Throughout the year, as we celebrate our 85th anniversary, we’ll be looking back at the lessons Mr. George gave us and thinking about how we can apply them to our personal and professional lives.

April’s lesson — Give Back — is one Mr. George is recognized for as much as anything he did or accomplished. He truly believed in giving for all the right reasons. It wasn’t something he felt obligated to do, but it was something he believed he was blessed to have the opportunity to do. He became successful because people in the community shopped in his store. So, he believed supporting them was only the right thing to do.

Giving back isn’t just about money; it’s also about giving your time and talents. The great part about our mission of being involved as responsible citizens in our communities is that giving is unique to each of us. It’s part of what makes us special as individuals — we all have different passions, focus areas and abilities. What I hope for is that each member of the Publix family will not worry about how much you have to give, but rather that you do give.

In this month’s center spread, we’re introducing Publix Serves. This effort will help clearly identify us when we’re volunteering or telling stories about supporting those who make our company successful — the people in the community. You’ll also learn about a special volunteer opportunity.

Let’s take this month to continue setting the example of what it means to be involved in our communities, and let’s remember Mr. George’s response when he was asked how much he’d be worth if he hadn’t given so much away: “Probably nothing.”

Join your Publix family today in changing people’s lives tomorrow.

Ed Crenshaw
CEO