The Path to Greatness
‘Karen and Jay share thoughts on the importance of goodness and caring for others – as we lead our lives.’
Being good. Doing good. Taking an honest interest in others and doing all you can to better the lives of those around you. These are simple steps. And each individual act may not seem all that important. But when taken together and practiced consistently over time – these are the building blocks of true greatness. In each of our lives, greatness is not achieved in the pursuit of greatness, but instead it is the natural byproduct of being a truly good person – being selfless, caring and putting all your soul into the welfare of others.
“To be good, and do good, is the whole duty of humankind comprised in a few words.” These powerful words were once stated by Abigail Adams, the wife of our second President John Adams. Doing good will make you good. And, doing good – with consistency and intention will in fact, make you great.
Interestingly, you would probably not be surprised to learn that selfless people who give and volunteer are typically happier people. When you feel that you are making a contribution that will help someone else live a better life, there is a natural feeling of fulfillment and purpose. And purpose is everything. Living with purpose gives us energy. It also creates a positive aura around us that others can feel, absorb, and use to propel themselves to a higher level.
So, as you go into this coming week, why not pause and ask yourself – how best can I do good? How can I make a positive contribution – give of myself and make an impact? If you ask these questions, you will definitely come up with answers. And, while they may not seem dramatically impactful – one by one – if taken together, acted on and practiced with consistency, you not only will be doing good – you will most assuredly find yourself traveling along the pathway to greatness.
CCA Global - A Rocket Ship for Innovation, Determination and Doing Good!
Today, it has become so commonplace for small town, family-owned retail stores and businesses to be forced out of business by the big box companies. The global pandemic only exacerbated this situation as small brick and mortar retail locations were mandated to shut their doors while big box competitors like Target and Walmart were allowed to stay open. And, today, we see Amazon delivery trucks on every street – creating even more competition for the family business.
While we all applaud innovation and appreciate the benefits of scale, we also love the entrepreneurial spirit of small business – often family owned and operated – that forms the backbone of America. And, given the increasingly competitive nature of the marketplace, the small business owner needs every possible advantage he or she can find – to stay in business and compete. Thankfully, based right here in New Hampshire, CCA Global Partners ccaglobalpartners.com has risen to precisely this challenge and is helping small businesses succeed across America and beyond.
Founded in 1984, Alan Greenberg and my good friend Howard Brodsky created CCA Global Partners, originally known as Carpet One. They formed a coop of family-owned carpet stores to take on the big guys through the pooling of their purchasing power and innovating differentiated products that would only be available in their stores. The company's ambitious mission was and is to ensure that independent, family-owned businesses succeed.
Corporate giants spend huge amounts of media dollars while negotiating big discounts on purchasing - making it very difficult for any local family business to compete and succeed. Using the co-op model along with some innovation, passion, and perseverance, CCA provides the benefits of scale that make it possible for a family-owned, independent business to do more than merely survive, but to compete and thrive!
In their first year, CCA Global’s Carpet One organization grew to 26 members with over $25 million in revenue. Since then, the Carpet One network has expanded – today with more than 1,000 active carpet store members. Meanwhile, CCA has replicated their success from carpet stores – expanding into tile stores, lighting stores, bicycle shops, and beyond. Today, CCA Global Partners is one of the largest privately owned cooperatives in the United States with over 4,000 member businesses, 20,000 childcare centers with another 1 million independent businesses in North America benefiting from CCA Global’s business leadership through its 14 different affiliate companies.
The initial vision that Alan and Howard developed has now changed the face of retailing in America, and truly around the world. The growth of CCA has not only helped the member businesses that benefit from the CCA platform, but CCA has also been a leader in giving back - helping so many nonprofits and charitable organizations - supporting breast cancer awareness, helping veterans, and showing love to four-legged animals and many more. CCA, its employees, businesses, and members all care for the community and the world. And it’s all because Alan and Howard had a dream – and by doing good, they and CCA have achieved greatness!
Tom Blonski - A Force for Good through Catholic Charities NH
In a recent lunch meeting with Tom Blonski, Catholic Charities NH's (CCNH, CC-NH.org ) long-time CEO and President, it was evident that he is passionate about fulfilling their mission of responding to those in need with programs that heal, comfort and empower. Because as Tom says, "Through the lens of honoring the dignity of the human person, we “move lives forward” through solidarity, subsidiarity, compassion and by embracing the common good."
Since 1945, when Bishop Matthew F. Brady created Catholic Charities NH, it has been at the forefront of creating positive change in communities across New Hampshire. Today, under the leadership of Tom - CCNH has over 1,000 employees with a $100+ million budget serving people of all faiths and socioeconomic backgrounds. Its programs serve an amazing 1-in-12 NH residents each year, including seven skilled nursing, four independent living and one assisted living community. With 22 service locations throughout NH and 11 social services programs focusing on poverty, hunger, mental health, homelessness, unsafe environments for children and other issues impacting NH - they are making an impact!
Under Tom's direction, CCNH has continued its commitment to nurturing children and strengthening families. New Generation is an emergency shelter and transitional housing facility for pregnant women, as well as single mothers and children, experiencing homelessness because of domestic violence, substance use, mental health or other challenges. Our Place is a curriculum-based program helping parents to provide their children with the best chance possible to grow up in nurturing and safe environments. The St. Charles School is a full-time licensed private special education provider for students, grades K-8, who display severe emotional disturbances and other forms of behavioral impairments in traditional classroom settings. For more information on these life-changing programs go to CC-NH.org/children-families.
Tom has made caring for seniors a top priority at CCNH especially through the difficult Covid years. The organization's nursing facilities, including St. Teresa's Manor, St. Francis Home, St. Ann, St. Vincent de Paul, Mt. Carmel Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, and Warde Senior Living have thrived under his leadership, providing essential healthcare and supportive services to over 1,000 seniors annually. Helping seniors to remain independent in their homes is evident through programs like Caregivers, which offers crucial services such as grocery assistance, medical appointment transportation, and emotional support. Please go to CC-NH.org/senior-support-services
The New Hampshire Food Bank, a major program of CCNH, has experienced significant growth. Incredibly in 2022 more than 16 millions of pounds of food was delivered to 400 partner agencies statewide as well as over 13 million meals were provided! Tom’s commitment to addressing hunger-related issues extends beyond food distribution. He championed the Cooking Matters and Culinary Job Training Programs, empowering individuals suffering from financial hardship to gain valuable skills and pursue successful careers in the food service industry. CC-NH.nhfoodbank.org
Tom’s heart is in the community. CCNH addresses local community needs through its Community Services program. With district offices strategically located across the state, the organization's case management, direct outreach, and referral services have made a meaningful impact especially by creating pathways out of poverty. Over 57,000 NH adults have a serious mental illness so it's only natural that this is an area of focus for CCNH. Their goal is to help these individuals by making mental health counseling services more accessible, cost-effective and judgment free. Additionally, under his leadership, the Immigration Legal Services program has provided high-quality legal consultation and representation to over 623 individuals from 78 different countries, advocating for their rights and well-being.
Homelessness is another important topic for Tom. To further support our veterans in the state, CCNH took over Liberty House in 2019, a program that provides a substance-free transitional program to help veterans get back on their feet, regain their independence and build stable futures. With CCNH’s backing, Liberty House was able to expand into a 16,000 square-foot home in 2020, allowing them to accommodate more residents and offer an enhanced range of services. Please check out some of the exciting events they are hosting over the next couple of months at CC-NH.libertyhousenh.org/events.
We'd like to thank Tom for his leadership along with his amazing team for the incredibly important work they are doing in NH.
Positive Profile of the Week: Roy Malool - the Ultimate ‘Can-Do’ Guy!
This week we are truly delighted to highlight a wonderful man – who truly achieved greatness – and achieved this greatness by ‘doing good’ – our late dear friend, Roy Malool.
I came to know Roy as a trusted friend and partner as we worked to revitalize our hometown of Newport, NH, through the Sunshine Initiative. Roy’s optimism was infectious. He was a leader whose positivity knew no bounds and left an indelible mark on the world through his business ventures and philanthropic endeavors. Despite facing numerous challenges, his optimism shone brightly throughout his life.
Born on October 10, 1926, Roy embraced life with an adventurous spirit. He served in the US Merchant Marine during World War II, traveling to various corners of the globe, which broadened his horizons and fueled his curiosity.
In 1947, he embarked on a remarkable journey, establishing his own company, Roymal Inc. His vision was to create water-based coatings for the graphic arts industry, paving the way for eco-friendly products that met stringent FDA requirements for food contact. Roy's innovation and determination allowed Roymal Inc. to thrive and become a global leader in its field.
Beyond business, Roy's positivity extended to his personal life. He cherished his family, sharing 55 years of marriage with his beloved Margot Slice Lindholm until her passing in 2005. Roy's heart found love again when he married Eeva Peltola in 2006, a testament to his unwavering optimism and capacity for love.
Roymal Inc. not only brought success but also contributed to the Newport community. Roy's loyalty to the town ran deep, and he actively supported various local causes through his private foundation, spreading positivity and hope throughout the community.
Roy Malool's infectious optimism was evident in his love for travel and his eagerness to explore the world. Even in the face of challenges like legal blindness and failing kidneys, he remained undeterred, continuing to work diligently into his 90’s.
On January 15, 2023, Roy's journey on this earth came to a close. Yet, his positive impact lives on in the hearts of those who knew him and the many lives he touched.
Roy Malool's unwavering positivity reminds us that through determination and a hopeful outlook, we can overcome any obstacle and leave a lasting legacy of goodness and generosity. His bright spirit continues to inspire others to see the world with open hearts and unwavering optimism. Thank you, Roy Malool!
Positive Quotes of the Week: The Path to Greatness
"The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively." - Bob Marley "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." - Mahatma Gandhi "Greatness is not found in possessions, power, position, or prestige. It is discovered in goodness, humility, service, and character." - William Arthur Ward "Success is not about how much you accomplish, but about the difference you make in other people's lives." - Michelle Obama "The true measure of greatness is how much kindness and compassion you extend to others." - Oprah Winfrey