Compassion in the face of disaster 

Find out how the firm and our advisors are supporting communities in need.

A volunteer clears debris left by derecho

On Monday, August 10, a derecho traveling an estimated 770 miles over the course of 14 hours left significant damage throughout the Midwest. Homes were destroyed, buildings were damaged and more than a million people were left without power. Defined by NOAA as a “widespread, long-lived windstorm that is associated with a band of rapidly moving showers or thunderstorms,” the derecho devastated communities and displaced thousands of people. 

During times like these, Raymond James advisors seek out ways to give back to those who need it the most. Chad Andrews, branch manager at Raymond James in Coralville, Iowa, quickly stepped up to clear debris and begin the process of helping the community recover. Traveling from Coralville to Cedar Rapids, Chad volunteered many days with a chain saw in hand, assisting those who suffered destruction from this unprecedented storm. 

“This disaster is much larger than the floods of 2008 that impacted the area,” said Chad. The damage is widespread and affecting all of Cedar Rapids and the surrounding communities.” In addition to lending a hand, Chad spent time connecting with leaders in the community to understand how organizations were stepping up to support those affected by the derecho. 

A large tree in front of a home is uprooted from the storm

Jeremy James, principal with James Investment Group, who also spent many days helping families in Cedar Rapids clear debris, was quick to advocate for those in his community, shining a light on the devastation to colleagues at the Raymond James corporate offices in St. Petersburg, Florida. 

“I’ve never seen anything like it,” said James. “This storm came with only a 30-minute warning and left Iowans completely unprepared for the damage it left.”  

These stories of compassion for the community helped reinforce the decision for Raymond James to support those impacted by the derecho. Continuing the firm’s commitment to give back to communities in which we live and work, Raymond James will contribute $100,000 to the American Red Cross to support its work in Iowa and Illinois providing meals, overnight shelter, hotel stays and relief items. 

Raymond James Cares

Together, we make a difference to build, strengthen and grow our communities. To learn more about the firm’s corporate philanthropy, click here.

To see how associates give back all year long, follow Raymond James on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.