In the small town of Irmo, South Carolina, following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, one act of kindness has captured the attention of both local and national media. Brandi Clarkson, the District Director for Fathom Realty in Columbia and Piedmont regions, never set out to make headlines. She simply wanted to help her neighbors, who were struggling without power, in whatever way she could. Yet her simple gesture of opening her front porch to the community has become a symbol of hope and resilience.

“I didn’t even really tell my family,” Brandi shared with a laugh during an interview. “I made the post, and they said, ‘Did you just invite the whole town over?’ And I said, ‘I did.’” What began as an impromptu offer of a hot meal of spaghetti, a place to charge devices, watch TV, cool off, and even water bowls for pets quickly evolved into something much larger.

In the days since the storm passed, nearly 140 people have visited Brandi’s porch, seeking a brief respite from the challenges brought on by the hurricane. For Brandi, the idea was simple: “Our porch brings me peace and makes me happy. I thought maybe it would do the same for others. If we could feed them and offer them some sense of normalcy, maybe it would make things a little better for them.”

The heartfelt outreach didn’t go unnoticed. Brandi’s efforts were featured on News19 and WISTV, local news stations, and Good Morning America, showcasing her act of kindness on a national stage. But while the attention was flattering, Brandi quickly emphasized that this is what people should do every day.

“The media loves human interest stories, but helping people and trying to be a good neighbor shouldn’t reach the point of national news,” Brandi said. “I’m not a hero. I just wanted to help where I could.”

As her porch became a gathering place for the local residents, the community began to rally around her efforts. Neighbors offered to bring pasta and supplies, eager to contribute in any way they could. “It started small, but then the community joined in, and together, we watched it grow,” Brandi reflected. “I hope and pray this encourages us all to do better, including myself and my family.”

Her message is simple: Help where you can, however you can, whenever you can. “Every little bit makes a difference,” Brandi said. Her porch has become a beacon of hope in the chaos left behind by Hurricane Helene. 

Brandi continued to open her home to those in need. With the lights on through the night, neighbors know they can stop by, whether for a meal, a drink, or just a sense of normalcy in an otherwise turbulent time. In addition to spaghetti and hot dogs, Brandi offered snacks, bottled water, cookies, cupcakes, and bread.

“If more people could do this in their neighborhoods, it would make such a difference,” Brandi said. “People have been so appreciative, and I know if I didn’t have power, I would be grateful for someone doing the same.”

As she listens to Luke Combs’s song “Plant a Seed,” Brandi is reminded of how her small effort grew into something much larger. “I just planted a seed and watched the community help it grow.”

While the media coverage may fade, Brandi hopes the spirit of giving will continue long after recovery efforts are complete. She encourages everyone to keep helping their neighbors, even when the storms have passed. “Let’s keep serving like we have this week, long after the recovery is over.”

If you’re a real estate professional passionate about creating meaningful change, consider joining Fathom Realty. We don’t just sell houses; we’re committed to nurturing vibrant communities through our culture of service. If you’re searching for a career beyond transactions and offering a profound sense of purpose, connect with us today to explore the world of Fathom!