Ambassador Spotlight - Kimberly Kitchens

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

Mel and Kimberly Kitchens

Kimberly Kitchens was intereviewd by the Laurens County Chamber of Commerce for her service and commitment to her community - get to know your local SERVPRO Ambassador! 

• Where are you from?

"Originally from South Florida. My husband and I were both native Floridians. His family is originally from Augusta. His cousin who is like a brother to him, lives in prosperity on the Lake. Through many vacations on Lake Murray, we came to the realization this was where we knew we wanted to grow old. So, we moved our family up to South Carolina to enjoy Lake Murray."  

• Tell us about your family.

"We have been married for 27 years. We have a daughter, Ashlee, 29, who has graced us with two lovely granddaughters that are 2 and 4. Our son Mel III is 24 and is proud to carry on the family name. He has been an integral part of our business for the last 5 years. "   

• Share a couple of interesting facts about yourself.

"Growing up in South Florida my husband and I both have a love for the water and being outdoors. We love football, always proud to sport our colors: fans of the Miami hurricanes and the Miami dolphins (in good times and in bad)."  

• What do you like about where you work?

"My husband and I are co-owners of the SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens County. Providing restoration services when residences and businesses have water and fire damage. Previously in the transportation industry for 30 years, where we provided a service, we understand the importance of relationships. We have owned our SERVPRO franchise for 7 years and have enjoyed establishing roots in the communities that we serve, taking care of people during their difficult times. We go into our customers' homes and businesses, and they become family and friends. "  

• Tell us about your roles with the Chamber.

"Not being from the community, being involved with the Chamber has been a great opportunity to foster relationships business wise and personally, making Laurens County feel like home. And at the same time has educated me about the organizations that service individuals in the Community and allowed me to offer my time and talent to volunteer to help make a difference."

(Kimberly has served as an Ambassador for 6 years, is a Graduate of Leadership Laurens County Class XIX (2014) and has been involved with the Board of Regents ever since, has served on the Events Committee for the past 4 years, serves on the 100 Club Board, and is currently serving on the Chamber Board of Directors. She was awarded Small Business of the Year 2016, Spirit of the Chamber 2015, and Volunteer of the Year 2013.)

• Why you love Laurens County! 

" The people. They believe in and support one another. "

• Anything else you would like to share?

"Being a graduate of Leadership Laurens County, I am truly excited to be part of having our Class project come to fruition. I am currently the Vice Chair for the Family Promise of Laurens County, creating a homeless shelter for families in Laurens County."