A message from Paul Reilly to Raymond James associates and advisors
Following the devastation from Hurricane Ian, Raymond James, the leadership team, advisors, and associates were able to donate more than $900,000 and truck loads of supplies.
For people on the outside looking in, it can sometimes be difficult to convey what it truly means to be part of the Raymond James family. For us, it shows up in so many ways: It’s how we work together. How we care for clients, our communities and each other. It’s the way we live out our people-based values. It’s how, during the most challenging of times, we band together even more – united by our dedication to serving clients, while also going the extra mile to serve one another.
Reflecting on the last week, and as we continue to see the devastation left behind by Hurricane Ian, I’m humbled by the resilience of our associates, advisors and community there. Thankfully, our Raymond James family members in affected areas have confirmed their safety – which has continued to be our first priority. Understanding the long road ahead for many, I’m proud that Raymond James, our leadership team, advisors and associates were able to donate over $900,000 so far, including a $500,000 company pledge to community relief organizations including the Red Cross and the Florida Disaster Fund, as well as $315,000 in personal donations from the Executive Committee and Board of Directors to Friends of Raymond James. How we show up for one another is remarkable.
The outpouring of care, compassion and support from Raymond James advisors, associates, clients and partners across the country has been incredible to witness – from checking on each other, to donating funds, to filling two semitrucks full of donated supplies bound for our Fort Myers’ branch supply station. We’ve heard several heartwarming stories from recipients of these essential supplies, which in itself shows how your collective efforts and generosity have truly made a difference for those who need it most.
I continue to be amazed by the support leading up to, during and after the storm. I want to extend a special thank you to the associates who worked diligently to continue delivering on our Service 1st promise amid the circumstances. Notably, I’d like to thank associates in our other corporate locations, including Memphis, Southfield, Detroit and Denver, who covered for co-workers and pitched in where they could, and advisors throughout the country for their patience and understanding as our Florida residents focused on the storm and their safety.
As we returned, it was great to see the ways everyone was checking in with each other – not only for each other’s safety and property, but also for their mental health and well-being. And a special thanks to “RJ” – Raymond James’ adopted guide dog in training with Southeastern Guide Dogs – for providing some emotional support to the 100-plus associates who showed up for a quick mental health break this week. Following what continues to be a difficult time for many, please remember to take advantage of the numerous mental health resources available to you from the firm.
Finally, to help those most impacted, qualifying associates in the hardest-hit Florida counties are receiving a $500 Hurricane Relief Award to assist with storm-related expenses. In addition, those associates are also eligible for three extra days of award time as they manage recovery efforts.
You’ve proven time and time again what it means to be a part of Raymond James, and I couldn’t be prouder to work alongside associates and advisors like you.
Thank you,
Paul C. Reilly
CEO and Chair
Raymond James Financial