As owner-operators of the Culver’s in Sierra Vista, Arizona, Kevin and Sandy Adams are well-versed in what it takes to run a successful restaurant. Along with their son, Riley, the co-GM of the location, Kevin and Sandy’s belief in a people-first approach to service has made their restaurant a thriving hub with strong roots in the Sierra Vista community.  

“We’re in the people business,” shared Kevin. “Creating connections and moments with our guests, team members and the people of our community is what matters most.”

The Adams’ family approach to running their restaurant is no coincidence, but rather the result of the family’s strong military ties. Sierra Vista itself is known as a “military town,” being home to both an Army post and a large veteran population.

In addition to the town’s own military connection, Kevin and Sandy both come from military families, and Riley is a veteran himself, having served in the U.S. Marines. An emphasis on teamwork and adaptability as well as ample opportunities for crew members to mentor one another have made their restaurant a place where the team’s military values are clear – and a place guests love to visit.

With these values in place, the Adams family also strives to bring veterans on as members of their restaurant team whenever possible. As a part of the True Blue Crew, veterans bring their work ethic and leadership skills to a restaurant setting, translating those skills to top-notch hospitality and service. Riley Adams himself exemplifies the kinds of qualities veterans can bring to the table as team members.

“Riley’s work ethic, leadership qualities and commitment to excellence have been so important to our success,” said Kevin. “His presence on our team is one of the main reasons we’re able to uphold our high standards.”

Honoring veterans is not something the Adams family takes lightly, both within their restaurant and outside of it. “None of this is possible without the freedoms they have defended and sacrificed for,” explained Kevin.

By bringing these individuals together in his restaurant, Kevin has noticed an appreciation for the sense of camaraderie that exists among the True Blue Crew. “They appreciate the shared experiences across the team here. I feel it’s helped those recently separated from the military transition back to civilian life a little easier,” Kevin shared.

The cohesiveness of the Sierra Vista team is a key piece of their people-first puzzle. The work environment cultivated through the team’s commitment to their community is what’s made their story a successful one. Even beyond the restaurant’s support of our nation’s veterans, they also participate in sponsorship and donation efforts that give back to their community on a local level. 

At the end of the day, though, their goal is always the same, as stated by Kevin: “Just providing a clean, comfortable place for folks to gather.” 

The Sierra Vista Culver’s is a shining example of what community can accomplish and how prioritizing people can make a difference. As proud supporters of U.S. veterans, the Adams family has built a place where those who have served can find a meaningful team atmosphere and people from all over can come in and feel cared for.

Know of any other great stories in the Culver’s community that deserve to be told on culvers.com? Share them with us at social@culvers.com!