The passing of each decade brings numerous achievements big and small. However, time seems to have sped up with the light-speed adoption of technological advances, right? Just 10 years ago, the price of computers, appliances, and flat screen TVs were much higher, and out of reach for much of the lower middle class. Today, nearly half of the world’s population uses the internet. In 2007, not even 15 percent were connected.
The progression of technology has affected the world in every way, the restoration industry included. When R&R mailed out its very first issue in early 2007, there wasn’t talk about thermal imaging cameras paired with smartphones, live in-the-field video inspections, drone usage, or many software options. Today, the pace of technological innovations is driving the growth and path of the restoration industry. Claims are being processed faster, and crews have new tools to help inspect and restore properties that weren’t around a decade ago.
However, on the same note, not much has really changed about the industry’s work itself, right? The goal is still to restore properties to their pre-loss condition, and offer impeccable customer service and customer care every single time. But with more on our plates, and having to do more and more work to meet quarterly goals, it’s getting harder to stay focused on our customers and communities. In this fast-paced world, we can all use a reminder from time-to-time to be kind.
This month, the #RestoringKindness movement will be spreading smiles and joy in communities across the U.S. Launched just two years ago, there are now more than 60 restoration companies committed to being part of this movement in 2017. The concept of Restoring Kindness is simple: find small gestures you can do to brighten someone else’s day in your community. The photos you see here are just a few examples. During the Violand Executive Summit in mid-June, attendees donated hundreds of dollars of items and school supplies for children in need in the Canton, Ohio area, and raised nearly $1,000 in addition, all as part of the Restoring Kindness movement. Elsewhere, restoration companies have found ways to bless local police officers, have pre-loaded vending machines with quarters, handed out ice cream on a hot day, delivered flowers and so much more.
So this July, how will you be Restoring Kindness? Find out more at www.restoringkindness.com. And thank you for your continued readership and support of R&R as we celebrate our 10th anniversary as a leading publication for restorers.