the PURSUIT of HAPPYNESS

 “A Script Atlanta-based CPA Leo Hunt Knows So Well”

Atlanta, GA:  Actor Will Smith is starring on the big screen in the story of Chris Gardner; a man who went from homelessness to success in the largest financial district in the world – Wall Street.  This was accomplished because of Mr. Gardner’s sheer determination and the loving warmth and support of family – especially his son.

Atlanta native Leo Hunt has been fortunate not to have experienced the homelessness that Mr. Gardner had to endure.  However, as an entrepreneur, he is very familiar with the struggle.

Today, Mr. Hunt, a certified public accountant, recently opened his seventh tax office, Tax First, in the Atlanta metro area and his company, Tax First, Inc. is the fastest growing income tax preparation company specializing in electronic filing in the Southeastern United States.  However, just like Mr. Gardner, the pursuit of happiness has been a long road filled with determination, despair, joy, fear and prayer.

Nearly 15 Years Ago…

Armed with an accounting degree from Georgia State University in 1991, Mr. Hunt spent years pursing his dream of entrepreneurship and owned a transportation company and meat packing facility.  However, he soon returned to his passion, accounting.  After working for a CPA firm and returning to school to earn his CPA certification, he opened his first Tax First office.  Working 14 hour days on end, Mr. Hunt soon ran into the iceberg that has made so many small businesses feel like the Titanic; lack of working capital.  Mr. Hunt was able to navigate the icy waters with a $5,000 loan from then-girlfriend, Verina Johnson.  Ms. Johnson and a host of both her and Mr. Hunt’s family also became the official “street team” for Tax First and distributed flyers, business cards and whatever assistance the business needed. Mr. Hunt knows a good woman when he sees one and made Ms. Johnson his wife.

Mr. Hunt says he has a strong appreciation for heartwarming stories such as Mr. Gardner’s because the true pursuit of happiness encompasses hard work, perseverance and most of all – family.   

Tax First to Give Away 350 Honey Baked Turkeys and Free Toys at Annual Holiday Giveaway

Mr. Hunt is grateful for the opportunity to help clients from all walks of life with their tax preparation and other financial needs.  In fact, he’s continuing his annual Tax First Give Back Program on December 23, 2006.  On this date, Tax First will give away 50 Honey Baked turkeys to the first 50 families as well as free toys for the kids and free refreshments at each of its seven locations.  Mr. Hunt and his staff will also be on hand at the various locations to offer free advice.  Additional information including office addresses can be found on the company’s website, TaxFirst.org .

Leo Hunt has seven TaxFirst offices in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding counties.  

For additional information, please visit TaxFirst.org or call 678-386-7600.

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