Photos Provided
Janesa Maulden and Olivia Kalkman
By Cynthia Mudge
For the C-C Chamber of Commerce
The Business Resource Center was established in July 1995 and became a member of the Centralia-Chehalis Chamber of Commerce in 2005. Founded by CPA Carol Bezy, the firm has grown into a trusted local resource for accounting and business advisory services. Today, Business Resource Center is led by partners Olivia Kalkman and Janesa Maulden, both of whom serve as managers.
Janesa Maulden brings more than 30 years of experience in bookkeeping and accounting services, while Olivia Kalkman holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Science from Centralia College. The firm’s office is conveniently located on Jackson Highway, near the turn-off for the Port of Chehalis.
Business Resource Center specializes in serving small businesses and non-profit organizations. Their diverse client base ranges from traditional mom-and-pop operations to logging and construction companies, dog groomers, auto repair shops, and new entrepreneurs just getting started.
When asked what advice they most often give small business owners—especially those launching a new venture—Kalkman and Maulden are in agreement: Start by consulting with an accountant and an attorney. While some new business owners hesitate to invest in professional services early on, both emphasize that the long-term savings in money, time, and stress far outweigh the initial costs.
“We also encourage new business owners to set up separate financial accounts for their business,” said Maulden.
Kalkman added, “The IRS does not like personal and business funds to be mixed.”
Another key recommendation is investing in accounting software. While Business Resource Center frequently works with QuickBooks, they are open to a variety of programs. “The important thing is having an accounting system in place,” said Maulden. “Even established businesses that rely on spreadsheets will find accounting software valuable.” These systems provide historical data, help track income and expenses, and generate reports that allow business owners to make informed and accurate financial projections.
Like most accounting firms, Business Resource Center assists clients with understanding and adapting to new tax laws, as well as navigating changes in federal, state, and local tax requirements.
More than 25 years ago, Carol Bezy made the decision to leave a successful career in banking after recognizing an unmet need in her community. As President and CEO of a local bank, she saw firsthand how many businesses could benefit from broader fiscal advisory services—services she was unable to fully provide within the banking system. That realization led her to found Business Resource Center, with a mission to support small- to medium-sized businesses and non-profits in achieving long-term financial success.
A hallmark of Bezy’s leadership has been her commitment to staying current with changing laws and evolving technology, then sharing that knowledge with both clients and her team. Over the years, Business Resource Center has continued to evolve, offering high-quality accounting, tax, and business services to the local community.
Bezy was also a dedicated supporter of the Chamber, serving as President, Treasurer, and board member throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.
If asked, Bezy would be the first to credit her success to her dedicated team, the support of the community, and the many clients who have trusted Business Resource Center with their financial well-being.
With more than 30 years of combined accounting and consulting experience, Business Resource Center remains committed to serving local businesses for years to come—helping clients move forward with confidence, clarity, and trusted guidance.
