WM’s Post

In times of crisis, true leadership shines through. When Hurricane Helene hit Asheville, the community was left devastated.  But in the face of such adversity, Harmony Senior Services owner James R. Smith and his team responded with incredible generosity and compassion. Smith personally donated $100,000 to five local organizations working tirelessly on storm relief and long-term recovery efforts.  This donation will help provide immediate support and resources to those who need it most.  In addition to the financial contribution, Harmony also donated over $50,000 worth of household items, including furniture, to help residents rebuild their homes. What makes this act even more powerful is that it reflects the company’s core belief: "Family Serving Families."  This dedication to both immediate relief and long-term recovery is a testament to the values that guide Harmony Senior Services, proving that leadership isn’t just about managing operations—it’s about serving the community with heart and purpose. In the toughest times, the true measure of leadership is how we show up. Do you have any similar stories to share?

This past week, I went through hurricane Milton. As Devin said, thank you to everyone who has helped! We had power back quickly, and were in turn able to help many people with various needs. There was tons of work to do; trees to trim, leaves to sweep, branches to drag to curbs. All the physical work confirmed my path with PwC. 😅 While I loved being able to help people at the individual level, that physical work is NO JOKE! So, tying this in to my professionalism - what can you do to help me succeed? I need you to spread the word - PwC does SMB bookkeeping! What does that mean? PwC’s Bookkeeping Connect, my current team, has a mission to help small & medium-sized businesses so they can have an impact on their people, their community, and, eventually, the world. All I ask is you spread the word to the world, because if I get enough ripples we can make a wave. 🌊

Giving Tuesday is when we make donations on behalf of the company partners The Lattice Group worked with this past year. Working with companies coast to coast has us making donations to Feeding Tampa, Hurricane Relief Funds in Maryland, some Chicago classics like Paws and Lift, and larger organizations like Heifer International. And while I don't think companies should partner with TLG because of this (they should because we fill roles well and fast), I do hope it aligns with our company partner values and encourages them to find ways to give back in their own way. Are you part of the lattice? #givingtuesday #leadershiprecruitment #leadershiphiring

Well done

Six Questions to Ask Before Giving to #HurricaneHelene Relief. Plus, a list of BBB Accredited Charities that are currently engaged in activities to assist Hurricane Helene relief efforts. Read here and check back as our list expands, https://ow.ly/kWuA50Twvvu

📢 How do you balance business, family, and leading recovery efforts after a natural disaster? Meet Rachel Miller—UWABC Community School Coordinator, small business owner, and mother—who is doing just that. After Hurricane Helene hit WNC, Rachel helped manage the 6 Commerce Way warehouse, ensuring her community had access to essential supplies. But recovery is more than distributing donations—it’s about long-term solutions, mental health support, and community resilience. 💬 "What we need now is the comfort of knowing there are people who will hold our hand—not just in the immediate crisis, but in the months and years ahead." Learn more about Rachel’s journey, the importance of sustainable recovery, and how UWABC supports coordinators on the front lines. 🌱 Read the full story here 👉

The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina is immense. With many people stuck in place due to destruction and without water or electricity, our neighbors across the Carolinas require aid. For those seeking ways to help, we'd like to highlight and vouch for two local organizations accepting donations to support those in great need. The first is a sightseeing helicopter tour owned by a couple running supply drops from the downtown Greenville airport to the Western NC area. They are currently collecting supplies from Runway Café and donations at https://hubs.li/Q02RS0LN0 If you're local and can bring supplies, the following items are in high demand. • Batteries • Flashlights • Chainsaws • Bottled Water • Pre-mixed baby formula This second is another GoFundMe page from a couple with a bakery in the Black Mountains, raising funds to provide temporary income to the communities stuck in place and resources to support local projects in supplying basic resources. https://hubs.li/Q02RRtmg0 Please consider supporting the people still harm's way as a result of Helene, and keep them in your hearts.

Rheem Manufacturing and Plumbing Express Inc. are partnering to help those affected by the devastating storms this fall. The companies joined forces to donate water heaters to families across Sarasota. This partnership, along with a local Christmas toy drive, is part of a broader hurricane relief initiative aimed at supporting local families impacted by recent storms. Rheem’s donation effort provided new water heaters, along with free product installation and removal services by the team at Plumbing Express, to families nominated by local charities and churches. Read more details here: https://lnkd.in/e--aFD_r

As the storm continues to unfold, we want to extend our heartfelt support to those affected. For those who may not know, our sister company, Finish Line Staffing Services, is located in Florida, and we're keeping them and all those in the path of the hurricane in our thoughts. Here are some important resources to help during this challenging time: ✅ FEMA Assistance – Apply for disaster assistance and get preparedness information from FEMA. ✅ Shelters & Evacuation Routes – Stay updated with shelter locations and evacuation routes at FloridaDisaster.org or call 800-729-3413 for help with evacuation. ✅ Charitable Donations – Consider donating to trusted organizations supporting hurricane relief efforts. Visit Charity Navigator for a list of highly-rated charities making a difference. ✅ 211 Hotline – For local services including food, water, and shelter, dial 211 or visit FL211.org. Our hearts go out to everyone affected, and we’re here to support our community in any way we can. Stay safe! 💙