Coming Attraction

Garrett Gardi is a strong believer in mixing work with community service. "In order to be successful both in business and personally, you need to have community involvement," he says.

The lifelong Red Sox and New England Patriots fan moved from Boston to Naples two years ago. He took a job as a risk manager with Insurance Risk Management Services, Inc., where he's responsible for helping small businesses find health insurance. "I don't know one person that enjoys insurance, but it's one of the top concerns for small-business owners," he says. "It makes me happy when I'm able to find solutions that will impact their bottom line and take care of their employees and families. In order to be successful though, you have to know your community."

And that's where Gardi comes in. He works with the Collier County Economic Development Council, the Medical Managers Association and his company's United Way campaign. And at the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce, he has launched a mentor program for new business owners. "This program matches new people with a liaison to help build relationships and develop traction," he says.

Gardi's own experience is helping him shape the program. "I met a gentleman who took me under his wing and taught me." Now it's Gardi's turn.

"One of the nice things about Naples is that, for the first time in my life, I've found clarity," he says. "This is my home; I'm not going anywhere."

-Lauren Bernaldo