More Than Just a Weekend Activity

When people hear the word “volunteering,” they often think of soup kitchens, donation drives, or helping out at church once a month. All of those things are great—and I’ve done my fair share—but for me, volunteerism isn’t just a side activity. It’s a core part of how I live, work, and lead.

I’ve come to see giving back as more than a good deed. It’s a business philosophy. It’s a mindset that shapes the way I treat people, how I make decisions, and how I define success. Over the years, volunteering has helped me become a better leader, a better business owner, and a better person. And I believe it’s something every entrepreneur should make part of their foundation.

Growing Up with Service in Mind

I grew up in Twin Falls, Idaho, in a hardworking family where helping others wasn’t something you talked about—it was just something you did. Whether it was lending a hand on a neighbor’s farm or pitching in at church, I learned early on that community matters. That lesson stuck with me.

As I started my own businesses, including Iron Oaks Custom Homes, I wanted to carry those values into everything I built. I didn’t want to just be successful on paper. I wanted to build companies that had heart—places where service wasn’t an afterthought, but part of the mission.

Leadership Through Service

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about action. And one of the best ways to lead is to serve.

When I volunteer—whether it’s helping organize a community event, mentoring young people, or working with local charities—I’m reminded that leadership starts with humility. You’re not above anyone. You’re not the most important person in the room. You’re part of a team, and your job is to lift others up.

That perspective carries over to how I lead my businesses. I don’t ask my team to do anything I wouldn’t do. I show up early. I stay late when needed. I listen. I pitch in. And I encourage everyone around me to find ways to serve too.

Leaders who understand the value of service are leaders people want to follow. They’re trusted. They’re respected. And they create a culture where people care—not just about the bottom line, but about each other.

Giving Back Builds Community—and Business

Some people separate business from community service, but I’ve found that the two actually go hand in hand. When you give back, you build relationships. You meet people you might not have crossed paths with otherwise. You earn trust. And you show that you’re invested in more than just making money.

Over the years, volunteering has opened doors for me—not because I was looking for business, but because people want to work with those who care. Whether it’s a homeowner choosing us for their custom build or a local vendor partnering with us on a project, those relationships often start with a shared commitment to service.

I’m also proud of the causes we’ve been able to support as a company. From organizing the Ryan Franklin Memorial Golf Tournament to volunteering time and resources for community needs, these efforts have made a real difference—and they’ve brought our team closer together in the process.

Volunteering Teaches Valuable Skills

Running a business requires all kinds of skills—communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and resilience, just to name a few. Volunteering is a great way to build those same skills, often in environments that stretch you in new ways.

I’ve learned to be more patient, more flexible, and more creative through volunteer work. I’ve also learned how to lead without authority, influence without a paycheck, and inspire without incentives.

These are the same skills that make strong leaders. When you volunteer, you’re constantly learning. You’re stepping into new roles. You’re working with people from different backgrounds. And you’re reminded that success isn’t just about what you get, but what you give.

Inspiring a Culture of Service

One of the most rewarding parts of bringing volunteerism into business is watching it catch on. When your team sees you giving back, they’re more likely to do the same. When your clients and partners know you care about the community, they’re more likely to align with your mission.

At Iron Oaks, we encourage our team to find causes they’re passionate about. We support them when they volunteer. We look for projects where we can serve together. And we celebrate the impact we make, no matter how big or small.

That culture of service doesn’t just make us better people—it makes us a stronger, more connected team.

Final Thoughts: Success with Purpose

At the end of the day, I don’t just want to be known for building homes or businesses. I want to be known for building community. For being someone who showed up, who gave back, and who used what he had to make life better for others.

Volunteerism has shaped the way I lead, the way I live, and the way I define success. It’s not about recognition or reward—it’s about living with purpose. And when you lead with a servant’s heart, you create impact that lasts far beyond the workplace.

So if you’re a business owner, a leader, or someone who simply wants to make a difference, I encourage you to start where you are. Give back. Get involved. Lead through service. It will make you stronger—and it will make your community stronger too.