Continuing a Legacy: Leslie Evans-Amstrong’s Journey with GVRA’s Business Enterprise Program

Leslie Evans-Armstrong is a proud participant in the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency’s (GVRA) Business Enterprise Program (BEP), where she operates a successful vending and micro market serving locations across metro Atlanta, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), Veterans Administration clinics, and Georgia Laboratories.

A Partnership Built on Love and Purpose

Leslie’s journey with BEP is rooted in love, purpose, and resilience. She first met her husband, Michael Armstrong, through a summer youth program in 1991. After reconnecting years later through social media, the two married in a backyard ceremony in 2020.

Both had been diagnosed with life-changing vision loss, which qualified them to participate in the BEP program. Managed by GVRA, the program provides training, resources, and opportunities for individuals who are legally blind to own and operate food service and vending businesses in federal and state facilities.

Two years prior to their marriage, Leslie joined Michael’s vending business, Armstrong Foods, assisting with everything from online ordering and inventory management to stocking machines and supporting day-to-day operations. What began as a loving and supportive partnership soon became a shared vision for the future.

Carrying Forward a Legacy

That vision took on even greater meaning following her husband’s passing in January 2025 after a stroke. Determined to honor the business they built together, Leslie chose to continue the work he had started through BEP.

“Before he passed, he had started the process of incorporating Armstrong Foods,” she shared. “I believe continuing this is what he wanted. It means everything to carry it on.”

Although stepping into full ownership during such a difficult time was challenging, Leslie found strength in the work itself.

“He passed on a Monday, and on Tuesday I had to go back out and do vending,” she said. “It was difficult emotionally, but having the work to return to probably saved me.”

The routine, responsibility, and sense of purpose helped provide stability and focus during an emotionally difficult time.

Growing up visually impaired, Leslie said she struggled with confidence and often doubted what she was capable of achieving.

“Before Michael sent me that Facebook message, I was just going about my life without much confidence,” she shared. “But Michael would always say to me, ‘You’re an Armstrong now.’” Those words became a source of strength that continue to guide her today.

“When I think about giving up, I think about Michael’s words. I can’t give up because I don’t want to disappoint him. He’s the only person who truly saw me and believed in me. That is what has kept me going. He gave me a sense of worth. On my difficult days, I remember his words: ‘You’re an Armstrong now.’”

Support Through GVRA’s BEP Program

Throughout the transition, BEP also became an important source of encouragement and support. The program enabled Leslie to continue operating established routes and maintain services at key locations, ensuring business continuity while she moved forward with confidence.

She also found meaningful support from BEP staff and fellow vendors, who offered guidance and encouragement along the way.

“They didn’t just support the business, they supported me,” she said.

Leslie successfully completed her BEP training in just three months through The Chicago Lighthouse and earned her ServSAFE certification on her first attempt. She received her vendor’s license in April 2026. Combined with years of hands-on experience working alongside her husband, the training helped prepare her to confidently lead and grow the business on her own.

Continuing to Grow

Today, Leslie manages the operation with a small team and continues building on the strong foundation she and her husband created together. In doing so, she also carries forward his legacy of leadership and service and stands as an example to their sons.

Michael, a well-known leader and advocate in his Stonecrest, GA, community, was the first African American Chairman of the Georgia Committee of Blind Vendors and was widely respected for treating others with dignity and fairness, she shared.

“He believed everyone deserved an opportunity,” Leslie said. “That’s something I carry with me every day.”

More Than a Business Opportunity

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Leslie and BEP Business Analyst, William Graham.

For Leslie, BEP represents far more than a business opportunity. It represents community, independence, and empowerment. Through training, mentorship, and support, the program helped her navigate both professional and personal challenges while continuing to provide for her family and pursue long-term success.

“Grief is an extension of my love for Michael,” Leslie shared. “But BEP, and people like William Graham (BEP Business Analyst) and Herman “Leon” Allen (Director of BEP), gave me the ability to keep going, to support my family, and to continue something my husband believed in. and I am grateful every day.”

To learn more about GVRA’s Business Enterprise Program, visit https://gvs.georgia.gov/sensory-services-1/business-enterprise-program.