Association of Progressive Rental Organizations

Florida Buddy’s Brings Kids Holiday Blessings

Buddy’s CEO Michael Bennett (far left, blue shirt) with one of the area families that received food, clothing, and gifts for the holidays.

An Orlando, Florida, location of APRO member Buddy’s Newco LLC dba Buddy’s Home Furnishings recently celebrated five years of “Buddy’s Blessings,” presenting 20 local children from eight families with holiday food, clothing, and fun gifts.

The event is organized by Rolling Hills Elementary School program coordinator and parent liaison Josephine Anderson, who also coined the moniker “Buddy’s Blessings.” Anderson selects the Rolling Hills families in greatest need, and Buddy’s provides them with a holiday meal, and each student with two complete outfits, including shoes, and toys.

Anderson says her whole team looks forward to the Buddy’s Blessings event every year.

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Mike Tissot

Countryside Rentals Inc., dba Rent-2-Own

Mike grew up in the rent-to-own industry under the guidance of his father, former APRO President and RTO legend Darrell Tissot. For nearly 25 years, Mike’s innovative leadership has helped expand the family business to more than 40 stores across Ohio and Kentucky while also shaping the industry as a whole.

He has served as President of the Ohio Rental Dealers Association, an APRO board member and Treasurer, and President and Treasurer of the TRIB Group. His contributions have earned him the APRO President’s Award of Excellence and the title of APRO Rental Dealer of the Year.

Outside of RTO, Mike enjoys time at the lake house or in Orange Beach, Alabama, with his girlfriend, Angela Strong McCool. A passionate Cincinnati Reds fan, he rarely misses a game, whether watching or listening alongside his parents. He also takes every opportunity to visit Arizona, where his daughter is currently attending Arizona State University.