We responded to the COVID-19 crisis by addressing remote work , reentering the office in a phased approach , and implementing health and safety protocols . In addition to everyone ’ s physical health and safety , it was imperative to guarantee financial stability for our people and their families , so we secured the PPP loan to avoid staff reductions and possible layoffs . We had to remain flexible and adjust as necessary because what we were confronting was unprecedented . Throughout all of this , the promise we made to always put our team first is truer today than ever before .
So , what did we learn throughout it all ? Our remote work situation forced us to develop a remote work policy much sooner than we originally planned . I ’ m actually thankful for that , because it showed us that it ’ s possible . We ’ re also now more open to recruiting top talent outside of our geographic footprint , including outside of Ohio .
This past year , we haven ’ t let the limitations of the pandemic hold us back from deploying and investing our time into new and exciting solutions , systems , roles , and technology . In the pages of this report , you ’ ll read about our progress and growth as it relates to reimagining how we work and meet the needs of our people and clients .
You ’ ll also read about how we became the leaders in all of our markets in providing crucial , timely information to help you , our clients , navigate the challenges you faced . We pivoted our service offerings and immersed ourselves in the CARES Act and Paycheck Protection Program . We learned the intricacies of these programs so we could help you navigate the sometimes daily changes to this complicated legislation .
As a Top 100 firm , we have no choice but to continue to innovate so we can remain ahead of the curve as our industry rapidly evolves . We owe it to each of you to provide new solutions , attract top talent , and remain competitive in every way .
I always like to end with a quote by someone smarter than me . This year it ’ s by journalist Tom Brokaw who said ,
“ IT ’ S EASY TO MAKE A BUCK . IT ’ S A LOT TOUGHER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE .”
If there ’ s anything this year has reaffirmed in us , it is our duty to make a difference in the lives of our clients , team members , and communities . Making a meaningful difference is the reason we come to work every day . We not only make a difference for our clients but we also make a difference by how we support one another . Let ’ s do the right thing and continue to make serving our clients and team members our focus in 2021 .
Thank you always for your business , your trust , and your friendship .
Sincerely ,
Don McIntosh , CPA CEO , Rea & Associates
FROM THE CEO
CONNECTION REA & ASSOCIATES ’ 2020 ANNUAL REPORT NOV . 2019 – OCT . 2020