Jun 10, 2026 | Good Deed Team, Teammate Celebration
Teammates in LaGrange and Newnan Georgia proved that customer service means more than just completing a job. Teammates in LaGrange noticed an elderly customer’s yard had become overgrown and difficult to manage. Rather than simply completing the scheduled service and moving on, the team came together to help. Bringing their own lawn equipment, the team spent a Saturday cleaning up the property – digging up roots, trimming, and removing trees, clearing weeds, and helping restore the yard.
A few weeks later, teammates in Newnan noticed a similar need while servicing another customer’s home. They stepped in all the same, completing a full yard cleanup for the customer who needed support. For both teams, the work was meaningful because it gave them the chance to come together and care for customers in a very real, practical way.
While the stories are the same, LaGrange and Newnan teams were unaware the others had completed a similar task. They simply noticed where two customers needed support and helped where they could, demonstrating what it means to put care into action.
That is the kind of customer experience we hope people feel from Northwest. Not just a completed appointment, but care from the people behind it. Care that shows up in small decisions, extra effort, and the desire to honor those who trust us.
We are grateful for every Northwest teammate who keeps their eyes open for the opportunity to serve and make a small difference for our customers, communities, and each other.
May 28, 2026 | Community News, Good Deed Team
Teammates from Northwest Good Deed Team and our sister brand Orkin visited Cane Ridge Elementary School in Antioch, TN, to give students a glimpse into the world of pest control management during the school’s Career Day. Teammates were proud to introduce students to the endless opportunities within the pest industry and help them understand how pest professionals protect homes and communities.
Students were excited to learn about the pest industry, asking questions about everything from training required to enter the field to the tools and equipment used on the job. Some even wanted to know more personal details, like each teammate’s favorite bug. This type of engagement brought smiles to students and teammates and served as a reminder of how something as simple as talking about their day-to-day lives can truly make a difference in the lives of others. No Career Day would be complete without a hands-on experience, and the show-and-tell display did not disappoint. Students were fascinated by a variety of taxidermized animals, including a groundhog, otter, and armadillo. However, the hornet’s nest quickly became the star of the show, drawing the most attention. Students also had the opportunity to take home some fun Northwest items, including snacks and sunglasses, giving them a fun reminder of the day.
For Northwest and Orkin teammates, the partnership was an example of the power of collaboration and of inspiring the next generation. While pest control might not be the first career that comes to mind, many of our teammates talk to how a career in pest control is really a career serving people. By bringing together shared expertise and a passion for service, the teams created memorable experiences that inspired students to think differently about future career possibilities.
May 22, 2026 | Community News, Company News, Good Deed Team
Families across Georgia will have the essential items they need to provide for the youngest members of their families thanks to the help of Northwest Exterminating teammates and other volunteers from across the state. Nearly a dozen dedicated Northwest teammates helped distribute more than 500,000 diapers, wipes, pull-ups, adult underwear, and feminine hygiene products to help families in need. These items will go to the unhoused community or families that are on the brink of homelessness. Greg Green and Kristen Milligan, co-directors of the Northwest Good Deed Team, were also there with the ‘Chillin and Grillin’ grill trailer to provide lunch for all the volunteers.
On May 8, nearly a dozen teammates met in the parking lot of HomeAid Georgia loading stacks of boxes into the vehicles of more than 40 non-profit organizations as they drove through to pick up their pre-arranged supplies. Many of the recipients spoke about the impact the drive has on the communities they serve. “These essentials bring stability and allow moms to focus on other essentials that they need to spend their money on; these diapers make a huge difference,” said a representative from Well Root Family Services. Recipients used words like “wonderful,” “amazing,” and “exciting,” to describe the day but the word we heard most was “blessed.” You could see the gratitude and relief on their faces as they picked up their items. Some nonprofit representatives traveled from as far as Albany, GA., proof of just how great the need is within our local communities. Teammates are always thankful for opportunities to serve, and the recipient feedback was a powerful reminder of Northwest’s true reason behind why we’re in the “bug business: to care for people. This year’s Essentials Drive took a different approach. Instead of collecting items, 27 teams donated money, allowing HomeAid to purchase essentials at wholesale and maximize impact. Northwest contributed more than $2,000 to support the effort.
2026 marks 25 years of the Essentials Drive for HomeAid Georgia, and Northwest has been a proud partner for more than 20 of those years. This partnership is just another great example of what’s possible when organizations share a common goal of supporting members of our community facing the greatest challenges, and a true testament to teammates who show up time and again, ready to jump into action with a servant’s heart and show how much they truly care.
Our Northwest teams look forward to the continued partnership with HomeAid Georgia. If you would like to learn more and further support this incredible organization, please visit https://www.homeaidga.org/.
May 15, 2026 | Company News, Teammate Celebration
Growth isn’t always linear. Sometimes, it comes in unexpected shapes and sizes, through opportunities you never saw coming. For Kathryn Smith, Administrative Operations Manager at Northwest, this has been the most surprising and rewarding part of her journey. Those unexpected moments have offered invaluable lessons, broadened her perspective, and opened her eyes to new possibilities. As she puts it, “Perspective creates possibility.”
Kathryn’s Northwest story began in 2015, when she walked into a Service Center to apply for an Administrative Professional role. From the very first moment, the sense of family and community stood out. Even during the interview, she felt completely comfortable being herself – a rare and refreshing experience. “I knew this place was different,” she shared. “I wanted to be part of it.” That initial feeling of belonging only deepened after she joined the team. The culture, rooted in inclusivity and support, became a driving force that kept her moving forward. At Northwest, everyone has a place.
Over the years, Northwest has consistently bet on Kathryn, offering her opportunities to grow and thrive. Every role and promotion has been a leap of faith, a testament to the company’s belief in her potential. “They’ve continued to believe in me, and because of that, I’ll continue to show up and fight for the Mouse,” she said. This unwavering support has allowed her to pursue her passion for Administration and look ahead with excitement to all that’s still to come.
When asked what advice she’d share with someone just starting out, Kathryn’s words are both practical and inspiring. “Stay the path,” she said. “Focus on excelling at the basics. When you consistently own your craft, people notice. That’s how you quietly become a leader – to yourself and to those around you.”
She also emphasized the importance of resilience and growth in the face of challenges. “Own the ‘No.’ When you’re ready for more, you won’t always hear ‘yes.’ Learn to own the no. That’s where you grow – maturely, intentionally, and with resilience. Ask yourself: How can I grow so that next time, the answer becomes yes?”
Finally, Kathryn offered a reminder to stay true to yourself. “Love your ‘you.’ Your words matter. Learn to say the hard things and speak your truth – but always kindly and for the right reasons.”
Kathryn’s journey is a powerful reflection of what makes Northwest extraordinary: a culture that fosters growth, a community that feels like family, and a belief in the potential of every individual. Her story is a reminder that growth isn’t just about climbing a ladder – it’s about embracing every twist, turn, and unexpected opportunity along the way.
Click here to find out your team’s wellness score.
May 15, 2026 | Community News, Community/Events, Company News, Good Deed Team
Students and teachers at Shadow Rock Elementary School received a special treat when Northwest Exterminating teammates rolled in with the Chillin’ & Grillin’ grill on May 7. Teammates hosted a special Teacher Appreciation and 5th Grade Recognition lunch, serving burgers and hot dogs to honor hard working educators and the achievements of students preparing for their next big step of graduating to middle school. For many teachers, they were aware that Northwest was planning something, but they didn’t know just how big the outpouring of love and appreciation would be.
“I thought we were just going to have a few snacks,” said school psychologist Dr. Terri Blake. “When I saw the burgers and hot dogs, I thought, ‘Oh, they really love us.’ This is the type of school climate that I’m enjoying being in.”
The impact was just as meaningful for students. Fifth graders felt special and were proud to be recognized for their hard work. Younger students passed by noticing the special lunch set up, and many asked why they couldn’t join the celebration. Teammates were quick to encourage them, reminding students that if they continue to get good grades, they will get the same special treatment when they’re in the 5th grade.
Moments like these create a ripple effect. As Dr. Blake shared, “It makes the long days go faster. Our students are used to being supported and celebrated. I’m hoping they’ll see us being loved on and appreciate us a bit more and then its full circle, happier teachers mean happier students.”
For Northwest teammates, the day was just as uplifting; opportunities like this go beyond service. It’s about taking the initiative to make a difference in the lives of others and creating moments that remind people that they are appreciated.
Educators pour into the next generation every single day, and small gestures can make a lasting impact. Everyone has the ability to brighten a teacher’s day. We encourage everyone to take an extra moment to show appreciation for those making a difference around you!
