Coffee Hour with BEAT

Approximately 15 years ago I was making a presentation before a local school board. Everyone likes receiving compliments, but that particular evening I was humbled when the Board told me that Avalon Park Group was one of the most generous companies that board had ever met.

How do you respond to such a comment? Giving back is just part of my “rule book.” While it may seem generous, it is my philosophy that giving back to the community at large is not only an obligation, but also a great investment, if you are willing to think longterm.

Several years ago, Avalon Park Group donated the school site for the New River Elementary school and built recreational fields on our undeveloped property. A high-ranking public-school official asked me, “How can you afford to do all those donations, Avalon Park has barely started, and with just few homes cannot possibly be making you money.” He answered himself, “I think your donations are well chosen investments into the community.” And I wholeheartedly agree.

Avalon Park is not the outstanding community we have today because it was created by taking. Quite the contrary, it was by giving, by many and every single day.

I am thankful and glad that Avalon Park started with giving. It was the strong foundation for a great community. Without those gifts we would not have what we have today, a wonderful town, where people can live, learn, work, and play. A town where people can find a strong sense of belonging and safety. Hence giving back starts early and should never end. I am thankful and glad that Avalon Park Wesley Chapel started with giving. It was the strong foundation for a great community. Without those gifts we would not have what we have today, a wonderful town, where people can live, learn, work, and play. A town where people can find a strong sense of belonging and safety. Hence giving back starts early and should never end. We have been blessed to truly start community partnerships with the local library and non-profits like the Stano Foundation and the Pasco Fine Arts Council. From supporting youth sports, local art and culture and community events, we are looking forward to continuing to give back in this community! Sometimes people believe giving is just money. I strongly disagree, there are so many ways of giving back, as in time and talents. I am thankful that the Avalon Park community is among the best I have experienced when it comes to giving time as volunteers in schools, with local seniors and with community service clubs. I admire anybody spending time to give back, sometimes it is easy just to send a check, and much harder to invest time and passion when giving back. So, in the spirit of the season, as I look to new and familiar ways to give back, I encourage you to do the same!

Happy Thanksgiving!!