Community Spotlight

At the beginning of the year, Real Property Management was introduced to Start 1 Spark by a mutual friend. With a strong desire to give back to the community in which they manage homes and work alongside residents, Real Property Management was ready to roll up their sleeves and make a difference beyond their day-to-day operations.

 

“We decided to volunteer with Start 1 Spark because of the unique opportunity to support local students and help provide experiences and resources that can make a difference in their future,” shared Mark Smith, Business Development Manager. “We also liked that Start 1 Spark gives businesses an opportunity to get directly involved and make a hands-on impact.”

 

In the spring, Real Property Management staff donned bright yellow vests and helped direct “cool cars” to the Zoomie Car Show at Salem Church Middle School. For the team, it was more than helping with event logistics. Smith said seeing the students light up with enthusiasm and curiosity was especially meaningful.

 

But their involvement didn’t stop there. 

 

Throughout the summer, the team has been helping design and build a mobile stage for Brookland Middle School’s drama club. Without an auditorium, Brookland performances are often held on the gym floor, in the cafeteria, or even in a classroom. The new elevated stage will give students a dedicated performing space that can be moved throughout the school’s campus to wherever it is needed.

 

For Real Property Management, volunteering with Start 1 Spark has been an opportunity to put their skills - and their teamwork - to work in a new way.

 

“Volunteering with Start 1 Spark gave our team an opportunity to step outside of our normal roles, work together, and contribute to something that has a real-life impact,” said Smith. “We have really enjoyed the opportunity to work with Start 1 Spark and would encourage other local businesses to get involved.”

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“As a company that manages homes across the Richmond area, we believe it is important to give back to the communities that support our business and that we are fortunate enough to contribute. Start 1 Spark has given us a great way to do that while directly supporting students in our community.”

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Community is stronger when we show up for one another. Whether it’s helping at a school event, putting skills to work on a hands-on project, or simply rolling up your sleeves alongside students and volunteers, there are many ways to make an impact.

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We’re grateful to Real Property Management for showing us what it looks like when a local business chooses to invest in its community—and we hope their example inspires others to join us.