Community in Action
Keeping Families Cool, Supporting Families Strong: Southern Values Joins Parenting Matters
At Parenting Matters, we know that building strong families takes a community of care. That’s why we are so proud to welcome Southern Values Cooling and Heating as one of our newest Compassionate Company partners.
Chris Powers and his family-owned business have been part of the Parenting Matters family for years, quietly making sure our air conditioning systems are running smoothly. But this year, they decided to take their support a step further—becoming an official partner in our mission to strengthen families and prevent child abuse.
“We’ve always really appreciated what Parenting Matters represents and what you do for the community, particularly for families and children,” Chris shared. “Kids don’t always have a choice in what’s going on around them, so helping them and supporting the work you’re doing felt like the right way for us to give back.”
Unlike larger corporations in the region, Southern Values remains a truly family-run business. When you call their office, Chris’s wife answers the phone, and their sons work alongside him in the field. Their long-time team members have been with them for decades, creating the kind of trust and care that extends to their customers.
“It’s still that family feel,” Chris explained. “We try to treat our customers like family, too. It may mean we don’t get to retire as early as everyone else, but we go to sleep at night knowing we’ve done something we feel good about.”
Living in Florida means families face unique challenges—heat, humidity, and hurricane season. Chris emphasizes the importance of keeping air conditioning units well-maintained, especially when storms put extra stress on systems. “Lightning strikes, power outages, and surges all take a toll on units,” he explained. “Regular maintenance is the best way to keep them running when you need them most.”
For Parenting Matters, partnering with businesses like Southern Values is about more than financial support. It’s about finding community partners who share our vision for stronger families. As Executive Director Katie Becker said, “We really appreciate this partnership. There are some clear shared values here, and that’s what makes this connection so meaningful.”
We’re grateful to Southern Values for their commitment—not only to keeping our community cool, but to lifting up children and families in need.
To learn more about Southern Values Cooling and Heating, visit SouthernValuesAir.com or call (941) 812 – 1571.
Join Us as a Compassionate Company
Southern Values Cooling and Heating is one shining example of how local businesses can make a lasting difference. Parenting Matters invites other community-minded companies to become part of our Compassionate Companies program—an annual sponsorship that shows your support for families all year long.
When you partner with us, you’re not just sponsoring a nonprofit—you’re investing in stronger families, safer children, and a brighter future for our community.
To learn more or schedule a sponsorship meeting, contact Rebekah Prieto at (941) 756 – 3007 ext. 228 or RPrieto@ParentingMattersFL.org.
Together, we can change a child’s tomorrow by investing in parents today.
