West Pasco Pinellas Business Association WPBA Blog

WPBA Partner Spotlight: Dani Giroux | Runaways Animal Rescue

Sheri Horvath — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:56:19 GMT

Danielle “Dani” Giroux is doing the kind of work that most people don’t see, but that changes lives every single day. Through Runaways Animal Rescue, Dani leads a no-kill rescue and adoption center serving Pasco County and the greater Tampa Bay area, focused on rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals that often have nowhere else to go.

With 15 years in the industry and the rescue officially opening in 2020, Dani and her team have already saved over 5,000 animals. Many of those cases are the ones others can’t take on, such as neonatal kittens, special needs animals, and pets requiring significant medical care. Beyond the numbers, what stands out most is the community that has formed around this mission. Volunteers, fosters, staff, and supporters all showing up with the same goal of giving these animals a real second chance.

That impact continues to grow.

One of Dani’s most meaningful recent wins was opening their spay and neuter clinic. In less than a year, they have already fixed over 1,000 community cats through their TNVR (trap, neuter, vaccinate, release) program. That is thousands of future animals spared from homelessness, and a major step forward for the community.

Dani with a handsome rescue pup (left) and her team of difference-makers out at community festivals

The reality behind this work is not always easy. The need is constant, and the resources are not unlimited. As a nonprofit that relies entirely on donations and community support, Dani and her team are always balancing how to help more animals with the space, funding, and foster homes available. It is a challenge, but one that continues to push growth, innovation, and deeper community involvement.

That is where WPBA has played a meaningful role.

Through WPBA, Dani has built connections with local business owners and community leaders who genuinely care about the mission. Those relationships have led to increased awareness, donations, partnerships, and a stronger network of support. For a nonprofit, that kind of visibility and connection is everything.

Dani leads with passion and heart, educating WPBA Partners about the incredible work she does

And the ripple effect is real.

More people learning about the rescue means more volunteers, more fosters, more adopters, and more animals saved. It means expanding programs like their community pet food bank and TNVR efforts. It means being a resource not just for animals, but for the people who love them.

What Dani loves most about WPBA is that shared sense of purpose. Being surrounded by people who want to make a positive impact creates an environment where collaboration happens naturally and support runs deep.

Dani speaks to WPBA Partners at our Community Mixer (left), Community Breakfast (middle), and during a tour of her rescue (right)

She also hopes more people understand what animal rescue truly involves. It is not just playing with puppies and kittens. It is medical care, problem solving, long days, and difficult decisions. It takes time, resources, and a community willing to step in and help. Rescue is not a solo effort. It takes a village.

Dani and the team at Runaways Animal Rescue are saving lives every day

And Dani has certainly done her part. She has personally fostered over 1,000 cats and kittens, a number that speaks to both her commitment and her heart for this work.

Through grit, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to animals in need, Dani is creating real change in our community. And because of her, thousands of animals have been given the chance to live safe, healthy, and loved lives.

Connect with Dani here...

WPBA Partner Spotlight: Lisa Garwood | Achieva Credit Union - NPR Branch

Sheri Horvath — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:59:41 GMT

Lisa Garwood brings more than 25 years of experience in the financial industry, and with it, a level of care and consistency that people remember. At Achieva Credit Union, Lisa leads a highly successful branch with a focus that goes far beyond transactions. Her work centers on helping people better understand their money, make confident decisions, and build a stronger financial future.

At the heart of what Lisa does is education. She is passionate about teaching budgeting, money management, and financial literacy in a way that feels approachable and practical. Lisa believes that when people understand their finances, everything else in life becomes a little more manageable.

That impact is showing up in real results. Lisa and her team recently celebrated a record-breaking month at their branch, a reflection of both strong leadership and the trust she has built within the community.

Lisa enjoys WPBA events. She is pictured here at WPBA's Community Breakfast and Partner Awards (left), and at WPBA's Bowling 4 Boobs cancer fundraiser, supported by Achieva Credit Union

Like many businesses, one of the early challenges was simple awareness. People didn’t always know they were there. That began to shift through consistent networking and showing up in the community, especially through WPBA.

As a long-time WPBA Partner and an active member of the Monday Lunch Focus Group in New Port Richey, Lisa has built relationships that extend beyond business. She is someone people genuinely enjoy being around. She brings energy, warmth, and a sense of fun into the room, while also being someone others trust and turn to when it matters.

Through WPBA, Lisa has been able to grow her network, strengthen relationships, and connect with people who know, like, and trust her. And that trust has become the foundation of her business. When people work with Lisa, they know they are in good hands.

What she loves most about WPBA is the opportunity to support others while building meaningful, lasting relationships. There is a shared commitment to showing up for the community, and Lisa lives that out in the way she pours into the people around her.

Lisa is an active WPBA Partner and participates in Monday Lunch Focus Group in NPR (left), and is a long-time WPBA supporter

She also hopes more people understand that Achieva Credit Union is a not-for-profit organization with a mission rooted in education and service. Their goal is not just to provide financial services, but to equip individuals and families with the knowledge they need to succeed.

And in case you didn’t know, Lisa has a fun side too. Not only is she always smiling and laughing, but Lisa shared that she got her first tattoo in her 50s, proving it’s never too late to try something new.

Lisa continues to make a meaningful impact in both her industry and our community through leadership, consistency, and a genuine commitment to helping others.

We are grateful for her partnership and the way she shows up for WPBA every single week.

Connect with Lisa here...

WPBA Partner Spotlight: Ernie Black | Socially Funded Silent Auctions

Sheri Horvath — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 15:56:48 GMT

Ernie Black, also known to many as “The Silent Auction Guy,” has built a business around helping others raise more, reach further, and make a bigger impact. Through Socially Funded, Ernie provides certified and authenticated auction items to local charity and foundation events, creating opportunities for organizations to generate additional funds without taking on additional cost or risk.

For the past six years, Ernie has focused on building a model that is simple and effective. Socially Funded operates on a consignment basis, meaning there is no upfront cost to the organization. The result is a true win-win. Foundations gain access to a wide variety of sports, music, cinema, and Americana items that drive engagement and bidding, while keeping their focus on their mission, where it belongs.

Socially Funded silent auction at WPBA's Bowling 4 Boobs cancer fundraiser

What Ernie is most proud of right now is the ability to consistently retain events year after year. That kind of trust does not happen by accident. It comes from delivering value, showing up, and making sure every event is better than the last. It has also opened the door to new relationships and opportunities through the connections built at each event.

Within WPBA, Ernie has become a familiar and trusted presence, especially at two of our most meaningful fundraisers, WPBA's Bowling 4 Boobs cancer fundraiser, and WPBA's How The Grinch Saved Christmas holiday fundraiser. His contributions behind the scenes have helped elevate our auctions, bringing in items that spark excitement, increase participation, and ultimately drive more dollars back into the community.

That impact adds up in a big way.

Event attendees excitedly bid on silent auction items provided by Socially Funded at WPBA's How The Grinch Saved Christmas holiday fundraiser

Like many businesses, one of the early challenges was simply helping people understand the value of the service. Once that clicked, everything changed. Through WPBA, Ernie has been able to build relationships, expand his network, and consistently get in front of the right rooms where his work speaks for itself.

Each event creates momentum. New partnerships form. New opportunities open. And more organizations are able to benefit from additional funds they may not have otherwise generated.

What Ernie appreciates most about WPBA is the people. There is a willingness here to collaborate, to listen, and to trust each other in pursuit of a shared goal. That environment allows Socially Funded to step in, do what they do best, and contribute to something bigger than any one business.

He also hopes more organizations understand just how accessible this type of fundraising support can be. Socially Funded is not an added expense. It is an opportunity. A way to enhance an event, increase revenue, and extend the reach of a nonprofit’s mission without adding financial strain.

At the end of the day, Ernie’s work is about impact. Every item placed, every bid made, and every dollar raised all circles back to helping organizations serve their communities in a bigger way.

And that is exactly the kind of partner we are grateful to have.

Connect with Ernie here...

WPBA Partner Spotlight: Chris Nelson | West Pasco Girls Fastpitch Softball Association

Sheri Horvath — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:59:46 GMT

Chris Nelson is helping shape more than softball players. Through the West Pasco Girls Fastpitch Softball Association, he is part of a mission that develops confident, resilient young women both on and off the field. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving girls ages 4–19, the league provides a place where athletes learn teamwork, accountability, and leadership in an environment rooted in support and community.

For more than 30 years, the league has been a steady presence in West Pasco, giving generations of girls the opportunity to grow through sport. What stands out most right now is the role the organization plays as a true community pillar. Aside from the games and seasons, the league helps girls build character, create friendships, and gives these young athletes the confidence to carry themselves forward in life.

That impact extends far beyond the field. The league is committed to showing up for the community through volunteer work, local partnerships, and hosting major tournaments that bring families and visitors into the area. Those events create meaningful economic impact for local businesses while also putting West Pasco on the map in a powerful way.

Chris is pictured with his daughter (left) and several of the league's youth athletes during season games.

A recent win worth celebrating is a big one. The league secured the bid to host the 2026 Dixie Softball World Series for the first time in nearly 30 years, along with the 2027 State Tournament. These milestones reflect years of dedication from volunteers, families, and supporters. They also create an opportunity to showcase the strength of this program while delivering unforgettable experiences for the athletes involved.

Like many nonprofit organizations, there was a time when financial uncertainty made it difficult to plan ahead or consistently deliver the experience these players deserved. Limited awareness and sponsorship created ongoing challenges. That began to shift after joining WPBA.

Through WPBA, meaningful relationships with local businesses turned into real partnership. Not just sponsorships, but people showing up. Businesses stepped in with financial support, volunteered their time, attended events, and became part of the league’s story. That consistency created stability, strengthened programs, and allowed the organization to grow with confidence.

That growth has had a direct ripple effect. More resources mean better opportunities for players. More support means every athlete feels seen, valued, and encouraged. And ultimately, that creates stronger young women and a stronger community.

Chris is pictured coaching his daughter (center) and one of the youth league's teams poses for a team photo

What stands out to Chris most about WPBA is the sense of shared purpose. These relationships go beyond business. They create a network of people who genuinely care about investing in youth, families, and the future of the community. It is partnership in the truest sense.

Chris also hopes more people understand the importance of supporting girls’ youth sports. Too often, these programs are treated as secondary. Girls fastpitch softball offers powerful opportunities to build confidence, leadership, and resilience. These athletes deserve equal access, recognition, and support, and the community plays a critical role in making that happen.

And on a lighter note, there is a fun side to Chris that many may not expect. He is a big Disney fan, earned the nickname “Goofy” growing up, and has quite the collection of Goofy memorabilia to prove it.

Through leadership, partnership, and a deep commitment to the next generation, Chris and the West Pasco Girls Fastpitch Softball Association are building something that lasts well beyond the game. And that is the kind of impact that matters.

Connect with Chris here...

WPBA | Seas the Day Cruise to Cozumel, Mexico | February 2026

Sheri Horvath — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 17:10:25 GMT

In February 2026, a group of WPBA partners, spouses, and family members set sail together on our first Seas the Day Cruise, and it truly lived up to its name.

One of the first pleasant surprises was just how easy the experience was from the very beginning. The Port of Tampa made parking, navigation, and getting to the terminal incredibly simple. Many cruisers commented on how much easier cruise travel has become. With the Royal Caribbean app, streamlined security, and automated check-in, the days of standing in long bag-check lines are largely behind us. Within what felt like minutes, we were on board and ready to begin the adventure.

Once aboard Royal Caribbean’s Enchantment of the Seas, the crew welcomed us warmly and the vacation began almost immediately. WPBA partners - dressed in their coordinating WPBA cruise T-Shirts - quickly claimed a sunny spot near the pool bar where we could relax, enjoy the February breeze, and catch up with one another before the ship set sail.

Later that afternoon, we gathered in one of the ship’s lounges for pre-dinner cocktails and our sail-away celebration. To break the ice, we played a fun game to learn more about one another — a perfect way to kick off a trip designed around connection. Soon after, we stepped out on deck as the ship passed beneath the Sunshine Skyway Bridge at sunset. Watching the massive ship glide under the bridge while the sky turned shades of orange and pink was truly magical.

One of the most meaningful aspects of this trip was that many partners brought their spouses, and some even brought their families. Meeting the people behind the partners — the families who support their businesses and lives — was a highlight for many who sailed. It added a deeper layer of connection to the experience.

That evening we enjoyed our first dinner together in the main dining room, and it was a wonderful start to the cruise. Our wait staff was exceptional and incredibly attentive. Our group was seated across four nearby tables, which allowed everyone to mingle, laugh, and get to know one another better throughout the evening.

The next morning brought our first full sea day, which meant we were sailing all day with no port stops. The ocean was calm, the weather was beautiful, and the deck was buzzing with activity.

From 9:00 AM to noon we gathered in a private conference space for a session we affectionately called “Get Ship Done.” Everyone arrived with a list of tasks they had been putting off and committed to tackling them together. The room was full of laptops, conversation, laughter, productivity, and the occasional goofy moment. It was amazing how much people accomplished in just a few hours.

Once our work session wrapped up, the rest of the day was completely open for everyone to enjoy the ship however they wished. Some partners relaxed by the pool deck while others soaked up the quiet sunshine on the upper decks. A few took in trivia games or shows, others visited the fitness center to balance out the sprawling buffet and generous desserts, and a handful tried their luck in the casino.

The only rule of the day was simple: have fun.

As evening approached, many gathered again in the dining room for dinner, with some choosing to sit at different tables than the night before to meet even more people. Others decided to try one of the ship’s signature restaurants, Chops Grille, a guest-favorite steakhouse that we highly recommend for anyone cruising with Royal Caribbean.

Later that evening the ship came alive with entertainment. Some partners attended the theater productions and late-night comedy show, while others made their way to the dance floor at Silent Disco or enjoyed the Latin rhythms in Boleros Lounge. As it turns out, WPBA partners have some impressive dance moves.

Day three brought us to Cozumel, Mexico, where everyone set off to create their own adventure. Cozumel truly offers something for everyone. Some partners chose adrenaline-filled ATV adventures while others explored Mayan history at the ruins of Tulum. Several couples snorkeled in the crystal-clear waters, and two couples participated in a traditional Mexican cooking class complete with tequila tasting.

Many cruisers also spent time browsing the local shops and sampling the local cuisine while walking back toward the port. No matter what everyone chose to do, the common theme was simple: everyone had a fantastic day in Mexico.

That evening the group reunited once again for dinner in the dining room before heading to a magic show that was both entertaining and impressive. A few lucky partners even found their way back to the casino and walked away with some winnings.

Our fourth day brought another beautiful sea day as we sailed back toward Tampa. From 9:00 AM to noon we gathered again for our second Get Ship Done session, which naturally evolved into something even more special — a floating WPBA focus group.

Think of it as WPBA’s weekly focus group meeting… at sea.

We read the WPBA mission statement, shared introductions, and talked about our individual experiences growing within the network. As the conversation unfolded, we discovered shared experiences, learned from one another, and felt the connections between us deepen. It was one of the most meaningful moments of the trip.

Later that afternoon the group gathered again — this time in the theater — to cheer on two WPBA partners who had been selected to participate in the ship’s Love and Marriage Game Show. The show features couples married for different lengths of time, putting them to the test to see how well they truly know each other.

Our partners represented the 10–20 year marriage category, and they absolutely stole the show. Not only did they prove they know a lot about each other, they also proved they’re still very much in love.

Later, many of us met at the Schooner Bar for pre-dinner cocktails and relaxed conversation before heading to our final dinner together.

That last evening in the dining room was unforgettable. In a celebration of the week, the entire kitchen and dining team — chefs, sous chefs, line cooks, pastry chefs, and service staff — burst into song and dance as they paraded through the dining room entertaining guests. It ended with a standing ovation and deep appreciation for the hardworking crew who deliver a level of hospitality that truly feels unmatched.

The next morning we woke to find the ship docked safely back in the Port of Tampa. One of the thoughtful decisions in planning the cruise was sailing Thursday through Monday, which minimized the amount of time partners needed to be away from their offices. In fact, many cruisers were back at their desks Monday morning before 9 AM — perhaps with a little more sunshine on their skin and a few extra dessert pounds to prove they had a good time.

This incredible experience would not have been possible without Chelsey McManus Travel, who coordinated every detail and ensured our group had a seamless and memorable trip. Through Chelsey’s partnership with Royal Caribbean, a portion of onboard credits and travel incentives were generously redirected back to WPBA, creating an additional benefit for the organization and our community work.

It was truly special to see partners connect outside of the usual meeting rooms and networking events — laughing together, working together, and building friendships that will continue long after the ship returned to port.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who sailed with us and helped make this first Seas the Day Cruise such a success.

And the best part?

We’re already planning the next one. Stay tuned for more details!

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Watch the video recap of WPBA's Seas The Day Cruise 2026 here

Connect with Chelsey McManus Travel to plan your next group trip!

WPBA Partner Spotlight: Janell Poulette | Florida Audiology Associates

Sheri Horvath — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 17:53:29 GMT

Janell Poulette is passionate about helping people stay connected to sound, to life, and to each other. At Florida Audiology Associates, Janell and her team provide hearing tests, hearing aid fittings and repairs, and ear wax cleanings, all with the bigger goal of helping patients understand how hearing health affects overall health.

Janell has been in the field for three years alongside Dr. Leigh Smith who brings more than a decade of experience. What she loves most about their work is educating patients about the powerful connection between hearing, brain health, balance, and social engagement. Hearing aids aren’t just for seniors - they’re for anyone experiencing hearing loss who wants to stay sharp, steady, and socially connected.

Janell enjoys educating the public about hearing loss treatment and prevention, and routinely educates fellow WPBA Partners.

One recent win that meant a great deal to Janell involved a patient in his 50s who qualified for a free set of hearing aids through Vocational Rehab after being referred by their office. What they didn’t initially realize was that the same program would also support him in returning to school to become a welder. Watching that opportunity unfold and knowing they helped open that door was a moment worth celebrating.

Janell believes there’s still a stigma around hearing aids: that they’re bulky, squeal, and are only for older adults. She’s on a mission to change that narrative. Modern hearing technology is discreet and highly effective, and untreated hearing loss is strongly linked to cognitive decline and dementia. Her goal is to help people stay connected longer and avoid the isolation that can come with hearing challenges.

Janell is an active WPBA Partner, regularly attending community events, facility tours and volunteer service projects.

Through WPBA, Janell has been able to share more about hearing health with fellow partners, equipping them to recognize the signs of hearing loss in friends, family, and clients. Several partners have even come in for hearing tests themselves and now confidently share their experiences with others. That ripple effect has increased awareness throughout the community and strengthened trust in having a local, accessible expert.

What Janell loves most about WPBA is the relationships. These aren’t just fellow business owners - they’re friends she trusts and confidently refers to her own circle. That level of connection matters a lot to Janell.

Janell is a leader within the WPBA network and has a seat on its Advisory Board where she passionately volunteers her time and knowledge to educate WPBA Partners.

She also hopes more people understand that many physicians receive limited audiology training in medical school. When hearing concerns arise, seeing an audiology specialist ensures the best advice and care.

As a true local, Janell grew up in New Port Richey and attended several area schools before graduating from River Ridge High School. Moving through different schools during those formative years shaped her into the outgoing, friendly person she is today and someone who naturally connects with others and makes them feel comfortable.

Through education, compassion, and trusted expertise, Janell is helping our community hear better, live fuller, and stay connected. We are grateful for her partnership.

Connect With Janell Here...

WPBA Partner Spotlight: Alvin Hagerich | Alvin L. Hagerich CPA

Sheri Horvath — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 17:14:19 GMT

For more than three decades, Alvin Hagerich has been helping individuals and small business owners make sense of their finances and navigate complicated tax situations. Through his firm, Alvin L. Hagerich CPA, he provides tax preparation and tax resolution services with a steady, practical approach shaped by 36 years in accounting and nearly 30 years as a licensed CPA.

At the heart of Alvin’s work is problem-solving. He takes pride in helping people work through difficult situations with the IRS and other creditors — often during some of the most stressful seasons of their lives. For Alvin, success is simple and meaningful: knowing he helped someone find a solution and move forward with greater peace of mind.

One recent moment that stood out was hearing a bankruptcy judge comment in court that his work was thorough and his fees were reasonable. For Alvin, that kind of professional respect speaks volumes about the care and integrity he brings to every client he serves.

Alvin shares his expertise on WPBA's financial professionals panel discussion

When Alvin joined WPBA, he was looking for opportunities to meet new people and build relationships within the local business community. Through his focus group and WPBA events, he’s developed connections that have opened the door to new referrals and opportunities to serve others. He especially enjoys the camaraderie of his focus group and values being part of a network that combines business growth with service to the community.

Alvin enjoys his Tuesday Morning Trinity focus group

What Alvin appreciates most about WPBA is the people. He finds it is a group that genuinely works to help community members who need support. Being part of an organization that connects businesses while making a real difference locally is something he finds especially meaningful.

Alvin is the current (2025-2026) president of Hudson Rotary Club, proudly serving in his community

After decades in the profession, Alvin remains focused on what matters most: helping people solve problems, understand their options, and move forward with confidence. Through steady guidance and practical expertise, he continues to be a trusted resource for individuals and small businesses alike.

Connect with Alvin here...

WPBA Partner Spotlight: Dustin Bernhard | DNR Pest Control

Sheri Horvath — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 16:45:01 GMT

Dustin Bernhard knows pest control isn’t just about spraying and treating - it’s about protecting homes and giving families peace of mind. As one of the owners of DNR Pest Control, a local family-owned business serving Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Hernando counties, Dustin helps provide residential and commercial pest control services including general pest control, rodent exclusion, termite prevention and treatment, new construction termite services, and WDO inspections. Every consultation is free, with the goal of helping customers find the right solution at a price that works for them.

Dustin has worked in the pest control industry for more than 15 years and helped launch DNR Pest Control in the winter of 2023. What he’s most proud of is leaving every job with customers satisfied and confident in the service they received. Watching the business grow, through both new customers and a growing team, has been especially meaningful along the way.

Education is a big part of Dustin’s approach. He enjoys helping homeowners understand the pests common to Florida and how early identification can prevent costly damage and unnecessary stress - especially when it comes to termites. His goal is to help customers stay ahead of problems, not just react to them.

When Dustin first joined WPBA, he was working to build a small customer base and establish the business locally. Through focus groups, events, and consistent networking, he built relationships that helped DNR Pest Control grow into what it is today. Referrals, sponsorships, and personal connections have played a major role, and many WPBA partners are now loyal customers, which is something Dustin sees as a clear sign that the business is making a positive impact.

Dustin in the DNR spirit at WPBA events and working in the community

What Dustin appreciates most about WPBA is the organization’s commitment to helping people in difficult times. Being part of a group that serves the community while supporting local businesses is something he values deeply.

Dustin also hopes more people understand how important preventative pest control is in Florida. Staying ahead of pest issues can save homeowners significant money and stress over time, and regular management is one of the best ways to protect a home.

One recent milestone worth celebrating was a personal one. Dustin welcomed the newest member of the Bernhard family, his son Owen.

Dustin and the DNR team having fun and making an impact at WPBA events

Outside of work, Dustin is a motorcycle enthusiast who feels most at home on two wheels, whether on the road or riding dirt.

Through steady growth, strong relationships, and a commitment to serving customers well, Dustin continues to help build a business focused on protecting homes and supporting the community it serves.

Connect with Dustin here...

WPBA Partner Spotlight: Jennifer Fleming | Beauty Aesthetics

Sheri Horvath — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 16:16:00 GMT

Jennifer Fleming brings nearly two decades of healthcare experience to her work as the owner of Beauty Aesthetics, a Family Nurse Practitioner–owned medical aesthetics and wellness practice in Lutz, FL. Her background spans medical-surgical nursing, wound care, dermatology, and urgent care; which are all experiences that shaped the practice she leads today. At Beauty Aesthetics, safety, education, and thoughtful care come first. Treatments are personalized and conservative, designed to enhance what’s already there; never overdone, always authentic.

What Jennifer is most proud of is the trust she has built within the community. Her patients know she will recommend what is right for them, not simply what is trending, and that integrity guides every consultation. Recently, she’s celebrated a steady increase in referrals from happy clients — something she sees as the highest compliment and a sign that people truly believe in the care they receive.

Jennifer consults happy clients at Beauty Aesthetics

Jennifer hopes her business continues to empower people to feel confident, informed, and supported. She believes that when people feel comfortable in their own skin, it changes how they show up in the world. Through WPBA, she’s been able to extend that impact beyond her practice by participating in local events and charitable initiatives alongside partners who share the same heart for the community.

Jennifer and her incredible team at Beauty Aesthetics

When Jennifer joined WPBA, she was looking for more than visibility. She wanted genuine connections and a place to be involved beyond online searches and marketing. WPBA has helped strengthen existing relationships while opening the door to new ones, creating a support system where partners truly show up for one another. That network has allowed her business to grow in a way that feels aligned instead of overwhelming, while giving her more opportunities to give back locally.

Jennifer and fellow WPBA partners gather at the network's social and charitable events

Jennifer hopes more people understand that medical aesthetics is the practice of medicine. Behind every treatment is a deep understanding of anatomy, long-term skin health, and the aging process. The goal isn’t to change faces - it’s refinement, balance, and helping people look like themselves at their best.

Jennifer consults happy clients at Beauty Aesthetics

Beauty Aesthetics was shaped by Jennifer’s personal experiences as much as her professional training. She built the kind of practice she wished existed; one rooted in honesty, education, and thoughtful care.

And at the heart of it all is a simple mission: helping people feel confident in who they are and supported in the process.

Connect With Jennifer here

WPBA Partner Spotlight: Venessa Finazzo | REALTOR® | Berkshire Hathaway

Sheri Horvath — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 16:36:01 GMT

For the past 10 years, Venessa Finazzo has built her real estate career around one core principle: trust. As a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway, she considers it a privilege to walk alongside clients during one of the biggest financial and emotional milestones of their lives. The achievement she’s proudest of isn’t just production numbers. It’s the confidence families place in her to guide them with clarity, honesty, and care.

Venessa credits her success to faith, perseverance, and a deep commitment to service. Over the years, she has been recognized repeatedly as a top agent and top producer, with awards that reflect not only strong results but exceptional customer service. For her, real estate is about raising the standard. She aims to be transparent, knowledgeable, and relationship-driven while helping families plant roots, build equity, and create generational wealth that lasts far beyond a single transaction.

Venessa is pictured volunteering and serving her clients

One story that captures her impact perfectly involves a first-time buyer who believed homeownership was financially out of reach. Through partnership with The Mortgage Firm Trinity and a lot of persistence, Venessa helped connect her with resources that secured a $50,000 Pasco County grant for down payment and closing costs. That client didn’t just buy a house. She gained stability, ownership, and a future she didn’t think was possible.

WPBA has strengthened Venessa’s ability to serve her clients even further. She values the trusted network of partners she can confidently recommend, especially for families relocating from out of state who need reliable connections for every aspect of their new lives. Just as important is the shared spirit of generosity. She deeply connects with WPBA’s culture of giving back and finds energy in partnering with others who are equally committed to lifting the community. In her words, the organization blends impact with fun, and that balance matters.

Venessa also hopes more people understand the true scope of her industry. Real estate isn’t just opening doors and filling out paperwork. Behind every closing is strategy, negotiation, legal protection, market expertise, and constant communication. Her role is to safeguard her clients’ interests and guide them through complex decisions with confidence and peace of mind.

And one fun fact that surprises people: she doesn’t drink coffee and doesn’t like chocolate, which might be the boldest confession in WPBA history.

Through faith, service, and an unwavering focus on relationships, Venessa continues helping families build foundations for the future and strengthening the community one home at a time.

Connect with Venessa here...

WPBA Partner Spotlight: Kelly McCarthy | Ignite Dance Company

Sheri Horvath — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 12:54:21 GMT

Kelly McCarthy has spent her life in motion. With 36 years of teaching and nearly 30 years as a studio owner, she’s built Ignite Dance Company into a full dance training facility serving ages 2 through adult, plus a thriving summer camp program. And she’s not slowing down. Her second location opens this February, expanding her vision into a space that will offer dance classes for children and adults while also serving as a community hub for birthday parties, glow dance events, and corporate and private celebrations.

Her studio has recently received the ADCC Studio of Excellence Award twice, a national recognition that reflects the standard she holds herself and her dancers to every day. For Kelly, excellence isn’t about trophies. It’s about confidence, discipline, and helping young people grow into strong future leaders.

Kelly McCarthy with Ignite dancers

Before joining WPBA, Kelly says networking often felt isolating. She had been active in the community for years, but lacked the kind of referral support and collaboration that helps a small business truly thrive. That changed when she found WPBA. Today she describes it as a real support system. She sees other WPBA partners referring her business and showing up strong to support her events. WPBA partners take classes, donate to her fundraisers, and volunteer their time. They don’t just network with her. They stand behind her mission.

That support has created a ripple effect. Through the relationships she’s built, Kelly has been able to expand scholarships for underprivileged children and donate her own time to support other partners and their causes. Her goal moving forward is to collaborate with more children’s organizations so dance can reach kids who might never otherwise have the opportunity.

Kelly McCarthy is always cheerful at Ignite and WPBA events

She’s also passionate about changing perceptions of her industry. Dance can sometimes be provocative and carry misconceptions, but Kelly is firm about her standards. Every class is age appropriate and designed to protect children while building confidence and leadership skills. Safety and empowerment come first. Always.

What surprises people most about Kelly is that outside of the studio, she is a Halloween and roller coaster fanatic. High energy clearly isn’t just part of the job. It’s part of who she is.

When asked what she values most from WPBA, her answer is simple: the connections. Not just business referrals, but genuine friendships she deeply cherishes. And judging by the way her community rallies around her studio, those connections are helping Kelly do what she does best: lift others higher, one dancer at a time.

Connect with Kelly here...

WPBA Partner Spotlight: Nicole Atwood | Beachy Keen Bookkeeping

Sheri Horvath — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 21:25:41 GMT

After 10 years in the bookkeeping industry and one year running her own business, Nicole Atwood is most proud of something that doesn’t show up on a spreadsheet: the relationships she creates with her clients. Nicole Atwood didn’t build Beachy Keen Bookkeeping around numbers → she built it around trust. She understands that handing over financial information can feel vulnerable, especially for growing businesses. That’s why she leads with education, clear communication, and small steps that help business owners feel confident instead of overwhelmed.

Recently, a client told her, “Even though we met not that long ago, I feel like I know you and trust you.”

That moment captured exactly why Nicole does what she does.

When she first joined WPBA, Nicole was looking for the right network of people who shared her values and were invested in the same community she calls home. What she found was more than simply networking. Through WPBA, she connected with accountants, fellow business owners, and referral partners who understood the importance of collaboration. Those relationships opened doors and created opportunities to help businesses transition smoothly and stay financially organized year-round.

Nicole believes bookkeeping isn’t just something you scramble to finish at tax time. It’s a tool for clarity, planning, and smart growth. When small businesses understand their numbers, they make stronger decisions, create jobs, and strengthen the local economy. Her long-term goal is to build a business that not only supports her clients but gives her the ability to give back freely with time, resources, and care for the community she lives in.

Nicole volunteering and speaking at WPBA events

What she loves most about WPBA is how personal that impact feels. It's not distant charity. It is neighbors helping neighbors, families supporting families, and a network that remembers the individual stories behind the need.

Nicole’s work helps business owners breathe easier. And when local businesses feel steady and confident, the entire community grows stronger.

That ripple effect is exactly what WPBA is built for.

Connect with Nicole here