Carve Market: Carving trusted community connections.

Legacy of Impact

After decades of running their local grocery and investing in the Butler, Indiana community, Jeff and Laurie Kaiser faced a critical decision. With Jeff’s sister nearing retirement at 65, it was time to sell their family business. “Laurie and I lived in Butler, so it was hard,” Jeff reflects. “But ultimately, it was the right decision for our family.”

With no expectations for what lay ahead, their next chapter emerged through a long-standing connection to Daryle Doden and Ambassador Enterprises. “Daryle’s mother worked for my father. We even lived on the same street when Laurie and I first got married,” Jeff recalls. This relationship led to an opportunity that would transform their lives and the Auburn, Indiana community: Carve Market.

Carve represents more than just an artisan butchery. It’s a vision for rekindling downtown vitality by creating a community hub where people gather and connect over quality food experiences. When Jeff raised concerns about a prior business agreement that might keep him from this opportunity, Daryle’s response embodied Ambassador’s problem-solving approach: “We can structure this differently so it will work for you. You can run it, make it successful, and we’ll work on the details later.”

The transition proved ideal for Jeff. “It felt like I sold a part of my life one day and then stepped into exactly what I wanted to do next; not many people get that chance.” For Laurie, the transition has also been positive. “With our parents getting older, I can be there when they need me. Plus, I now have the flexibility to help Jeff with Carve whenever and wherever I’m needed.”

What sets Carve apart is its commitment to offering superior quality products at competitive prices and providing better choices for families. The market has become a gathering place where customers can walk from their homes, nurturing daily interactions that build strong communities. Regular events like seasonal celebrations, car shows, and children’s activities further strengthen these community bonds.

The Kaiser’s dedication to mentoring youth and developing employees adds another dimension to Carve’s community impact. “I do feel a real responsibility to take kids and develop them into healthy adults,” Jeff explains. “When Laurie and I work side-by-side with someone and see them do good in life, that’s its own reward.”

Carve’s success and impact have drawn the attention of other communities seeking to revitalize their downtowns. “As I talk to other towns about expanding, having Ambassador’s reputation behind you makes a difference,” Jeff notes. “People are hungry for a trusted, purpose-driven company rooted in faith that can help restore vitality to their downtown.”

Through Carve Market, Jeff and Laurie Kaiser have found a new way to extend their legacy of community service, proving that the end of one chapter can lead to an even more impactful beginning. Jeff reflects, “This was Daryle’s vision—a hometown gathering place and hub for community. We’ve got a formula that can reinvigorate almost any small town.”

Learn more about Carve Market.