Publix Lakeland Division associate is honored for community involvement

April 17, 2024 - Publix Super Markets recognized Lakeland Division Store Manager Matt Humphreys with a 2024 Mr. George Community Service Award at the company's annual stockholders' meeting.

Humphreys serves several organizations in his community, such as Habitat for Humanity, the Muscular Dystrophy Association and Boys & Girls Club. However, he is most involved with United Way.

"I have been involved with United Way for about 12 years and on the board of directors for five years, and it is so rewarding," said Humphreys. "One of the most memorable experiences I've had with United Way was in 2022 when Hurricane Ian struck and devastated our area. It was right in the middle of our campaign, and we had to do a 180 to get out a different message and help people in need. It seemed as though every person in the area was impacted in some way. It was an eye-opening experience and truly amazing to see what can be accomplished when people come together to help."

As chairman of the board, Humphreys has already started on the 2024-25 United Way campaign and hopes to raise even more money this year than the $11.2 million raised last year.

"Previous board members have been the mayor, doctors and lawyers. I feel humbled to be a part of such a diverse group, and I plan on making the most of this responsibility," Humphreys said.

When asked what he thinks is the most important thing you can give, Humphreys said time.

"You can't put a dollar amount on time, and time is something everybody has," he said. "With the time I have in this life, I hope to inspire others and pass on Mr. George's legacy to help the communities we serve."

About the honoree

Humphreys started his career as a front service clerk in 1999 in Cape Coral, Florida. He transferred to North Fort Myers, Florida, and was promoted to cashier in 2002. While finishing school, Humphreys worked as a part-time office cashier until 2004, when he was promoted to assistant common area manager and decided to pursue a career with Publix. In 2005, Humphreys was promoted to customer service manager. In 2009, Humphreys transferred to Cape Coral and was promoted to assistant store manager. In 2017, Humphreys reached his goal of becoming store manager, taking the position in Fort Myers, Florida. He currently serves as a store manager in Babcock Ranch, Florida, and his next goal is to become a district manager.

About the award

Each year, one associate from each retail division and one support associate are recognized with the Mr. George Community Service Award. These associates are actively involved in their communities and represent the generous spirit of Publix founder George W. Jenkins. Recipients receive a personalized award, a feature in an internal company publication, dinner with Publix executives, three paid days off and $5,000 donated to the charity or charities of their choosing.

Humphreys joins Atlanta Division Store Manager Hermith Coleman, Charlotte Division Store Manager David Kuehl, Jacksonville Division Store Manager Danita Washington, Miami Division Grocery Replenishment Specialist Ody Infante, and Senior Supply Chain Replenishment Manager Brad Shiver as this year's Mr. George Community Service Award recipients.

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