Passions into a reality: small local business created after one simple idea

CHILLICOTHE - Described as an "idea man," a Chillicothe resident is breaking the mold and converting one concept into a reality.

At 28, Chillicothe native Anthony Collins has taken the first steps at starting his own business AC Vending. Collins, who lives with a disability, hopes to inspire others in the community to take a risk and pursue their passions.

"The thing of it is, people don't know how much potential they have," said Collins. "Positive people in my life have brought positive things."

One month ago, Collins approached his provider, Brandie Barr with an idea. He realized that there is a lack of vending companies located inside Chillicothe and neighboring counties. 

Barr says that he is always thinking of new ideas for companies based on his interests. In the past, Collins wanted to build bicycles but realized he could combine his love of travel and technical skills with vending products.

When preparing to start his business, Collins began by researching on YouTube. He also looked into how much he would spend purchasing snack products and how much he could earn from the machines. Collins realized that if he purchased a box of 850 gumballs for $20, and sells the gumballs for 25 cents, his return would be just over $212.

A smaller, three-sectioned candy dispenser can be purchased used for around $189, according to Andrew. Larger machines used for soda or snacks can be found for as little as $200.

The first vending machines Collins purchased were set up in the West Main Street location of the Pioneer Center. Several offerings of candy are available to those waiting in the lobby. Periodically, Collins stops into the location to refill the machines and collect money. He says the most popular candy among his customers is Skittles.

Because he's noticed a lack of vending devices around town, Collins is looking to expand his business into barbershops, salons and retail stores. Just recently, he and Barr traveled two hours to purchase a larger vending machine for snacks. He's also invested in a soda machine.

If a business is willing to let Collins keep a machine in their space, he offers around 25% of the earnings. There is no upfront cost to shop owners.

Collins has always wanted to open his own business because he says all his life, people told him he couldn't. But when he started to receive services at the Pioneer Center he was exposed to people who encouraged and supported him.

At the center, Collins receives a variety of services that assist him with a variety of tasks or teach him new skills. He's able to meet and connect with others in group sessions and communicate with people who treat him as a real person.

Collins wanted to prove to other people living with disabilities that they aren't limited because of them. He hoped to become an example of what it is to break the mold.

"I wanted to prove to people you can do it," said Collins. "And I wanted to do it, not only for myself but for others - to inspire them to follow in my footsteps."

The start-up and success of AC Vending was a result of Collins take a risk and following through on a dream. It also represents the fact that people living with disabilities are no different and can do the same as non-disabled people.

Eventually, Collins wants to move towards larger, more advanced devices like claw machines and other arcade games and maybe, someday, open his own store for community members to go to for amusement.

"I always thought it would be a fun thing for Chillicothe to have an arcade for kids or for people with disabilities," Collins said. "We get so wrapped up in adulthood we forget to be a kid."

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tbarnhart@gannett.com

Twitter: @ToriaBarnhart