Helpful Hearts is a celebration of Westlake Ace Hardware associates who are doing the unexpected – always finding ways to help others, choosing to live their lives with integrity, and striving to be role models in the communities they serve. Most importantly, Helpful Hearts turns the spotlight on our helpful heroes across America. Quite simply, it answers the question, “What happens when a good heart meets a helpful heart?

FEATURED STORY: “Empowering Through Passion”

Shannon Howard, interim store manager in Liberal, Kan., embodies the spirit of Westlake’s Helpful Hearts program with her unwavering commitment to both her community and store team.

Her passion for mentorship and community involvement has truly transformed the store’s culture. By encouraging associates to support causes meaningful to them, Shannon has cultivated a contagious sense of teamwork. As a result, her team actively engages in initiatives that make a difference, from pet adoptions to creating holiday care packages for seniors. “My favorite part of my job is enabling and supporting my team’s passions,” said Shannon. “And when you can do it for a ‘giving company’ like Westlake Ace, that’s even better.

In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Shannon was honored with the Helpful Hearts award and presented with a donation check in her name to Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center. Congratulations, Shannon, on your unwavering dedication to Westlake Ace and your community.