Congratulations to the Tampa Team – Recipient of the California Closets 2024 Social Purpose Award

Submitted by Lisa Harkins, Sr. Director, Internal Communications

Embracing Belonging: How Our Tampa Team Serves Their Community

Team members at our Tampa franchise have continued to live our Credo and fully demonstrate our values and Brand Vision, to be the Brand of Belonging. The number of involved team members, the choice of agencies and the long-lasting relationships foster a sense of belonging that not only supports our brand vision but also make a genuine impact within their community. In other words, they walk the talk.

From Tampa:

On an ongoing basis, members of the Tampa team actively reach out to support local organizations, engaging in volunteerism and donations that enhance the lives of those in need. This happens even during difficult times – when our own team members are impacted by the same hurricane conditions that they are actively volunteering for in the community. While the projects in 2024 were many, we want to highlight three specific efforts:

One of our standout initiatives was the ongoing partnership with Dress for Success. Our team rallied together to host a clothing drive, providing essential items to young business professionals entering the workforce. Beyond collecting donations, we took the initiative to redesign and organize the local Dress for Success boutique, creating a welcoming and empowering environment for clients. Our ongoing involvement includes participation in annual events like the Summer Soiree fashion show and open house, further strengthening our support for this vital organization.

In addition, we recognized the importance of accessibility and “a place for everything” organization at Homeless Empowerment (HEP). Our team dedicated time and resources to transform their medicine room, improving the space’s flow and ensuring that residents can easily and safely access their medications. This enhancement directly supports their journey toward independence, reinforcing our belief in serving those in need.

Our team also demonstrated extraordinary resilience during the Hurricane Helene Drive. Despite being affected themselves, our members united to host a collection point in our showroom, partnering with LoveTampa to gather over 40 bags of essential items, including clothing and household supplies. This effort exemplified our commitment to community support in times of urgency.

Through these impactful projects, Kenny Cleary, Alyssa Hannah and their numerous team members have truly embraced our company’s commitment to belonging.

By actively serving their community and involving most team members in these meaningful initiatives, the team not only uplifts those around them but also reflects the core values of our brand. Together, they are building a stronger, more inclusive community for all.

Dress for Success Tampa Bay

The mission of Dress for Success is to help unemployed and underemployed women achieve economic independence by providing no-fee programs.

Dress for Success empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help them thrive in work and in life.

Homeless Empowerment Program – Supporting Veterans, Children, Families & Individuals

HEP is the only social-services agency of its kind in Florida, offering shelter care and supportive services for the entire homeless population.

The Tampa team transformed their medicine room into an organized and effective space.

HEP offer housing and programs specifically designed for single men and women, families with children and US Veterans, including those with mental illness, physical disability and non-violent criminal history.

LoveTampa – Hurricane Relief

Despite many team members being impacted by Category 4 Hurricane Helene on September 26, the team transitioned their showroom into a collection point for essential items.