Giving back has always been a core part of my life and my work. As the President of Airheads HVAC and CEO of AH Financial, I have seen firsthand how community involvement can make a powerful difference not only for local families, but also for the businesses that serve them. For me, supporting charities, sponsoring events, and showing up for my community is not just something I do on the side. It is part of who I am, and it is woven into the culture of my businesses.
Why Community Matters
I grew up in humble beginnings in New Jersey, and I know what it feels like to go without. My childhood taught me the value of community support and the importance of stepping up for others. Those early experiences shaped my desire to give back. Today, being involved in my community is not just an obligation. It is a privilege.
A strong community creates opportunities, provides stability, and helps families thrive. When people feel supported, they have the confidence to pursue their goals and take care of those around them. Businesses play a key role in that support system, and I take that responsibility seriously.
The Connection Between Giving Back and Business Growth
Many business owners think giving back is something you do only after reaching a certain level of success. I believe it should be part of the journey from the beginning. When businesses invest in their communities, those communities invest right back in them. People like to support companies that care. They want to spend money with businesses that show up, donate, volunteer, and make a real difference.
At Airheads HVAC, we sponsor golf tournaments, Halloween events, family festivals, and many local charity initiatives. These events bring people together and strengthen the bonds that make a community feel like home. In return, when someone needs HVAC services or financial guidance, they remember who showed up for their kids, their neighborhoods, and their local causes.
Community involvement builds trust, and trust is one of the most valuable assets any business can have.
Serving on Charitable Boards
One of the most meaningful ways I give back is by serving on charity boards. I am on the Leadership Board of Metropolitan Ministries, the board of HubLife Charities, and the board of Trinity Chat. Each organization serves a different purpose, but they all share a common mission: to support and uplift people in need.
Serving on these boards allows me to use my time, skills, and network to create bigger impact. It also gives me a deeper understanding of the challenges families in our community face. When you get close to the work, you see firsthand how important these programs are. You see how one small act of kindness can change someone’s entire day or even their life.
Creating a Culture of Service
Giving back is not something I do alone. I have made it part of the culture at Airheads HVAC. Our teams participate in events, volunteer at community programs, and help organize local activities. Seeing my employees get involved and take pride in serving others reminds me why this work is so important. When your team feels connected to something bigger than themselves, it creates unity, purpose, and pride that carries into every part of the business.
Service also strengthens leadership. It builds empathy, teamwork, and respect. When people work together to help others, they form stronger relationships and a more positive workplace culture.
Teaching My Kids the Importance of Giving
As a mother of three, giving back is something I also practice at home. I want my kids to see how important it is to help others and be part of their community. I take them with me to events and show them what real impact looks like. I want them to grow up knowing that success means nothing if you are not using it to make life better for the people around you.
These moments give them perspective, empathy, and gratitude. They learn that leadership is not just about running a business or being in charge. It is about being of service.
Personal Fulfillment Through Giving
Giving back fills my heart in ways that success alone never could. It reminds me why I work hard and what truly matters. Helping others gives me energy, purpose, and gratitude. It pushes me to be better, do more, and stay connected to the people I serve.
Business can be stressful, but giving back brings joy. It grounds me. It helps me stay focused on the bigger picture and reminds me that we are all capable of making a real difference.
Encouraging Other Business Owners to Get Involved
If you are a business owner, big or small, I encourage you to get involved in your local community. Start with what you can manage. Sponsor a small event. Donate services. Volunteer. Join a board. Support a local family in need. Every effort matters.
You do not have to wait until you reach a certain level of success. Giving back can be part of your growth. It can help your business build stronger relationships, gain visibility, and earn trust. More importantly, it will give you a sense of purpose that money alone cannot provide.
Final Thoughts
Giving back is one of the most rewarding and impactful parts of my life. It strengthens communities, builds trust, brings people together, and helps businesses grow with heart. When leaders step up and give their time, resources, and support, they create a ripple effect that touches countless lives. I believe every business has the power to create positive change. All it takes is a willingness to show up, care, and give back.