Information provided by GLOBE NEWSWIRE

Four ServiceMaster brands have joined forces with a new online fundraising program called Boost A Hero in an effort to help military veterans purchase franchise businesses. Boost A Hero, available at www.sprigster.com, provides a platform where vets utilize "crowdfunding" to raise the capital they need to purchase franchises like ServiceMaster Clean, Merry Maids, Furniture Medic and AmeriSpec -- which are all ServiceMaster brands.

The four ServiceMaster brands are charter members of the Boost A Hero program, which was recently initiated by Sprigster in partnership with the International Franchise Association (IFA).

"The unemployment rate for military veterans is 50 percent higher than the national average, despite the fact that vets make outstanding team members and business owners," said Beth Solomon, IFA Vice President of Strategic Initiatives & Industry Relations.

The Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library will host three small business classes that include information on everything from steps to starting and maintaining a business, to the legal aspects of owning and operating a small business.

How to Start and Finance a Small Business

This program will cover the finer points of starting a business, including writing a business plan and obtaining financing.

Presenter: Sandra Jackson, Senior Area Manager, Tennessee District Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration.

When: Thursday March 8, 2012

Time: 6:00pm

Where: Benjamin L.