Ed first met Alexis (“Lexi”) Kaiser’s parents through booster club connections. Lexi’s father, Chip, was the go-to person for team shirts and spirit wear. That relationship opened the door to learning about the Foundation, which has been supporting children with disabilities for 20 years and recently surpassed a major milestone: more than $1 million raised to help fund programs and partner organizations in the community.

For years, Ed participated in the Foundation’s annual golf fundraiser, Lexi’s Game, and saw firsthand how thoughtfully the event is run, and how strongly the community shows up for the Kaiser family. “It just really tugged on my heartstrings,” Ed shared, describing how the experience motivated him to go beyond attending and start helping with the event itself.

That desire to do more sparked a new tradition. Now in its third year, Ed hosts a poker tournament (LINK TO: https://firstservice.volunteerhub.com/vv2/event/a4af4fca-8c2e-4ceb-9ff7-049666eee893) to raise additional funds for the Alexis Kaiser Foundation. The goal isn’t just to gather poker players, it’s to create an inclusive event where anyone can come, socialize, meet Lexi and her family, and support the cause. Along with the tournament, the evening features food and drinks, raffles, and silent auctions in atmosphere designed to feel welcoming while rallying around a meaningful mission. This year’s tournament will be held on Saturday, April 25 at the Governor’s Gun Club in Kennesaw, GA.

One of the things Ed values most is the Foundation’s direct impact. Proceeds support organizations including Jacob’s Ladder, Young Life, Next Step, Focus, and LecoTech (among others). “What’s great about the Alexis Kaiser Foundation is they give back,” Ed said, emphasizing that every dollar raised is intended to strengthen resources, opportunities, and experiences for children with disabilities.

At the center of it all is Lexi herself. Lexi has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, but Ed describes her as a source of steady motivation. She’s bubbly, charismatic, and deeply connected to her family (she’s a triplet). She keeps up with siblings’ school and sports, and she’s active in wheelchair sports, including baseball and basketball. “She certainly doesn’t let anything stop her,” Ed said. “Lexi motivates me.”

Ed also pointed to the broader CertaPro culture as a reason these efforts thrive. He described a network of franchise owners who support one another, by sharing ideas, helping solve problems, and celebrating wins together. He also noted corporate support that extends all the way to leadership, including plans for CEO Mike Stone to attend the event, a gesture Ed says “speaks volumes” about how seriously the organization takes community involvement.

Whether it’s helping a customer feel comfortable during a disruptive home project or showing up for families beyond the jobsite, Ed’s story is a reminder that community impact is built one relationship at a time. We are proud to feature Ed as one of our People of Purpose. To hear more from Ed, please visit (INSERT VIDEO LINK WHEN READY).

Ed’s work with the Alexis Kaiser Foundation has inspired him to engage in other programs that support those with developmental disabilities. His next project will be providing painting services for The Sanctuary of North Georgia, a community-focused, independent living program that supports adults with developmental disabilities. Through The Sanctuary, residents are empowered to make decisions affecting all aspects of their lives. They are offered job opportunities and provided with social outings and recreational experiences in a faith-based environment. To learn more or volunteer, visit sanctuaryofng.org.

Visit Alexis Kaiser Foundation to learn more about or support an upcoming event.