A Business Development Event was held Wednesday evening at the Beru Ballroom near the Lakewood–Toms River border, aimed at providing local residents with guidance on running businesses and managing rising living costs.

The event was organized by CARES, in partnership with the Lakewood Development Corporation (LDC) and Lakewood Community Services Corporation (LCSC).

Lakewood Mayor Ray Coles addressed attendees, sharing how he established his family and business in Lakewood in the 1980s after growing up in New York City. “I followed a similar path and understand the challenges of raising a family; building a business; and paying tuition,” Coles said. “Lakewood is our ‘home’ and we are part of the family that is Lakewood.”

Following his remarks, the mayor answered audience questions on issues including property taxes, traffic, and tuition relief.

The event was moderated by Rabbi Eliezer Grossman. Attendees also heard a presentation from Nadav (Nima) Baiati, Executive Director and General Manager of Commercial Cybersecurity at Lenovo, who shared insights from his corporate experience tailored to small business owners. A Q&A session followed his talk.

“We are fortunate to have the strong support of the Mayor and Township Committee, who enable us to provide our communities with events and programs to help them succeed economically and enjoy an enhanced quality of life in Lakewood,” said Rabbi Lipa Klein, Director of CARES.

“CARES and other local organizations are an invaluable asset that helps government reach and assist Lakewood residents at the grassroots, in their homes, stores and offices,” added Township Committeeman Meir Lichtenstein. “We look forward to continue providing local breadwinners and entrepreneurs with the guidance and resources they need to succeed in a fast paced, complex economy.”