C12 CHRISTIAN GROUP
Group seeks to unite realms of faith, business

KATHARINE DALE
kdale@charlotteobserver.com

Tony Tennaro says the corporate world can be a lonely place for Christian business owners. And on Tuesday morning at Providence Country Club, dozens of CEOs and owners agreed.

The event was hosted by C12 Group, which focuses on management ethics and business as ministry. Following a brief introduction of C12, members shared testimonies about God's work in their lives and their businesses -- and how the group has contributed to their professional and spiritual growth.

"You wear many hats, have lean staffs and it is the business owner's name and assets on the line daily," said Tennaro, C12 area chair. "I believe for those who are working to lead their business and see (the businesses) as an extension of their foundation of faith, it is even a little lonelier yet."

C12 Group Greater Charlotte Region launched in 2004 with five members. Today, it has nearly 50. The reason C12 has resonated, Tennaro said: "It gives you an objective, knowledgeable advice and counsel ... from people who have similar core values but yet have no monetary interest or agenda for your decisions."

Markey Austin, president of Community Marketing Services, said the most valuable take-away from her C12 membership is knowing she's not alone in striving to run her business according to Christian principles. "Where else can you go to receive advice and counsel from a variety of seasoned CEOs and presidents and then be held accountable for what you learn?" she said.