis.

Meet the SBA is a series of features of SBA employees – both in Washington, D.C., and around the U.S. – who work every day to help small businesses grow and create jobs.  Employees were nominated by their colleagues to be recognized during Public Service Recognition Week 2011.