Giving Back to the Community

Kristy: Do you feel it’s important for other firms to adopt community-enhancing programs?

George: Absolutely. As a business owner, it’s important to pitch in and enhance the local community. Involvement in community-directed programs also helps create a richer office culture, especially when all staff members support the program. It just feels good to do the right thing, and I imagine other firm owners would agree with me.

Kristy: What other notable programs are you involved in and/or think are great causes for other firms to champion as a way to give back to their communities?

George: Like I stated earlier, I’ve been involved with Melwood for quite a few years, and now the anti-bullying program. I know that there are many more wonderful charitable organizations out there, like Red Cross, American Cancer Society, Purple Heart, Meals on Wheels, and countless other groups that work to provide shelter to the homeless, preserve our forests and wetlands, advance the arts, etc. I would recommend that firm owners select a cause that is close to their heart and move forward to champion their program of choice. There is no way to describe the feeling you get when you re-invest in your community. All I know is that is feels right. It feels good all the way around.

Final Words

George Watkins is a successful business owner, a dedicated family man, and a responsible member of his community. Success has not been lost on Watkins, but rather has driven him to give back — to invest in his city by championing programs that ultimately make it better. His support of Operation Nice will help to further develop a learning environment that is safe, comfortable and fun for elementary-aged children in La Plata, Md. Watkins’ dedication to supporting his local community is commendable and sets an example for others. Nice work Team Watkins! I salute you and others who are active in their communities, as well.

For more information on George’s community efforts, contact him at George@watkinscpa.com. For more information on Operation Nice, visit www.operationnice.org.

Watkins & Associates PA: At-a-Glance

• Year founded: 1993
• Total employees: 2 full-time; 4 part-time
• Home base: La Plata, MD
• Firm website: www.watkinscpa.com
• Firm description: Full-service accounting practice with niche expertise in Department of Defense Contractors, Not-for-profit, Medical practices
• Technology of Choice: Thomson Reuters Virtual Office Suite, Bill.com, Right Networks