It takes faith to start a business in these trying economic times, if you ask Dr. Susanne Bates of Abundant Life Chiropractic in Perry Hall.

The ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday morning for her new chiropractor's office included a prayer from Pastor Greg Gill of Grace Community Church. He requested that Bates would be able to "help many people."

"I had no idea back in 2006 that I would be a chiropractor, but the Lord brought me here," she said, following the ceremony.

After nearly 16 years of working as a park ranger at the Gunpowder Falls State Park, Bates moved to Missouri to earn a chiropractic degree‎. She then practiced in Indiana for about two years, before returning to Maryland in 2011.

Bates, a Cecil County native and Nottingham resident, opened her new Perry Hall office at 9660 Belair Rd. on Nov. 2.

She said she was aware of the risks of opening a business during an economic downturn, but didn't feel intimidated.

"Back in 1929, at the start of the Great Depression, there were businesses started that are still part of our lives today," she said. "It's going to take time and perseverance, but with time, word will get out."

Community service is a major component of her practice, Bates said.

She has donated proceeds from first-time exams to cancer research and sponsored other donations to the Maryland Food Bank. She also plans to sponsor a community blood drive at the office and has become an active member of the Perry Hall/White Marsh Business Association.

"She's just jumped right in and made her face and business known," said Lynn Richardson, president of the business association. "She's a great example of how to be a business in this community."

During the ribbon cutting, County Councilman David Marks awarded Bates a citation for her efforts toward contributing to the "economic vitality of Baltimore County."

Bates said she already feels the support of the local community at her new office.

"When people get the treatment they need here, they're going to be pleased," she said.

If you could start a new business in Perry Hall, what would it be and where would it be located? Tell us in the comments.