Our Second Annual Merkel Day of Service

In mid June, we had our Merkel Wealth Management team back out in the community for our second annual Day of Service—this time returning to the YWCA Family Center here in Columbus.

When we launched this tradition in 2025, we said we hoped it would be the first of many. We're proud to say it is.

This year, our team helped move items out of the Family Center's Empowerment Store to prepare for an upcoming renovation, and assembled several sturdy Uline cabinets to support the refreshed space.

The Empowerment Store is one of the most meaningful programs we've encountered in our time volunteering with the YWCA. Residents "shop" for everyday items using points they earn through positive actions—like maintaining their living space and contributing to their community. It's a simple but powerful model that builds accountability, dignity, and personal growth into daily life at the Family Center.

We're already looking forward to seeing the transformation come together, as the next groups of volunteers paint the space and help put everything back in place. It's a reminder that meaningful change is rarely the work of one day or one team—it's built through ongoing, collective effort.

Since 1886, the Columbus YWCA has been showing up for women and families in this city. We're grateful for the chance to show up alongside them, even in small ways, and we're already looking forward to next year.

Thank you to the YWCA Family Center for welcoming us back and for the opportunity to be part of such meaningful work.

Here's to year two of the Merkel Day of Service—and to many more ahead.

Our First Annual Merkel Day of Service

2025 marks the launch of a long-standing initiative we hope to carry on for years to come. At Merkel Wealth Management, we believe that even small efforts can lead to meaningful change. Giving back to the communities around us—no matter how big or small the contribution—helps build a stronger, more connected world.

We’re proud to dedicate a day each year to serving those in need across the greater Columbus area. For our inaugural Day of Service, Merkel Wealth Management volunteered with the YWCA Family Center and Women’s Center. During our visit, we learned that the Columbus YWCA has been serving the community since 1886, originally founded as part of the Women’s Educational and Industrial Union. Today, their mission remains focused on empowering women, eliminating racism, and strengthening families. Our team was honored to contribute by cleaning shared spaces and assisting with preparations for the Earn Store remodel. It was hands-on, impactful work—and a reminder of the power of community collaboration. We are incredibly proud of this experience and look forward to many more opportunities to serve.

Here’s to the first of many Merkel Days of Service!