On Saturday, Nov. 4, Resideo (a top global distributor of security, fire, and low-voltage products) hosted its annual CONNECT awards ceremony at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Arizona. Holmes Security Systems, a 115-year-old residential and commercial security and life safety solutions provider for residential and commercial clients in Eastern NC, was recognized in 3 categories:

• Salesperson of the year went to Drew Stevens, a life safety & security consultant in the Wilmington office. He was shocked and humbled to receive recognition as the top salesperson across the US and Canada for Resideo Security integrators for the 2nd year in a row.
• The Holmes team was recognized with a Making a Difference Award for the team's involvement in making a difference in the community. Holmes’ role in the annual Crimestoppers BBQ and fundraiser. 

Holmes submitted the following statement for consideration for the award, highlighting their impact on the community: 

“While we know crime can benefit our industry, our position in the community allows us to see the bigger picture. Our impact is more significant than just driving sales for ourselves; if we can positively impact the community by helping to reduce Crime or help solve crimes, then as good stewards, we will do that. This year, our entire team contributed time, talent, and treasure. On Friday, 4/28/23, you could see Holmes Security Vehicles throughout the community delivering BBQ plates, team members slinging BBQ into containers, and leading up to the event, Morgan Hubbard was an all-star, securing a record number of sales during her time. This successful fundraiser resulted in 3,200 sold plates, which raised funds that allow community members to be financially compensated for anonymous crime tips with positive results. Year after year, we are honored to help make a difference in our community to reduce, prevent, and solve Crimes.”

• The team was also recognized with a Life Safety Award. This award is given to organizations that have contributed to actions that helped save a life. In this case, an elderly resident of our community with a wearable monitored medical/panic button as part of their security system pressed it, and our team jumped into action to provide assistance and deploy emergency personnel. Had she not had the button it could have been a bad situation.

“We are excited that Drew brought home the salesperson of the year award and that we were recognized for life safety efforts,” shared Holmes Security Systems President Stephen Wheeler. “It is especially meaningful to be recognized for making a difference in the community my family chose to start a business in back in 1908.”