As the chief executive officer and president of Online Image, Russell Burnett has created a leading provider of search engine optimization (SEO) services with a dedicated team of long-term employees. As Online Image has grown, Russell Burnett has shared the company’s success through contributions to a number of charitable and community organizations, including local schools, law enforcement organizations, and Defy Ventures.
Established in 2010, Defy Ventures inspires individuals with criminal histories to redirect their talents toward the creation of entrepreneurial businesses. The organization relies on successful executives and investors to coach its entrepreneurs-in-training (EITs). Defy mentors work one-on-one with EITs, providing strategic direction, teaching them to pitch their ideas, and helping them develop business plans. Mentors commit their time for at least four months, attending a 90-minute mentoring session once a month, and setting up at least one other meeting with their mentees each month.
Defy Ventures also welcomes volunteer services from graphic designers and website developers, who can help EITs set up their websites and brand their businesses. Accountants, lawyers, and bookkeepers are also encouraged to contribute their professional services. Additionally, Defy Ventures accepts monetary donations. Just $50 per month will fund one EIT’s access to online courses, while $500 per month will sponsor an EIT throughout his or her entire experience.
