INFORMING OUR ASSOCIATES ABOUT ALL THINGS AVERITT • VOL. 5 • 2025 COMMUNITY CHALLENGE matters
LOOKING AHEAD: FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT FOR SECOND HALF P3 EQUIPPED FOR THE FUTURE: DRIVERS TESTING NEW TRUCKS P5 ABOVE AND BEYOND: CHALLENGE COIN HONORS TOP- NOTCH TEAMMATES P7
CELEBRATING YOU
Our Chattanooga teammates enjoyed a food truck as part of that facility's "Operation: Thank You Week" activities. Throughout our network, we said thanks with cookouts, snacks, cool treats and other festivities. We hope you know how much we appreciate you during "Operation: Thank You Week" ... and every week!
TEAM NOTES HELPING PEOPLE SUCCEED: THE HEART OF AVERITT FROM GARY SASSER
Helping people succeed is one of the core elements of our culture. It’s at the heart of all we do. We certainly do that through the services we provide for our customers, and by supporting our associates with strong career opportunities and top-notch facilities and equipment. Averitt Charities , our charitable giving organization. This partnership between Averitt and our associates gives back to the communities we serve. Averitt Charities includes Averitt Cares for Kids and our support for the good works of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. It One of the most important ways we help people succeed is through also includes the Team Up Community Challenge , through which we volunteer with local organizations across our system to make a difference for people in need. Each of these programs helps fund Averitt Charities. From weekly associate
contributions of $1 and the company match to those donations, to recognizing our associates’ Team Up Community Challenge hours and honoring our associates’ achievements, life events and milestones, we're working together in a big way. That’s what The Power of One is all about. We currently have more than 96% of associates who are members of Averitt Cares for Kids, giving $1 a week to support the good works of St. Jude. That’s an impressive number, and it shows the kind of people we have on our team. I look forward to the day when we can have 100% participation. I believe that goal is attainable, and it will be wonderful to see what’s possible when we’re able to achieve that milestone. T m
Artwork by St. Jude patient Ty
OUR HEROES WEAR RED Children’s Art Calendar Deadline Coming Soon
We continue to receive outstanding artwork from associates’ children and grandchildren, and we want to make sure you get the opportunity to give us your submission for the 2026 Children’s Art Calendar Contest ! The theme for the 2026 calendar is Our Heroes Wear Red, and the deadline to send in artwork is July 31, 2025 . To enter, have your child(ren) or grandchild(ren) who are younger than 18 draw a picture horizontally on an 8 ½ x 11 piece of paper, and we’ll choose the best entries for the 2026 calendar. Remember that the young artist whose drawing is chosen for the cover will win a $100 gift card ! The others featured in the calendar will receive $50 gift cards , and every child who participates will get a $10 gift card . To learn more about the contest, go to InsideAveritt.com/Calendar . T m
DID YOU KNOW? In 2022, Averitt Cares for Kids’ support helped 17 children graduate from the St. Jude School Program.
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Make plans to attend a cookout near you! View more appreciation cookouts on the Events Calendar at InsideAveritt.com . UPCOMING COOKOUT EVENT SCHEDULE Our Driving Force Is People
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Looking Ahead In 2025 The Future Looks Bright As We Head Into The Second Half We’re more than halfway through 2025. Most industry experts have described the freight market as “slow” or “soft” this year. And while we’ve certainly seen lower business levels than what we’re used to, it hasn’t stopped us from continuing to invest in our people, our infrastructure and our technology. “It is because of the confidence we have in our associates and our customers that we continue to make these investments,” says BARRY BLAKELY , president and COO. “We have faced some headwinds in these first six months, many of which are things we cannot control, like the economy and tariffs. This industry is cyclical, and cycles always change. The good news is that our values and our beliefs don’t.” We’re already starting to see several customers show signs of confidence in what the rest of 2025 will look like. And the forecast is positive. “The rebound is coming. It’s not a matter of ‘if,’ but ‘when,’” says KENT WILLIAMS , executive vice president BARRY BLAKELY
Our brand-new Dothan service center features greatly increased dock doors and dock space, a much larger break room and at least twice the office space. It's just one of many infrastructure investments we've made in 2025.
expansion, we are not looking at what we need right now. We are looking at least five years down the road. ‘What will our customers need in future?’” One of those projects is not just a new facility, but also a new market in Florida. Located right off I-75 in north-central Florida, Ocala will allow us to add more capacity in the state and improve service to the fast-growing Ocala metro area as well as Jacksonville and Orlando. It is expected to open before the end of this year. Dothan has already moved into a new facility, with new service centers coming for Tulsa , Montgomery and Oklahoma City . Meanwhile, Shreveport , Baton Rouge and Knoxville have all undergone extensive renovations or expansions. Our associates at our San Antonio and Miami locations will see remodels taking place later this year as well. “We want to provide the best amenities and work environment in the industry, and these facility enhancements help us achieve that goal,” says Barry. “Our associates have earned this. By operating efficiently and productively, by delivering exceptional service to our customers, we can One of the biggest changes we’ve made over the past few years has been swapping out the onboard technology on our tractors from Omnitracs units to tablets. Our Truckload team has completed the switch. Our Dedicated team is currently in the process of moving to tablets. The tablets add layers of flexibility and functionality for our driving associates. Being able to take the tablet out of the cab to get customer signatures and take photos of shipments saves time and helps us be more efficient. MODERN EQUIPMENT We also take pride in having one of the youngest fleets in the industry, with our tractors averaging less than three years old. This, combined with safety technology like adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation, electronic stability control and active brake assist, helps keep our drivers and the driving public safe. EXCITING TIMES AHEAD All of these investments are made with the future in mind, putting our team in the driver's seat for both the short-term and long-term future. “I know we have a good strategy that is designed to set us all up for success,” says Barry. “By providing quality service, projecting a professional image and operating safely, we are very well positioned to handle additional freight and grow our bill count into and out of our footprint.” T m continue to invest in our team.” ADVANCING TECHNOLOGY
of sales and marketing. “We've been committed to our plan and our strategy, focusing on our quality and service. That puts us in prime position to provide innovative and creative solutions that our competitors simply can’t offer.”
KENT WILLIAMS
OUR DRIVING FORCE IS PEOPLE We believe that our associates are truly the best of the best. That’s why we continue to provide opportunities for career growth. So far this year, we’ve promoted 20 associates into leadership, while seeing more than 240 associates transfer into positions to further their career journey. After listening to feedback from you and other associates, we made a change to our Uniformity Program . We introduced OOBE as our new uniform provider this spring. As a leader in the company apparel industry, OOBE shares many of our team’s values, focusing on innovation and outstanding service. And we’re already seeing a positive response from associates about how much easier it is to order uniform items and how quickly they arrive after ordering. Our Profit Sharing Plan continues to stand the test of time. Last year, an amount equal to 6.8% of your pay was deposited into your retirement account. That’s almost a month’s worth of pay that goes toward saving for the future. While many companies stop matching contributions and other similar programs, we believe strongly in this unique benefit for our associates and that the sky is the limit to where Profit Sharing can go. To help our teammates take care of themselves and their families, we continue to provide one of the most comprehensive and affordable benefits packages available. And those benefits go beyond our medical, vision and dental insurance. From discounts on car rentals and wireless service, to scholarship programs, to referral rewards and more, there is plenty of value to being an Averitt associate! INVESTING IN INFRASTRUCTURE “We have had more facility projects completed, underway or planned this year than we ever have,” says Barry. “When we invest in a new facility or an
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Opelika Service Center Director Started On The Dock ‘IT ALL GOES BACK TO OUR CULTURE’ We're proud to Promote From Within , because doing so ensures our culture is carried forward by people who know what it means to wear the Averitt red. New Opelika Service Center Director WILLIAM MYERS knows all about the opportunities that are available, having started his Averitt career more than 30 years ago part time on the dock. William grew into a frontline leader role that he held for about 11 years, then he decided to move into sales for about 14 years. In light of a family relocation to Florida a few years ago, William transferred from Opelika to Jacksonville, where he served in an operations support position. When longtime Opelika Service Center Director GREG CLARK retired at the end of last year, William was promoted and moved back to fill the shoes of his longtime friend. “You hear about people being promoted from within, you see it a lot and you experience it in this company,” William explains. “Everywhere you look, you see people who started in other roles who have been promoted. It all goes back to our culture, and our people are the best ones to carry us into the future. I’ve been blessed to have been here 31 years. It’s a special place with special people.” According to William, his growth is the result of a total team effort. “Every position I’ve held, I’ve always had people who believed in me and worked with me and gave me training and tools to succeed,” he says. “And, of course, a willingness to learn and do whatever I’ve been asked to ensure our future.” William has practical advice for associates who want to grow in their own careers. “I tell people to ask questions and be willing to learn as much as you can,” he says. “But most importantly, help others as you grow together. Those opportunities were there for me, and they’re there for anybody who is willing to do that.” Learning has been a continual process for William throughout his Averitt career.
“I always tell people that there’s not a day that goes by that I haven’t learned something from somebody,” he says. “Whether that has been a regional vice president, a service center director, a platform or OS&D associate, a customer service associate and especially our drivers, I’ve learned from everybody.” Congratulations, William, on your recent promotion to Service Center Director, and thank you for sharing your growth story! If you’re ready to take the next step in your own Averitt career, we encourage you to check out our Opportunities page at InsideAveritt.com/Opportunities . That’s where you can find a list of open positions, a link to our Job Hotline , video testimonials, and information about our Leadership Development and Dock-To-Driver Training programs. T m New Opelika Service Center Director WILLIAM MYERS started his Averitt career more than 30 years ago part time on the dock.
RETIREES Thank you for your service to our team!
NEW LEADERS
Sean Melton TL Area Operations Leader CORPORATE Leopoldo Meneses Operations Manager MIAMI Carlos Peru
One way our retirees can stay connected to Averitt is by becoming a member of the Ambassador Team, a special group of retired associates who stay connected to our unique culture of giving back. Ambassador teammates are annual contributors to Averitt Cares for Kids and are welcome to participate in the Team Up Community Challenge, People Like You Referral Rewards, and more! Email Dusty Barrow in Marketing and Communications at dbarrow@ averitt.com to learn how to join. STAY CONNECTED THROUGH THE AMBASSADOR TEAM
Matthew Arnold
Frontline Leader LITTLE ROCK
Paul Bevan Larry Billings Steve Christian Joseph Colvin Clifford Kerbo Steve Michaud
Dallas
Shop Leader SAN ANTONIO
Anthony Britt
Frontline Leader SC STATE PORT AUTHORITY
Cookeville
Tupelo
Millard Smith
Transportation Specialist HOUSTON
Reginald Clark Frontline Leader FULTON CO. DISTRIBUTION & FULFILLMENT James Coleman Site Manager PODS – CENTRAL FL Kevin Gamble Shop Leader MOBILE John Hornby
Chattanooga Fayetteville San Antonio Memphis Memphis ZF Carolina Jackson TN PODS
Drema Will
Site Manager ZF CAROLINA Frontline Leader DALLAS
Brandon Williams
Richard Severinsen
Ted Teague
Thomas Teague Ronnie Thompson Bobby White Sr.
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Commitment Includes Testing Dynamic New Trucks EQUIPPED FOR THE FUTURE
When we talk about staying prepared for the future, that includes ensuring our associates have the best possible
equipment. And we’re currently testing dynamic new Volvo trucks to see what the best fit is for our driving force. The models we’re currently testing are the 2026 VNL860 sleeper and the VNR64T daycabs. Like previous Volvo models we’ve driven, these new trucks are loaded with several safety features, such as Active
WILLIAM WATSON
Driver Assist, roll stability, blind-spotter technology and more. Additionally, the VNL860 sleepers include a slightly larger bunk area with a driver’s work station. And they’re equipped with a battery-powered integrated parking cooler and heater. Longtime Eastern NC Truckload driver WILLIAM WATSON is one of 10 drivers testing this new equipment. He is glad we take the initiative to involve our driving force in the testing process. “To me, it’s very exciting to get the opportunity to test out the new equipment,” says Williams, a 28-year member of our team. “I’m the type of person who likes to try something new.” Throughout his Averitt career, William has appreciated our commitment to having a dependable ride.
Our team has been testing 2025 Volvo sleeper (pictured) and daycab trucks this year.
“Averitt has always tried its best to keep the drivers in top-notch equipment,” William says. “It’s always in good condition. I’ve been in good equipment ever since I’ve been here.” We thank William and the other associates who are participating in this testing phase. Your feedback helps us make the best decisions for our driving force. And no matter what direction we take, one thing will remain constant – our dedication to making sure associates have the best tools for the job! T m
WHO WANTS APPLE AIRPODS? LOG IN TO WIN Quarterly Red Thinkin’ Rewards Prize Red Thinkin’ Rewards is a unique program
be cashing in on. When you log in between now and Sept. 30 , you’ll be entered in a drawing for a pair of Apple AirPods Pro ! That sounds like music to our ears, so we encourage you to log in and check out the online catalog, which features electronics, appliances, outdoor gear, getaway vacations and much more! To see your account, log in to RedThinkinRewards .com.
that enables you to cash in on a job well done. You can earn points for actions you take every day, such as service and safety milestones, achieving operational goals, People Like You referrals and more. One way we encourage you to check out your Red Thinkin’ Rewards account is through our quarterly login contests. When you log in, you’ll see how many points you have and the items you could
If you're reading this, then it's time TO sign up for a Health Screening!
Why? You can get valuable insights about your health, PLUS you will be entered to win PTO and Red Thinkin' Rewards points. Visit InsideAveritt.com/HealthScreenings to learn more. T m
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Referred By Family, Louisville Leader Refers People To Averitt PAYING IT FORWARD
Louisville dispatch frontline leader TRAVIS EVANS began his Averitt career because of a referral. Now, he’s paying it forward through his own People Like You referrals. Travis has had at least three referrals join our team, and he says his positive experience is the reason he spreads the word. “It’s the culture,” says Travis, who started part time on the dock, went full time, and has since grown into relay, outbound and dispatch frontline leader roles. “I haven’t had many jobs in my life, but this one, I took roots to. The people here are great to work with. When I get home, it’s always been a positive day.” Travis’ referrals have been a mix of family and friends, with the common TRAVIS EVANS
denominator being a strong work ethic. “My uncle, CRAIG EVANS , referred me to help me get in the door part time 15 years ago,” Travis recalls. “From there, his grandson ROSS BOWMAN was one of my referrals, and he’s here now. Along the way, I’ve made friends, thrown out my name a little bit and hoped for the best, and it’s worked out for them.” Thank you, Travis, for sharing your Averitt experience with People Like You and referring like-minded people to our team! If you know people who would be a good fit for Averitt and want to know more about our People Like You referral program, visit InsideAveritt.com/PeopleLikeYou . T m
People Like You are very important for our future success, because you know others who would be a great fit for our culture. These associates earned referral rewards after their referrals were hired to the Averitt team! SHOWING THE POWER OF ONE MORE Associates Referring People Like You, Earning Referral Rewards
Miami maintenance frontline leader JOSE CARBONELL
Knoxville dock associate DOUG HUTCHISON
Dallas dock associate JOSEPH MARAGIA
Director of Dedicated Business Development KASEY TAYLOR
Corporate associate ERIC WOOD
Dallas operations manager JEFF MORELAND
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PRESIDENTIAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
PRESENTING OUR HIGHEST HONOR TO TOP-NOTCH ASSOCIATES
The Presidential Achievement Award is the highest level of recognition an associate can receive for their efforts. It honors those who go above and beyond in support of Our Customers, Our Associates and Our Future as determined by our team's vice presidents.. One of the first associates to receive a Presidential Award is Dedicated driver DUANE LARGENT , who was recognized last year after he helped save the life of a fellow truck driver who had been shot while traveling on the interstate. Duane was honored in several ways for being a highway hero, including being named a Presidential Award winner. A recent recipient of the Presidential Award is Mayfield city driver SHONDALE KENDALL . Service Center Director ED DEESE says Shondale is a daily shining example of our commitment to professionalism, excellence and safety. “Shondale is regularly complimented by our Mayfield customers about his friendliness and desire to take care of them,” Ed explains. “He is always positive and reliable, and he is focused on doing a good job for Averitt and our customers. Shondale helps his fellow drivers with customer information and directions. And he has the maximum amount of safety points. Shondale truly is what our culture looks like in action.” We’re thankful for the outstanding efforts of Duane and Shondale, and we look forward to seeing more examples of associates who earn Presidential Achievement Award status for going above and beyond! T m We’re proud of our culture of recognizing associates for their efforts, and we’re excited about one new way we’re doing that – the Presidential Achievement Award!
Mayfield city driver SHONDALE KENDALL (center) is pictured with Service Center Director Ed Deese (left) and Region 2 Vice President Mike Monin after he recently earned our Presidential Achievement Award.
FOCUSING ON FATIGUE
Fatigue Management Our Quarterly Safety focus
Fatigued driving is a dangerous combination. That’s why our quarterly safety focus is our Fatigue Management course. This video is a great resource that can help you understand the causes of fatigue, warning signs and how to prevent fatigue. As an incentive for you to sharpen your safety skills, every driver who completes the course will be entered in a drawing for 10 winners of 250,000 Red Thinkin’ Rewards points ! To watch the video, log in at InsideAveritt.com/Fatigue . T m
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Softball Tournament Scheduled For Aug. 16 ROUNDING THE CORNER, HEADED FOR HOME This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday , Aug. 16 , and it will be held in Cookeville, the site of our last two softball tournaments. If you’ve never attended the Averitt Cares for Kids Family Softball Tournament , we hope you’ll make plans to come this year! There are many reasons the tournament has long been one of our associates' favorite destinations. Facilities from across our network bring softball squads and catch up with fellow associates, and many bring their family and friends. As always, it will be a free, family-friendly occasion with lots of food, drinks, activities for children and highlight-reel softball action. As the tournament’s namesake suggests, it’s a great opportunity to Summer is officially here, and that means the Averitt Cares for Kids Family Softball Tournament is just around the corner.
shine a light on Averitt Cares for Kids , Averitt Charities and the good works of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital . And it’s a reminder of the positive impact that about 96% of associates make through their Averitt Cares for Kids participation. We can’t wait to see you there, so get your bats, gloves and cleats ready, and join us in Cookeville for another edition of this Averitt tradition! T m
READY ‘FORE’ SOME GOLF? Scott Wolf Memorial Averitt Open On Sept. 20 The Scott Wolf Memorial Averitt Open is one of our team traditions, and it raises money for a great cause – the Scott Wolf Memorial Scholarship. This year’s tournament is scheduled for wishes, the Wolf family set up a scholarship fund in his name in 2013.
Scott’s legacy of giving back to teammates continues to live on through that scholarship. Through the years, 114 students have received the scholarship, totaling more than $86,000 ! To learn more about the golf tournament, email Events@Averitt.com . And to learn more about the Scott Wolf Memorial Scholarship, visit InsideAveritt.com/ScottWolfScholarship . T m
Saturday , Sept. 20 at Tennessee Tech Golden Eagle Golf Club in Cookeville. As has been the case in recent years, the tournament features breakfast, lunch, 18 holes of golf, cart rental, entry into prize drawings and a putting contest that raises money for the scholarship. Scott Wolf served as Vice President of Corporate Services until his passing in 2012. Honoring his
SAFETY AWARDS For a complete list of Safety Award winners, including five- and 10-year recipients, visit InsideAveritt.com.
OVER 20 TEAM We’re proud to add members to our Over 20 Team! The following associates joined our team in July of 2005:
20 YEARS William Denham Harvey Gandy Freddy Villacis Jeremy Weigel Reginald Wiggins 15 YEARS Terence Poole David Stark Kenneth Williams
Michael Negron Chadwick Raper Anjennette Reed Pete Russo Anthony Smith Thurston Walker Greg Weaver Traci Wheat Jimmy Young
Orlando Knoxville Dallas Fort Myers Mercedes
Lexington
Dallas Miami
Atlanta East Nashville
Tifton
Anderson Broady John Duncan Dennis Ferguson Craig Golden Christopher Grant Daniel Howse Jack Evans Thaddeus Jones Kevin Keeney George Makovicka Michael Mansfield Chris McCone Joe McGee
Raleigh Lexington Fayetteville Charlotte Nashville Raleigh Roanoke Mercedes Dallas Dallas Raleigh Nashville New Orleans
35 YEARS Samuel Jordan Greg Tucker Martin Wilson 30 YEARS Gregory Keller 25 YEARS John Loper
Corporate
Boyd Company
Nashville Decatur Jackson TN
Jackson MS For a list of July milestone service awards, including the newest members of our Over 20 Team, visit InsideAveritt.com .
Birmingham Columbus Mercedes
Dothan
Knoxville
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POWER OF ONE FLEXIBILITY
New Business A Result Of Our Ability To Deliver Multiple Services
One of the best things about our ability to provide multiple services is the opportunities it creates for our entire team. This Power of One mentality was recently put to good use within our Dedicated team. In the Atlanta area, we recently signed a Dedicated contract with Diversitech, a parts distributor in the HVAC industry. This addition allowed about 20 associates the opportunity to transfer into a new account. As part of our new Diversitech operations, we deliver from one customer location to another, with two lanes going out of the Atlanta area to Tempe, AZ, and Columbus, TX. “Integrated sends us the load tenders and handles billing the customer,” John says. “It’s a little different than how we normally operate. We were given that flexibility by Mr. Sasser, and that was very meaningful to us.” EXISTING RELATIONSHIP An important reason we were able to land a Dedicated account with Diversitech is that we already have a strong relationship and have proved “This is just drop-and-hook on both ends,” explains Director of Dedicated Operations JOHN CREAMER . “Our drivers aren’t touching anything. They’re just providing transport.” JOHN CREAMER
the value of partnering with Averitt. Our Dedicated team currently handles inbound transload from Savannah up to Diversitech’s Buford, GA, location. And Diversitech is an established Averitt LTL customer. The future looks even brighter for our partnership with Diversitech. We’re already looking to add more Dedicated lanes, and we’re in the process of increasing our LTL presence in the Atlanta East area. It's just another example of how we can grow our business and increase bill count through The Power of One! T m
When we go above and beyond to provide excellent service, it shows that Our Heroes Wear Red! These associates went the extra mile to represent Averitt with pride – and our customers said it showed!
TRACEY COKER – Atlanta West I want to express much gratitude for the care, timely communication and friendship I have gained with Tracey Coker. I have loved getting to know and work with her over the years due to her vibrant personality, people-first mentality and hard-working attitude. Tracey is the reason why we use Averitt as a carrier within our transportation network. Monica, Border Equipment – Conley, GA
KARLEY WILSON – National Call Center Karley went above and beyond to assist me. She was incredibly helpful in providing updates, even when she didn't have all the information. Her proactive communication and genuine desire to resolve the issue were truly commendable. Karley's dedication to customer satisfaction is a valuable asset to the team. I wish there were more people like Karley in customer service. Rossana, GE Appliances – Louisville, KY MICHAEL GORDON – Birmingham Michael is always going above and beyond to make sure that our supplies are placed in our storeroom exactly where we want them. He is very kind and courteous. His uniform is always neat, and he serves with a smile. Ashley, Salon Centric – Tuscaloosa, AL
ROGELIO HERRERA – Amarillo We were in a bind to have a shipment picked up and delivered the same day. Rogelio saved our biscuits, and we will never forget it!
We will now use Averitt for our other shipments. Celina, Grower’s Source – Big Sandy, TX
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THE RIPPLE EFFECT
Giving Back Starts with One Small Gesture
TONY BUTLER may be just a few months into his role as a transportation specialist at the Dallas service center, but he has already been involved in efforts to serve his local community. When the opportunity to get involved with a Team Up Community Challenge came his way, Tony jumped right in. He said the decision to help was a “no-brainer.” Why might someone who has been here less than seven months decide to participate so soon? Tony revealed it was because of his history with Averitt. His mother, Jaymie Hughes, worked at Averitt for over 10 years before she passed away from cancer in 2024. “I’d visit her when she was sick, and no matter when I came, someone from Averitt was there visiting too. Different people, every time. That told me everything I needed to know about the kind of culture here,” Tony says. That same sense of community is what Tony felt when he was invited to participate in his first Team Up for the Tarrant Area Food Bank in Fort Worth, TX. The day itself was hands-on and high-energy as the team sorted canned goods and packed meal kits for families in need. “It turned into a game,” Tony says with a laugh. “We were digging through these huge bins of canned goods trying to find the right mix of protein, fruits, veggies. It was like a scavenger hunt." What made the day the most fun was the camaraderie. Tony was glad to be together with team members, as they all rarely get to be in one place due to the nature of their roles. “Seeing everyone’s personalities come out and working together for a great cause was just fun. There’s nothing like it,” he explains. This Team Up project was organized and led by fellow transportation specialist DEBRA LEGATE , who has a long history of community involvement and a “let’s make it happen” mindset. When it came time to organize the event, Debra stepped up and got the ball rolling, an action that
directly inspired Tony to get involved. “She made it so easy to say yes,” Tony says. “Debra’s the type of person who makes you feel welcomed right away. You can tell she cares about the work, the people and the impact.” For Debra, organizing a Team Up event is just part of how she leads. “If you wait around for things to happen, they don’t happen. You’ve got to make them happen,” she says. “If you [serve your community] just once, you’ll see how much it blesses your heart. You’ll want to do it again.” That ripple effect is exactly what happened. “I’m already thinking about planning my own,” Tony says. “This first one was Debra’s, and I was just happy to show up and help. But I see how much good we can do and how much it brings people together. That’s something I want to keep being a part of.” When both were asked what they'd say to other associates who haven’t joined a Team Up event yet, they left us with a simple truth: “Just get out there and try something different, because it only helps.” Let Tony and Debra’s words encourage you to serve your local community. And remember, every hour given during a Team Up event results in a matching contribution to Averitt Charities . To learn more about how you can get involved, visit InsideAveritt.com/TeamUp . T m Pictured from left, Dallas associates SAM IBARRA, TONY BUTLER, DEBRA LEGATE, DAVID VANMETER and JERRY GOSSER recently participated in a Team Up Community Challenge event at the Tarrant Area Food Bank.
Teammates across our network are finding ways to serve, from clothing donations in Charlotte to a blood drive in Orlando and food donations in Tri-Cities.
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SERVICE AWARDS
Below are the five-year milestones of associates WHO HAVE SERVED 20 YEARS OR MORE with our team. To view all available photos of our latest service awards, visit InsideAveritt.com.
Decatur associate SHERRY AHRENDT (right, 35 years) with Service Center Director Brandon Fox (left)
Atlanta West associate JASON GEER (center, 35 years) with operations manager Dwayne Gribble (right) and Service Center Director Zach Ervin (left)
Director of Customer Service ELAINE GROSSHOLZ (center, 35 years) with Vice President of Information Systems Tim Saylor (left) and Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing Kent Williams (right)
Atlanta West associate HANS MELIEZER (left, 35 years) with weight & research area leader Steve Jaenicke (right)
Tampa associate HUNTER JONES (right, 30 years) with Service Center Director Dick Wiggins (left)
Jacksonville associate GARY GILBERT (right, 25 years) with Service Center Director Tommy Webb (left)
Dallas associate DARRELL WHITE (center, 30 years) with Service Center Director Dave Millea (right) and Region 6 Vice President Calvin Rackley (left)
Tampa associate DANA HARDING (left, 25 years) with Service Center Director Dick Wiggins (right)
Memphis associate RICHARD LEWIS (center, 25 years) with operations manager Brian Hopper (right) and Service Center Director Doug Granito (left)
Corporate associate SHARON MATA (25 years)
Corporate associate ASHLEY MCCORMICK (right, 25 years) with Recruitment Marketing Leader Gayle Stewart (left)
Tampa associate MALCOLM JONES (right, 25 years) with operations manager Todd Girard (left)
For more Over 20 Team photos, log on to InsideAveritt.com and check out our photo galleries!
Corporate associate RHONDA SLAGLE (center, 25 years) with Director of Finance Kerry Davis (right) and Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer Johnny Fields (left)
Tampa associate MISTY WALKER (left, 25 years) with Service Center Director Dick Wiggins (right)
Director of Final Mile Services PETE ZIEGLER (right, 25 years) with Vice President of Operations Larry Mason (left)
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Backing forklifts and open docks can each present hazards. Use your horn and watch your step. Don’t get caught off guard.
COMMUNITY CHALLENGE matters
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