Celebrating Community Impact: A Father-Son Duo’s Recognition in Pensacola
Earlier this month, a remarkable father-son duo from Pensacola received prestigious awards, highlighting their significant contributions to the community through their family-owned business, ITL Solutions. This recognition not only underscores their individual achievements but also reflects the collective effort of their dedicated team.
Awards and Recognition
Harold Griffin Sr., the CEO of ITL Solutions, was honored with the National Movement for Human and Civil Rights (NMHCR) Community Service Award during a ceremony on November 19. This accolade recognizes the vital services the company provides to residents in need, particularly those facing mobility challenges.
In a parallel celebration, his son, Harold Griffin Jr., was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year on November 16 at the Studer Community Institute’s EntreCon 2020: Business and Leadership Conference. As the vice president of business development, Griffin Jr. has been instrumental in the company’s impressive growth over the past five years.
A Team Effort
Despite the accolades, Griffin Jr. emphasizes that these awards represent a collective achievement. “My dad always wants to pass the credit off to me, but it’s a team effort,” he stated. “Both awards I consider company-wide awards.” This sentiment reflects the collaborative spirit that drives ITL Solutions and its commitment to serving the community.
ITL Solutions: More Than Just Transportation
ITL Solutions specializes in non-emergency transportation, catering primarily to individuals who are wheelchair-bound or have other mobility impairments. The company’s mission is to provide safe and reliable transportation for a variety of needs, from medical appointments to grocery shopping.
“What we do is transport people to and from doctor appointments, dialysis, therapy, work, school, and pretty much anywhere,” Griffin Jr. explained. “That’s why it’s called ‘non-emergency transportation.’ Pretty much anything under the sun, we do — unless it is an emergency transport.”
Growth and Transformation
Griffin Jr. has played a pivotal role in transforming ITL Solutions since taking over in 2015. Under his leadership, the company has expanded significantly, growing from a modest operation with annual revenues of around $100,000 to a thriving enterprise generating over $3.8 million in revenue.
“Before I took over the company, we were mainly doing limousine and private transportation. We only had a few contracts,” he recalled. “Ever since I took over, I’ve grown the company.” This growth is a testament to his vision and dedication to enhancing the services offered by ITL Solutions.
Community Impact
The NMHCR’s Community Service Award was bestowed upon ITL Solutions for its commitment to providing accessible transportation for those who might otherwise struggle to find safe travel options in Escambia County. Ellison Bennett, a board member of NMHCR, highlighted the importance of the services provided by the company.
“The good that they do is to provide services for people who do not have rides — people with disabilities, people going to doctor appointments,” Bennett noted. “If a citizen calls and says, ‘I need to go get groceries,’ they provide the transportation.” This level of service is crucial in a county as expansive as Escambia, where reliable transportation can significantly impact residents’ quality of life.
Conclusion
The recognition of Harold Griffin Sr. and Harold Griffin Jr. serves as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities. Through ITL Solutions, they not only provide essential services but also embody the values of compassion and respect that are vital in today’s society. As they continue to grow and serve, their story inspires others to contribute to their communities in meaningful ways.