From the Lighthouse

Building Community and Family: Thank You for Your Care and Support

If you ask people who work in the marine industry what sets it apart from others, many will tell you it’s the strength of relationships that are distinguishable. Many individuals and businesses drop anchor in the boating space and build upon both personal and professional connections between customers and colleagues alike. The resulting “communities” extend and reach far beyond the brick and mortar.

In the past, we may have loosely defined a community as a church, or a business or a neighborhood that works together for the common good with shared goals. Today, however, our views on community have expanded. We believe the common denominator of community is much more than “a team” perception; it’s all about FAMILY.   

We have come to understand that over time, a community evolves into family. While the family continues to work together to accomplish goals, there’s much more to the relationship than that. At Northpoint, we’ve learned that the priority becomes the support and the betterment of the individuals that make up the team/community. This is manifest in many ways, from morale, to the training and welfare of the individuals making up the community.  In times of stress or difficulties, we’ve experienced firsthand how the family rises together, and we get a powerful glimpse of our community at its best.

Case in point. The Northpoint community suffered a series of difficult challenges and losses throughout the month of December.  Larry Smith, an account manager, faced serious illness.  Then, Dee Nikiforou, senior inside sales representative, shared she is battling a rare form of cancer.  Tammy Baqir – spouse to Russell – discovered her breast cancer had returned in multiple places.  And Gary Busch, our beloved treasurer, passed away suddenly.  

As each situation unfolded, the personal impact on these Northpoint families was devastating, and felt by all within our community. With each new incident, the Northpoint community/family seemed to be hit with a downward spiral. However, strength emerged as our family members rose up, rallied and jumped into action, taking steps to find ways to assist all those who were impacted. Our community continues reaching out to assist, comfort, listen and support.

Much to our surprise and great appreciation, this support extended beyond our immediate family. As customers and industry peers learned about our people, we witnessed an avalanche of care and concern as colleagues reached out to offer words of comfort, encouragement and prayers. 

Such moments revealed the many angels among us, and the blessings of living and working within our community. In addition, it served as a wake-up call and a reminder for us to be constantly aware and to seek opportunities to serve others around and among us who may be struggling.    

While some may be more cynical about the strength of community, we’ve experienced the positive results and benefits firsthand. Our recent situation reminds us about what makes OUR Northpoint family and marine community so special … and why it’s so important to be personally engaged beyond the simple business transaction. 

As we’ve reflected on the value of community, we know that in our world and our area of focus, genuine care and concern extends beyond life and health issues. We know firsthand how financial hardships create key stressors and challenges for those facing hard times. As a gentle reminder, your Northpoint family is here for you. We encourage you to open your heart and trust your community so that we can support you and your business however possible. We care about you and what you’re facing. For us, YOU are part of our family. 

Thank you for the care, friendship and support you have offered to our team members during these recent difficult weeks. We are truly blessed to be part of this marine industry community and appreciate all you have done to strengthen and encourage us!