FLEMING ISLAND – Clay County, meet Matthew C. Thibert, a local entrepreneur with quite a fascinating backstory.

Thibert, who formerly lived in Michigan and Texas, finally settled on Fleming Island eight months ago.

Just five months after making the over 1,000-mile leap, Thirbet made a major realization that he desperately wanted to leave his former industry: tree cutting.

Thus, the young entrepreneur elected to shift to the small business model about 20 weeks after relocating to the state.

During his time as a tree-cutter, Thibert learned life high above the ground can be highly dangerous at times.

“The first year that I started, more tree workers died than marines serving in the military. You just have to make sure that you’re not in the way,” he said, recalling the not only gruesome but also shocking statistical figure. Thibert certainly wants to save his neck, but he’s got more than just himself on the line. Matthew has a family to feed, but for the hardworking man, it’s about more than just the money. It’s about his safety. That’s because he has five children and a wife that he would prefer to return home to after he’s finished with his 9-5 duties. The businessman desired to stay safe during the process of earning a paycheck, but during the process of creating a business, Thibert launched a unique service combining his wide array of skills that also has a memorable brand: The Helpful Jack, LLC.

Thibert launched his business just four months ago in August. A one-man wrecking crew, Thibert currently works alone. That may change, but one thing is clear: in the meantime, nothing will deter him from his goal. Cleaning services offered include commercial, construction, residential, deep, light, carpet, gutter, move-out cleaning, along with window washing and janitorial services.

Meanwhile, his Rolodex of handyman help includes door handle and lock replacement, door replacement, drywall repair, grout removal and replacement, interior caulking, landscaping, light electrical and plumbing and painting.

With a successful business model, a large family and plenty of fun activities available in his new North Florida home, Matthew doesn’t plan on leaving the county anytime soon.

He enjoys going on walks, bike rides and “wetting the line.”

Not only that, but Thibert and his family have also transitioned smoothly into their new community, with him and his six counterparts surviving (and thriving) in their new Floridian neighborhood.

“It has been great. My neighbors have been very friendly,” Thibert said. 

While he’s a Clay County resident, make no mistake: Duval also holds a special place in his heart. That’s not because he enjoys recreating at Jacksonville Beach with his family, but also because that’s where The Helpful Jack, LLC originally took off before Thibert fully established his name in rural Clay and Jacksonville.

There are several municipalities within county borders, but Thibert said that his current customer base resides on Fleming Island, Orange Park, Green Cove Springs and portions of Middleburg.

But that’s not all, as Matthew is hoping customers will answer his call to action as the Christmas holiday rapidly approaches.

In the spirit of the season, Thibert is seeking to tack on a 21st item to his already fast-growing list of services: hanging Christmas lights. “I’m hoping to hang some Christmas lights for people. That’s what I’ve been advertising. So if anyone needs that, get a hold of me,” he said.

Business is business, but both Clay County and the surrounding area have made a lasting impact on Thibert and his family, so Matthew doesn’t plan on leaving anytime soon.

“The sun beats the snow any day,” he said. You can call or text Matthew at (810) 423-1373, or you can visit you can email him at thehelpfuljack@gmail.com or direct message him on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083111569805.