When Crisis Brings Out the Best in People
I had been working with Study Groups for five years when Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans. One of my members lived in the area and was facing devastation to his property, his business, and his employees’ lives. His Study Group sprang into action—delivering supplies, equipment, and even drivers from across the U.S.—without a second thought.
That was the first time I truly saw the power of these connections in action. Not only did our member find relief in a time of crisis, but his peers experienced the joy of helping and standing beside him. I was, and still am, deeply proud to be part of something like this.
Accountability and Care in Action
Over 25 years, I’ve attended countless Study Group meetings. In one, a member struggling to keep his business afloat came with increasingly bad news each session. Finally, his group lovingly confronted him—urging him to make changes and offering to visit his company to help identify solutions.
This wasn’t a “feel-good” moment or empty encouragement. It was a committed pursuit of his success and well-being—a hallmark of the Study Groups way.
Support That Runs Deep
The bonds built within a Study Group go far beyond professional advice. They show up emotionally, intellectually, and even financially. When one member hit a rough patch, his group voted to cover his meeting expenses for a time, giving him the breathing room he needed. Their generosity spoke volumes about the level of trust and respect these relationships create over time.
A Family That Grows Together
Study Groups has always been a place where families are welcome. Many groups choose to include spouses and children in their gatherings, creating friendships that last for generations. My own kids grew up surrounded by this extended family—traveling, meeting wonderful people, and making memories that shaped their lives.
We’ll never forget moments like Francis Bologna carrying my kids on his shoulders at the Nelson property or Maui Oil’s Alec McBarnet playing volleyball with them in Idaho. That’s what makes Study Groups special—it’s not just business, it’s belonging.
