Another successful Movers for Moms® has officially wrapped!

Written by Lindsay Dow

Movers For Moms efforts in Jackson, MS — A 2nd grade class at Ann Smith Elementary in Jackson, Miss., helped support moms in need through Movers for Moms®!

Just nine years ago, the Movers for Moms® campaign was born. The annual program, which began with the Michigan TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® locations who wanted to support local moms in need around the time of Mother’s Day, involves working with local businesses, schools, and organizations to collect essential care items for moms living in domestic abuse or homeless shelters. Today, our more than 300 locations across the country participate in the program and support local moms in their community.

The program has grown exponentially over the years and we’re proud to say we’ve collected more than 800,000 items for moms the past nine years. This year alone, our fantastic franchises collected more than 285,000 items for delivery to local shelters!

“Movers for Moms was extremely instrumental in providing a wonderful and meaningful Mother’s Day for the Shelter’s participants,” said Volunteer and Resource Coordinator Rebecca Grabau at The Shelter for Abused Women and Children in Naples, Fla. “Without community support like this, the Shelter would not be able to provide our life changing programs and services, and we certainly would not be able to create such a special day for all of our survivors.”

Movers for Moms® success is built on the generosity of local communities coming together to support at-risk moms. A BIG thank you to everyone who has generously donated to the cause, or the local community partners that acted as drop off locations for donations. Without the support of our communities around the country, we wouldn’t be where we are today in helping moms who need it most around the time they should feel most special- Mother’s Day!

We’re proud to live out our core value of giving back to the community, not just when running our annual Movers for Moms® program, but all year long.

To stay updated on all Movers for Moms® happenings, like us on Facebook! TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is the first and largest franchised moving company in the United States. Let us help move you forward!

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® works to support moms in need across the country

Written by Arika Ford

Movers For Moms® is a community program that is a spring tradition for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®. The program has been very successful and has spread to all TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® locations in 39 states with more than 300 participating franchises!

You may already know that three out of 10 women are victims of domestic violence. Movers For Moms® is committed to helping support women living in women’s or homeless shelters by providing essential care items for the past nine years. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® works closely with local community partners such as banks, stores, schools, and other organizations to collect items women need in their day-to-day life. Essential care items including soap, shampoo, toothpaste and deodorant are donated by the general public into boxes provided by TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® and then delivered to the local shelter recipient just in time for Mother’s Day.

In 2015, more than 230,000 essential care items were collected by our local franchises and delivered to hundreds of shelters to offer hope and support to women across the country.

“Movers for Moms® was extremely instrumental in providing a wonderful and meaningful Mother’s Day for the Shelter’s participants,” says volunteer and resource coordinator of the Naples, Fla., Shelter for Abused Women & Children. “Without community support like this, the Shelter would not be able to provide our life changing programs and services, and we certainly would not be able to create such a special day for all of our survivors.”

This support extends its reach far beyond mothers in need. As we work to support mothers who are struggling, we in turn support others that depend on these women including their children, parents, and friends. An important part of the process to help build strong communities and families is doing our part to give back. Giving back is a core value that TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® employees embody and live by.

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Chair Melanie Bergeron shares the importance of the program and coming together is reaching moms across the country.

Each year our numbers continue to grow and it brings us great joy to know we are helping to positively impact lives. If you would like to get involved with Movers For Moms® or learn more, please visit twomenandatruck.com/movers-for-moms and like us on Facebook to stay updated with current program happenings!

An interview with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®’s leading ladies, Mary Ellen Sheets and Melanie Bergeron

Written by Jessy Howe

March is Women’s History Month, so we’d like to take some time to celebrate our leading ladies: TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®/International, Inc. Founder Mary Ellen Sheets and Chair Melanie Bergeron.

Mary Ellen Sheets

Founder Mary Ellen Sheets Brothers Brig Sorber and Jon Sorber began moving people in the Lansing, Mich., area using an old pickup truck as a way to make extra money. Their mom, Mary Ellen Sheets, drew up a logo for them and put an ad in the weekly community newspaper to help with their new found venture. The stickmen logo still rests on every truck, sign, and advertisement to this day.

Once the Sorber brothers left for college, Sheets found herself taking calls for moving services. She decided to continue booking local moves while working as a full-time data processor for the State of Michigan. In 1985, she decided to make things official and purchased a 14-foot truck for $350 and hiring a pair of movers to assist in the boys’ absence. This is the only capital Sheets has ever invested in the company.

After her first profitable year, Sheets generously donated her $1,000 profit to 10 different charities. It is this spirit that gives meaning to the company’s motto “Movers Who Care®” and led to the core value of “Giving Back to the Community.”

Melanie Bergeron

Chair Melanie Bergeron When a friend who shared a spot with Mary Ellen on the 1988 graduate business panel at Michigan State University recommend she franchise the business, she consulted with an attorney on the idea.

In 1989, Sheets awarded the first location outside of Michigan to her daughter, Melanie Bergeron, in Atlanta, Ga.

Melanie was living and working in Atlanta as a pharmaceutical sales representative before deciding to take on a franchise. She ran the business out of her apartment and as it turned out, the service was in demand and the company began to grow! In 1991 she became the vice president TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® and in 1994, she was named president of the company. She now serves as chair of the board and has been a member on the Board of Directors since 1996.

Helen Eberly

Helen Eberly, Grandma Eb Among the set of company’s core values is The Grandma Rule®, in honor of Mary Ellen’s mother Helen Eberly, or more commonly known as Grandma Eb. In the early years of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® when Mary Ellen was in need of a space to keep her trucks, Grandma Eb welcomed her to park the trucks in her backyard. She played an important role helping with various business duties and handling the move sheets and money movers would leave in a box on her back porch. Before long she was referred to as the “Yard Boss.”

As each of these amazing women has been honored with numerous awards and recognition through the years, they have never stopped learning and growing as individuals and businesswomen. We caught up with them in a Q&A interview!

How has working alongside one another strengthened your relationship? What have you learned from one another?

Mary Ellen: Melanie and I have almost been Velcroed together, not only as mother-daughter, but because of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®. We traveled together non-stop, visiting franchisees, conferences, and speaking engagements and have many, many shared memories … touching and hilarious. I had the determination to develop TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® in the beginning, but Mel had the drive that took it to a higher level. She is the ultimate professional.

Melanie: We did a lot with pure passion and survival instincts. We didn’t have money then for outside resources. My mom taught me to work hard, wear lots of hats, be optimistic and have fun in the process. She led me by example.

Founder Mary Ellen Sheets and Chair Melanie Bergeron, 1992 — Founder Mary Ellen Sheets and Chair Melanie Bergeron share a laugh at the company Annual Meeting in 1992.

Have you ever faced any gender-related roadblocks in your career?

Mary Ellen: The first gender related roadblock was more like the Alps! Moving was a man’s business, from beginning to end. None of the “good old boys” wanted some upstart women coming in and meddling in their field. They did everything they could to stop us – some very dirty tricks. We inched a long, chin held high, and never gave up. I decided early on it was more important to focus on our customers and put worries about the competition and what they were doing on a back burner.

Melanie: My mom never let the gender thing get to her. Focus on the customer. I have been exposed to many male business groups. I have learned so much by listening and learning from their best and worst practices. The key for all business people is to not just listen and learn but implement. I see a lot of analysis paralysis.

What advice would you share with young women preparing to begin their career?

Mary Ellen: I’ll leave this question to Mel. It was easier for me, I was 46 when TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® first began, single and my kids were grown and out of the nest. I didn’t have to contend with all of the young family issues.

Melanie: Get in the habit of taking care of yourself now. Chances are if you want that career you will work hard for it and get it. So … career will be time consuming, marriage, kids, life. It will be very important for you to find balance to have energy in all areas. For me, I got up very early to work out, pray, and have peaceful reflective time. It made be a better person all day.

Founder Mary Ellen Sheets and Chair Melanie Bergeron, 2006 — Founder Mary Ellen Sheets and Chair Melanie Bergeron split the cover of Greater Lansing Woman magazine in 2006.

What are your favorite things to do?

Mary Ellen: I’ll be 77 this year, so my entertainment is simple. I have always loved to read, watch movies, and boating (as a passenger!). My husband and I spend the winter in Florida. We enjoy visiting with friends and family.

Melanie: I find joy in my quiet morning time, praying and reflecting – everyday. I love to cook! I can’t think of anything more relaxing than chopping vegetables. I love to be with family. I love animals and little kids. I love to be active and doing anything outside. I’m pretty simple!

Final thoughts?

Mary Ellen: I am beyond blessed. I thank God every day for our success and am proud we have provided good jobs for so many, and of course, good moving services for our customers. I wish my parents could see. I loved them so much.

Melanie: God has blessed my family and TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®. I’m so thankful. I’m thankful that God is the center of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® and it continues to bless others in quality service, job creation, career opportunity, and relationships.

Thank you to our leading ladies for your dedication and leadership! Without the determination and hard work of Mary Ellen and Melanie, and all those who have played a part in TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®’s growth, we would not be where we are today.

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is the first and largest franchised moving company in the United States. Let us help move you forward!

A mother’s influence and never ending love

Written by Dawn Kroeger

In celebration of Mother’s Day and support of moms who work outside the home, I’ve come up with five simple tips to simplify and improve quality of life for you and your family.

Hire a cleaning person to keep your home in tip-top shape, but not one that requires you actually pick up the house before they come and clean
Hire a full-time nanny to help out, especially at dreaded bath and bed time
Have all food delivered by a grocery service and make sure it is healthy and balanced – NO TRANSFAT!
Sign up for one of those online style services that just sends you clothes that match your personality
Hire a trainer to come and shake you out of bed at 4:30 a.m. and drive you to the gym

Excellent. Once those items are complete, your life will be smooth sailing and stress-free. Oh, wait. What? You can’t afford all of that? You can’t find a trainer who makes wakeup calls? Yeah, me neither.

Like most women I have many roles in life – wife, sister, daughter, friend, team member, employee, 424959_10150520067426637_1617488211_n mentor, volunteer, and mother. While I am not defined by any single role, the most challenging and rewarding is that of mother. I don’t have a cleaning person, or a nanny. Laundry piles up and sometimes my kids end up on the bus accidently when they are supposed to be picked up from school. I try hard to plan the healthiest meals I can for my family but sometimes they eat Ramen noodles and McDonalds drive through.

Yet, I am a fantastic mom. I know this is boastful, but I am. I have been blessed to grow up both personally and professionally with extraordinary role models. I have learned so much by watching and understanding what makes a balanced, healthy, successful working mom.

My mo 400516_10151015465666637_198613670_n m: While my mom, Jo, worked my entire life, most of it full-time, it never felt like she wasn’t there. She was always present. She practiced lines for school musicals, was there for sporting events, field trips, class parties, and even after a full week of work, would plan fun weekend road trips to the beach, zoo, or to visit friends. We always had clean clothes (she was better at this than I am) and she balanced our lives with focus and fun. I recall several fish stick dinners on the run, but this was part of the fun! Her actions taught me not to feel guilty over a fish stick dinner here and there – these quick fix meals allowed us to embrace life and spend more time on family bike rides and playground adventures. In turn, I don’t feel bad when I ignore my messy house, or surprise my kids with ice cream for dinner on the way to the children’s garden after work. After all, spring is here – who needs clean socks? She must have been overwhelmed with balancing it all, at some point, like each mom is, but in true rock star mom fashion, we never knew if that was the case. We just knew she loved us, worked hard, and provided a fun and balanced life for us. My dad helped too, but this is not about dads today. You get your honor next month!

My grandmother: My grandma Mary worked full-time while raising six children. Let’s just say, maybe I am a great mom because I have two children. Most days three would push me over the edge into medium mom mode. But somehow, Mary got it done. She too, like my mom, worked full-time yet planned weekend trips to the beach for her brood each Sunday. I’ve seen pictures. The joy on the faces of the kids, the relaxed looks on Grandma and Grandpa. Clearly, she knew the importance of balance and it shows in the six hard-working children she raised.

Mother of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®: Mary Ellen Sheets, the founder of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®, has led by example and been an important influence in my life and career. As a single mom, leaving her secure job with the State of Michigan, she invested $350 in an old truck and took over the business her two young sons started. Her drive, faith, and commitment to supporting her family through entrepreneurship is inspiring. Mary Ellen’s stories of the early days of working hard, not having much money at the time, but donating her first $1000 profit to charity is a remarkably generous and humbling act. Knowing Mary Ellen and understanding the deep love she has for her children, and seeing the pride on her face when she talks about how far the business has come, is humbling. It was not always easy. I can only imagine the stress and heartache as she worked hard, as a single mom, to grow the business and conversely, the joy of watching this labor of love become the family business which provides for her children and now grandchildren. It is an honor to know Mary Ellen and her commitment first and foremost to her children as she worked to make TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® what it is today is something all moms can both appreciate and use as a source of inspiration.

On Mother’s Day, I reflect on the many moms who have influenced my life and I aspire to be as positive of an influence in my daughters’ lives. My Mother’s Day wish for all moms is to be blessed with strong, encouraging, role models who teach the importance of balancing work and career so you, too, can boast being a fantastic mom. Oh, and I wish you all the ability to provide your children with clean socks, even if it means picking up an extra pack at the grocery store when time doesn’t permit doing a load of laundry.

Mother’s Day gifts from the heart

Written by Shelby Reno

Mother’s Day is an occasion which honors mothers and motherhood, as well as unique maternal bonds. It’s also a time to acknowledge the influence of mothers in our culture. How do we do this? With cards, flowers, gifts, and precious time. What will you do for the mother figure in your life this Mother’s Day? If you’re still searching for the perfect solution, read on.

New Moms

New moms are thrilled to begin celebrating this holiday for the first time as a parent. Consider first-time mommy gifts of the lasting kind, so they have something to cherish and wear for years to come. Sterling silver bracelets and pendants with new baby’s name or footprints will be received with joy – likely even a few happy tears. This takes additional planning, so keep in mind you’ll need a few weeks for production and possibly shipping time.

Photo collages are available for order online from a host of suppliers, are offered in a variety of sizes, and are generally inexpensive. Dads, use your smartphone and take a series of cute and funny pictures of you and your child; upload, order and watch for the mailman. Later, collages can be stored flat or be rolled up, depending on size, and stowed in your new child’s memory box if you’ve already started one (highly recommend!).

Single Moms

Whether newly single or not, all moms need to have a celebration on Mother’s Day. If you’re kids are smaller it may take some more organizing on your part, but it won’t be any less special. Take the kids shopping for gifts and make a day out of it! Visit stores both you and your kids will enjoy and let them pick out special gifts for you. Then treat your family to lunch at your favorite restaurant. This day will be special way spend time together and will be one to remember.

If shopping isn’t really your kids’ cup of tea, make it craft time. Get fun paints, glitter, and other supplies and let your kids create a present for you. Purchase a small wooden jewelry box at your local craft store and let you kids paint and decorate it. Each time you reach for a piece of jewelry you’ll remember the fun you all had decorating the keepsake.

Need some R&R after spending the day with the kids? Ask the grandparents or close friends if they wouldn’t mind watching them while you treat yourself to a special spa day.

If you have a friend who’s a single mom, think about sending her a card or little gift wishing her a happy Mother’s Day. This will be a marvelous, unexpected surprise that will surely bring a smile to her face.

Seasoned Moms

Sentimental gifts know no age. I asked a few mothers of teens and adults, and for those who enjoy jewelry, this was the primary preference. I’m not referring to just expensive jewelry—sterling silver applies—rather pieces which remind moms of significance of the day—and even year—and the doting child(ren) who gifted it.

Can a little peace and quiet be packaged up? This was also a list-topper for moms who have a love-hate relationship with the familiar noises of a busy household what feels like 24/7. While the holiday is about celebrating motherhood and the kids are an integral part of the equation, sending mom off to meet with a gal pal for a late afternoon pedicure or Pinot Noir (or both!) is just the mini escape to brighten her day – especially if any babysitting needs are seamlessly handled. Day spas also offer a variety of packages with one or multiple services. A gift certificate can be redeemed for later use.

Grandmoms

I met a grandmother in her 70s yesterday at the park, and we watched my daughter and her grandson expend more energy than we were from the bench onto which we settled. She said something so heartfelt and humble which made me realize how special it is for young kids to live near grandparents, “I’m happy that they always welcome me in their activities. While I can’t do much physically, it feels good to be included and to watch my grandchildren have a good time.”

Knowing the gift of time is the greatest gift to most grandparents, consider encouraging your child to design or color unique “coupons” for upcoming family outings, special activities and events. It adds an element of planning ahead and puts the treasure of time together front and center, which is arguably the single most important element to a grandparent.

Desire something more tangible and immediate? Most seniors have collected over the years the essentials, so focus on small the luxuries or items too heavy to purchase and lug home on their own. Her favorite exotic flower variety is a good choice. Could the entrance or front door use a pop of color? Cute tin flowers to hang onto the door or a large potted miniature tree make for an indulgent gift they may not buy themselves—especially on a fixed income.

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is the first and largest franchised moving company in the United States. Let us help move you forward! For more helpful tips and information on moving services subscribe to our blog and like us on Facebook.

National Movers for Moms® campaign recognizes moms on Mother’s Day

Written by Lindsay Dow

Pasco County, Flordia — Pasco County, Florida

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is excited to begin collecting items for its seventh annual Movers for Moms® program aimed at collecting and donating items for mothers living in domestic abuse or homeless shelters across the country.

Locations across the country and internationally collect donations locally each year starting mid-March and running until Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11. The purpose of the program is to recognize those moms living in shelters this Mother’s Day by arranging delivery of small gifts for women who are victims of domestic abuse or homelessness. Every mother deserves to be recognized on their special day!

How can you help?

It’s simple! All you have to do is bring your donated items to a TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® location near you.

Encouraged donations include any/all personal items including:

• nice soaps
• hair styling products
• shampoos and conditioners
• pillows
• blankets
• slippers
• robes

No gift is too small!

To sign up to become a Movers for Moms® recipient or collections partner, please visit twomenandatruck.com/moversformoms. There you’ll find a partnership sign up form where you’ll input all of your contact information. From there your form will be forwarded to the closest franchise to you.

Be sure and check us out on Facebook www.facebook.com/moversformoms and follow us on Twitter @MoversForMoms to keep up with the latest program information!

Movers for Moms Success

Written by: Nick

It has been a crazy week for the marketing department, but all of the stress we dealt with was trumped by one number: 115,000. Any elementary school kid would widen their eyes at that number… and that’s exactly what we did. It’s hard to imagine 115,000 of anything. That’s why we were blown away when a report came in. It said our locations had collected and delivered over 115,000 donations for Movers for Moms®. To put that into perspective, our participating locations collected, on average 1,150 items for their women’s shelter partner. Our locations in Michigan collected approximately 25,000 items. Needless to say, we owe everyone that participated a HUGE thank you for making the program a monumental success. We love doing good things and making people feel good. So take a look at these feel-good pictures from a few of our collections: