It’s March. A time for spring. A time for new awakening. A time for refreshed purpose and beginnings. Instead of feeling that typical lull of a dazed happiness with food, a smart cocktail, and a good book, we are in the midst of a global pandemic with panic and a shortage of supplies. Since we, like many other areas, are on the brink of a quarantine, we have a good bit of time on our hands to think. Thinking about what means the most to us. Thinking about what principles of coming together mean in terms of friendship and family. Thinking how we can cultivate community without being physically in close proximity.

Thus, Summer and I came up with a monthly project. SumConsulting is all about finance, but even more about community and people. The love of people. Even if we are remote. As a result of this, we decided our business is going to make a donation to a service, rescue, foundation, or cause that is near and ear to our hearts.

In February, we donated to Friends of the Library for Campbell. Not only is Campbell University the reason we have what we do today, but a good book is something never to be taken for granted. The Wiggins Memorial Library contributed to our success with employment at Campbell, as well as cultivated our love of reading and learning.

In March, we donated to a girl’s soccer team in my hometown. This was the donation most outside of my comfort zone. I am not into sports. I never have been. The universe blessed me with academia, not athletic capabilities. However, my little cousin is heavily involved in it. Summer used to be active in golf and other activities when she was my cousin’s age, and felt her efforts were underrepresented by society at times. Women’s sports receive half of the support as men’s, and empowerment of women is something SumConsulting can get down with completely.

We have taken time over this first portion of the year to really think about what means the most to us. Contributing and making an impact is high on that list, with a sprinkling of giving back to the community. Ultimately, we always get by with a little help from our friends.