Talon Company - Specialists in Retail Thrift Management

Rus has more than 30 years as the senior executive in various public and nonprofit organizations. His work as the youngest county administrator in the history of the Illinois Dept of Public Aid soon earned him new responsibilities as chief of one of its statewide bureaus. For the past twenty years, Rus served as CEO of two nonprofit organizations, during which time he started several retail thrifts and consulted with more than a hundred executives on numerous issues from creating an organization, to complex growth strategies. His substantial creativity and relentless pursuit of the exceptional helped him develop an expertise in using retail thrift to increase nonprofit funding. Rus has been a candidate for the Illinois state senate, has an MPA from Northern Illinois University (NIU), and worked on his Ph.D. at NIU and the University of Florida .

Eileen has spent much of her professional career working with nonprofits – both as staff and consultant. Her credits include creating development programs in medium–sized organizations, providing technical assistance to local CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) in Illinois and Colorado , planning conferences, multiple successful grant applications, and staff and board training. She has led communities in starting nonprofit agencies, directed program and agency mergers, and has been instrumental in rebuilding agencies on the verge of collapse. Eileen is an adjunct professor of sociology, leadership, and management at Illinois Central College , holds a masters degree from Loyola University–Chicago, and resides in Peoria , Illinois with her husband and two young daughters in their historic arts and crafts home.

"Rus' breadth of knowledge in retail thrift was truly exceptional. Finding Talon Company, then bringing its services to Abbott's Thrift was a great decision that will justify the cost many times over. It is obvious this company knows and loves retail thrift. Recommending to others is easy."

Jim Buchfeurer, Manager
The Abbott's Thrift Shop
Felton, CA

"We recently doubled our retail space and needed to make big decisions – quickly. Talon Company made the process much easier and enjoyable. They know their stuff, but are big into common–sense insights and solutions. I would recommend this company to anyone!"

Linda Mayo, Manager
Holy Redeemer Thrift Shop
Hatboro, PA

"Rus really challenges my thinking and is always willing to invest his time to offer suggestions on how I can benefit my program. His experience is invaluable!"

Larry Irion, M.S., M.Ed.
Founder and Executive Director
Marriage Insight

"Rus's counsel has been invaluable to the success of Spread Truth Ministries. His revealing insights come from obvious academic preparation and years of executive experience. We also, recently, used the services of senior consultant, Eileen Setti to help us develop a Strategic Plan. Her knowledge and deep understanding of the process guided us to a great plan with relatively little effort. She was insightful, direct (but gracious), motivating, and thorough. We are altogether well–satisfied."

Jerry McCorkle
Executive Director
Spread Truth Ministries

"What a wonderful program (Social Enterprise 101) to have to offer to the nonprofit organizations that are members of our Chamber of Commerce. This was a rare opportunity for us to assist these members in offering them a new alternative to their funding issues. I would recommend all Chambers provide this training in their community."

Kathy Woodworth
Chamber Administrator
Sullivan Chamber & Economic Development