P.E.S.T. Relief International honors industry heroes

Andrea Hancock, founder of P.E.S.T. Relief International, adds her thumbprint to a piece of art for the Jordan family. PHOTO: P.E.S.T. RELIEF INTERNATIONAL

The non-profit charity Professionals Empowering, Sustaining & Transforming (P.E.S.T.) Relief International partnered with Georgia and Florida associations to honor industry heroes who gave their lives to serve others.

The Certified Pest Control Operators of Georgia (CPCO of GA) and P.E.S.T. Relief International hosted an outreach effort during the Spring Seminar in Savannah to raise awareness and support for Bradley Jordan’s surviving wife Hannah and two-year-old son Oliver.

Jordan was fatally shot on Jan. 28, 2021 while treating an apartment complex in Lawrenceville, Ga., when a stranger shot him.

Attendees raised money for outstanding expenses and to create a memorial piece of art, which included attendees’ thumbprints as colorful leaves on a tree.

Notes of encouragement, cash offerings and the art piece were presented to Hannah and Oliver to offer relief and comfort. In addition, donors from across the country donated to help Hannah with her living expenses.

Honoring David Cooksey

David Cooksey

P.E.S.T. Relief International also honored David Cooksey’s life through the “Do it For Dave” event during the Florida Pest Management Association (FPMA) conference in June. Cooksey died on May 14 from complications following a routine surgical procedure.

Manufacturers and members of the pest management industry at the conference filled 100 Bags of Relief for local veterans residing and/or seeking services in Saint Petersburg, Florida. Volunteers filled drawstring bags with items including an embroidered veteran hat, toiletry care package, American flag, breathable/reusable mask, snacks and a handwritten note of encouragement for each veteran.

The bags were delivered after the conference to the local Veteran’s Hospital with the assistance of the Florida State Elks Association.

Andrea Hancock, founder of P.E.S.T. Relief International, said in a news release that Cooksey was a proud veteran that served the pest industry well.

“These thoughtful gifts reflect the impact of David’s life on so many others,” Hancock said. “They mean so much to our veterans, and we’re grateful to continue these initiatives that bring hope, dignity, and comfort — especially in honor of one of our own.”