About Pop's Vending
Juan "Papo" Pollo

Juan "Papo" Pollo is in the final stages of developing his own business, "Pop's Vending." Pop's Vending" consists of a route of 10 live bait vending machines. This is a pretty unique business in more ways than one. This business is being developed with the assistance of the State of Florida Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and with the support of the State of Florida Developmental Services Medicaid Waiver Program.

It has not been easy for Papo and for his family to accomplish Papo's dream. As a matter of fact, it has been so difficult that Papo, with the assistance of his mother, Lilly Rangel-Diaz, has developed a power point presentation in which he outlines in detail the steps that he, with the assistance of his natural and paid supports, has taken to develop his own business.

In his interesting presentation, Papo shares his dreams, his frustrations, and how he overcame them. He also provides concrete steps for those who may be interested in pursuing the development of a business with the assistance of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Papo lives in Miami, Florida with his family. He is the oldest of six boys. Papo has a very supportive family and he has taught his mother how to be an advocate for those with disabilities. Papo went to public school in Miami-Dade County. His mother refused to allow the school system to segregate him. Papo spent the majority of his school years fully included in general education classes. In 1998, at the age of 19, he graduated from his neighborhood high school, South Miami Senior High.

Papo is a young leader and has participated in several national leadership activities. In June, 1998, he was selected as a Youth Advisory Committee Member of the National Council on Disability and was invited by then President Bill Clinton to meet with him in a special visit and tour of the White House. Papo has spoken at several conferences and was invited to meet with Florida Governor Jeb Bush to share his experiences in the development of his own business. He is a Resource Consultant for the National Youth Leadership Network.

He spends his free time fishing and likes to spend his money on fishing equipment. Papo also enjoys playing drums. Papo is active in a Catholic Church group that ministers to other young men and women so that they too can find Jesus in their lives. Papo's dream is to become financially independent and to buy his own house and his own boat.

Updated 4/10/04