The Rieve family, residents of the Bloomingdale subdivision in Hurricane, WV, are a dynamic and community-focused family who cherish their time together while making a lasting impact on the lives of those around them. Chad Rieve and Kim Harper-Rieve, along with their children—Austin Harper, Andrew Harper, Justin Rieve, and Claudia Rieve—have called Carpenter Avenue home since 2019, where they’ve built a life full of tradition, adventure, and service to their community.

Kim, originally from Ashland, KY, has been working with preschoolers since 1990 and has owned and directed Stepping Stones Academy Preschool in Hurricane for the past decade. “I’m so blessed to open the doors every morning and see the smiling faces of approximately 62 two- to five-year-olds,” Kim shared with Stroll Hurricane. “Our school is a safe, nurturing environment where children can learn and grow, while parents can focus on their work knowing their child is well cared for and loved.” The preschool plays a critical role in the community, not only preparing children for school but supporting families by providing peace of mind and fostering a sense of connection.

Kim’s work at Stepping Stones goes beyond the classroom. Every year, the preschool organizes a trike-a-thon to benefit children in need, and at Christmas, each class adopts a family to make their holiday wishes come true. The annual Christmas program, held at Teays Valley Church of the Nazarene, is a highlight for the students and their families. “The children perform songs and dances, followed by cookie decorating, ornament making, and pictures with Santa,” Kim explained. “It’s a magical event that brings everyone together.” The preschool also partners with local businesses in Chase Business Park for an exciting day of trick-or-treating, further strengthening the connection between Stepping Stones and the Hurricane community.

Kim's passion for early childhood education is evident in every aspect of her work. Many of her graduates return for summer programs, and it’s not uncommon to see former students out in the community, thriving in elementary school and beyond. “It’s a blessing to be a part of shaping these children’s early lives and watching them grow,” Kim said.

Chad, originally from Cedarburg, WI, shares Kim’s commitment to family and community. A graduate of the prestigious College of Culinary Arts at Johnson & Wales University, Chad worked as an executive chef in several golf and country clubs, and spent many years at Berry Hills, before transitioning to his current role as a sales consultant for Buzz Food Service.

Chad and Kim met through online dating in 2016, and after Chad moved to Hurricane in 2017, their relationship flourished. In 2024, they celebrated their love with two weddings—a family-centered ceremony in Hurricane and a symbolic ceremony in Santorini, Greece. “The Santorini ceremony felt like a dream,” Kim reflected. “It was an unforgettable experience surrounded by close friends.”

The couple’s children are equally accomplished. Austin Harper is completing his master’s in industrial engineering at WVU and will begin work on his Ph.D. at the University of South Carolina in the spring. Andrew Harper works at Paris Signs and plans to continue his IT degree when he moves to South Carolina in 2025. Justin Rieve is pursuing a degree in culinary arts at Carver Technical College and dreams of owning his own restaurant. Claudia Rieve serves as the general manager of Moonshadow Restaurant in Deep Creek, MD.

Even the family pets, Ziggy, a German Shepherd, and Axel, a terrier mix, play a part in the warmth of the Rieve household. The two dogs have grown up together and are best friends, often seen playing in the yard or lounging at home.

Tradition is central to the Rieve family. From Sunday or Monday family dinners where Chad and Kim—both accomplished chefs—cook up creative meals, to heart-shaped pizzas on Valentine’s Day and gingerbread house decorating at Christmas, the family embraces opportunities to bond. Each Christmas, the children receive Nutcrackers from their grandparents, a beloved tradition, while Chad’s signature old-fashioned cocktails bring an extra touch of warmth to holiday gatherings.

The Rieves also find joy in their neighborhood and the broader Hurricane community. “Our neighborhood is more than a place to live—it’s a community,” Kim said. “The families here look out for each other, and it’s so much fun to see the kids playing in the yards and walking through the neighborhood. It’s such a welcoming and friendly place.” Their Bloomingdale home is conveniently located near Charleston and Huntington, giving the family easy access to everything the region offers.

When they’re not busy with work or community activities, the Rieves enjoy outdoor adventures, including golfing, biking, hiking, and skiing. Chad’s favorite destinations include Colorado, Arizona, and Utah, while Kim’s heart belongs to Greece, especially sailing on a catamaran in the Aegean Sea. The family also shares a love for sports, cheering for the Green Bay Packers, Marshall University, and WVU.

Whether through Kim’s transformative work at Stepping Stones, Chad’s culinary expertise, or their shared passion for creating a welcoming community, the Rieve family exemplifies the values of love, service, and connection. They’ve built a life in Hurricane that not only celebrates their own traditions but also enriches the lives of everyone they encounter.