Pub. 55 2014-2015 Issue 4

35 SUMMER 2015 who understands old-school customer service and wants to provide an excellent experience for each client that walks through the door. Likewise, Durant’s philosophy of giving back is something that is better caught than taught. Because of that influence, his employees all understand the importance of the philanthropic causes that their company supports, and many donate their own time and money to causes that they hold dear. Lee Durant is currently serving as captain of the Parker County Sheriff’s Posse and has worked in sales with his cousin, Jerry, for the past 36 years. Jerry Durant first joined the Posse in 1974 and has been an active member of this philanthropic organization ever since, serving as lieutenant in 1983 and then as captain in 1984. The mission of the Sheriff’s Posse, and its 140 members, is to preserve Western heritage in Parker County. Lee says, “Jerry does a lot behind the scenes that he doesn’t tell people about and doesn’t take credit for.” The Sheriff’s Posse is responsible for putting on the Parker County Frontier Days Rodeo and Livestock Show annually. After covering their expenses, all proceeds from the Rodeo then go right back into the community. They support many causes including the Pink Luncheon, which promotes breast cancer awareness, and the Parker County 4-H and FFA members through the Parker County Livestock Improvement Association, just to name a few. “There is not a man out there with a bigger heart for Weatherford. If it is going to be better for Weatherford, Jerry is going to take the initiative and get it done,” says Lee Durant. The Parker County Livestock Improvement Association has benefitted greatly from the contributions and support they have received. Mat Galliton serves as president along with Cody Mc- Cleery, who is the current general superintendent of PCLIA. Galliton says, “I would do anything for Jerry. He has done so much for our organization. His managers and staff are always outstanding help to us.” The annual sale takes place in conjunction with the Parker County Sheriff’s Posse. By purchasing the livestock, which have been raised by Parker County 4-H and FFA members, he is directly supporting students who will use that money to either purchase new animals that they can take to other livestock shows around the state or put it aside for their future education needs. Not only has Durant purchased countless animals from the annual auction of livestock over the years, he actively promotes the organization. When the PCLIA approached Durant recently about their need for a new building, “Jerry jumped in right away. Whenever we have asked, he has never turned us down,” says Galliton. “Jerry initiated our Capital Fund Campaign and even offered to match every donation up to $150,000.”The organization looks forward to hosting future events in their new digs. Passionate About Children’s Causes If you ask Durant what makes him tick, he will tell you: “Kids – that is what I am passionate about. You can’t go wrong when you are doing something good for kids.” Cousin Lee Durant echoes that sentiment, “If a kid walks in the door and expresses a need, Jerry is going to meet it. I have never seen him turn his back on any child who has a need.” One example is Mission Granbury, which provides resources for individuals and families in need or in crisis. While their primary focus is on the residents of Hood County, their impact reaches into Somervell, Parker, Johnson, Tarrant and Dallas as well. They help to connect clients with the resources they need to be self-sufficient, healthy and safe. Executive Director April Mitchell puts it this way, “We help to bridge a way to a new life.” Durant’s support was not solicited by Mission Granbury. Mitchell says, “He contacted us directly last year with the offer of his support and a generous donation to our charity.” The Family Violence Shelter (Ada Carey Center), Food Pantry, and Victim’s Assistance Program all fall under their heading. Mission Gran- bury provides shelter, legal services, crisis counseling, drug and alcohol assessments, and referrals to other agencies. They are the only ones in that area who are providing those services, especially the victim care services. CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates, and it also falls under the umbrella of Mission Granbury’s services. This volunteer program trains advocates for abused children placed in CPS custody. Durant has been a supporter of this worthy cause as well. He helps fund the program through personal donations as well as by hosting their annual golf tournament fundraiser, and at Christmastime he helps afford these children a visit with Santa at their Breakfast with Santa event. “I think especially in rural areas, people tend to follow the leadership of someone they know like Jerry Durant. He is a compassionate person who chooses to give back. He doesn’t have to...he chooses to! And, I don’t know if he realizes the power of his support,” says Mitchell. “By his involvement and by giving to a particular charity or cause, it encourages others to get involved themselves and give to that charity.” Likewise, Lynn Walsh, executive director of Careity Founda- tion, has known Durant for more than 15 years and considers  JERRY DURANT — CONTINUED ON PAGE 36 “The annual Walk is our major event for the year, and the Durants were so gracious to host us for so many years. We are very grateful that they have remained loyal supporters and sponsors of the event,” says Hocker.