Smith & Associates Community Giving Program
Smith & Associates is the largest locally owned independent real estate brokerage in Tampa Bay and has been deeply involved in the community since 1968. For over fifty years we have committed to our mission of positively impacting the community in an ongoing active effort to make Tampa Bay a better place to live and grow. With a focus on empowering and uplifting diversity, equality, well-being, and access, we strive to be a responsible corporate citizen by recognizing our ability and responsibility to improve our communities' cultural, environmental, social, and economic conditions.
Our Approach to Community Giving
Smith & Associates Real Estate community giving program is designed to build strong partnerships with non-profit organizations, civic organizations, and other local organizations that are striving to make a difference across Tampa Bay. Our giving program focuses on four elements:
1. Charitable giving and in-kind donations to non-profit organizations
Our community giving strategy focuses on supporting non-profit organizations that align with our three giving pillars:
-
Housing
-
Community Vibrancy
-
Positive Education and Mental Well-Being
This support is provided through Smith sponsorships, Smith marketing, and/or the Smith & Associates Real Estate Foundation.
2. Sales associate and employee giving and volunteerism
We value the efforts of our sales associates and employees to give back to the causes and organizations that are meaningful to them. To support their passions and dedication, we align donations to these non-profit organizations and provide support for volunteer engagements.
3. Involvement in local civic, arts, and cultural organizations
Smith & Associates sales associates and employees have a passion for engaging directly with local civic organizations with their time and talents. By serving on committees and boards they use their unique skills and experiences to effectively collaborate and create solutions that help empower these organizations to achieve more.
4. Inspiring Philanthropy
Charitable giving is more than just a way to strengthen our communities and support causes dear to our hearts. Philanthropy is a central part of Smith’s mission, values, and legacy. We strive to ensure this legacy is strengthened and expanded by inspiring others to engage directly in their communities to drive positive impacts and outcomes.
Giving Pillars
Housing
Purpose:
To improve safe and diverse housing options and access in the Tampa Bay region. These projects will include support of low-income housing, special needs housing, rental assistance programs and homeless shelters.
Rationale:
A safe affordable and stable housing is one of the basic requisites of life—a key to individual health and well-being, and the foundation for sustainable, economically vibrant and diverse neighborhoods. Improving housing options and access uplifts individuals, families, and communities.
Population:
Primarily funding priority will be given to at-risk, vulnerable, and special needs populations.
Community Vibrancy
Purpose:
To improve local communities through access and appreciation of arts and the diversity of culture; flourishing local environmental resources; and collaboration among residents. These types of projects will include arts and culture projects to engage the community and celebrate its diversity; resiliency and environmental sustainability enhancements; and local community-based projects for community improvement and increased inclusion.
Rationale:
Residents of engaged communities are more likely to be healthy, well-educated, and secure. A vibrant, active, and inclusive community is essential for the well-being of its residents and for building a strong sense of community.
Population:
While all communities will be included, those which serve an at-risk and vulnerable populations will be given potential funding priority.
Positive Education and Mental Well-Being
Purpose:
Promoting diverse and inclusive environments that meet individuals where they are developing and emphasize a growth and mental wellness mindset in encouraging them to connect with their passions and potential, cope with the stresses of life, and progress in their academic and work careers.
Rationale:
Depression, addiction, and discrimination are on the rise in our communities, and those experiencing mental health conditions can be further impacted by stigma, which is caused by fear and a lack of understanding. Positive education and mental wellness and diversity and inclusion programs are a strength-based approach that emphasizes critical life skills and promotes and nurtures diverse and inclusive communities.
Population:
Community members experiencing challenges with inclusion, mental wellness, and access to education.