In 2002, Jason Berkowitz founded RPM Living in Austin, Texas, managing a mere 10 units. Today, this real estate powerhouse has extended its influence far beyond its origins, making a significant impact in Arizona, emerging as a vital force in the region’s growth and well-being.
With a portfolio now spanning more than 180,000 units across more than 45 markets, RPM Living has achieved remarkable growth, securing the No. 6 spot on the NMHC Top 50 Largest Apartment Manager list in 2023. Arizona, with its thriving communities, has been a strategic focus for RPM Living’s expansion, exemplifying the company’s unwavering commitment to creating exceptional living environments.
At the heart of RPM Living’s success lies its charitable arm, RPM Serves, operating with a mission to empower and strengthen communities. In Arizona, RPM Living has formed impactful partnerships, with initiatives like the RPM Impact Fund providing short-term support to associates in times of need. Since its launch in 2022, the fund has assisted 17 Arizona-based associates, showcasing the company’s commitment to the well-being of its team.
The commitment extends beyond financial assistance. RPM Serves actively engages in local volunteer efforts, contributing nearly 2,000 hours in the first half of 2023 alone. The company’s involvement in the local community is exemplified through its support for Foundation Communities, a nonprofit in Arizona providing affordable homes and support services.
RPM Living’s impact isn’t confined to human well-being. The company has made significant strides in animal welfare in Arizona through its support of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. At the annual leadership conference, attended by 1,000 leaders, more than $11,000 was raised for the ASPCA in 2023. This contribution, combined with RPM Living’s ongoing support, resonates deeply with Arizonans passionate about animal rights.
Beyond philanthropy, RPM Living encourages associates to actively participate in local organizations. Lindsay Jacobs, RPM Serves chair and SVP of Marketing, serves as the VP of Arts for the Sequoya Elementary PTA; volunteers for Home Fur Good, a nonprofit animal rescue organization; and supports Arizona Helping Hands, dedicated to assisting children in foster care throughout Arizona.
Associates in Arizona and beyond are not only given the opportunity to give back through eight paid volunteer hours per quarter but are also encouraged to join RPM Serves. The committee’s structure, mirroring that of a nonprofit, fosters a culture where extraordinary individuals thrive by contributing to the betterment of their local communities.
Jacobs shares her perspective on the company’s ethos, saying, “It’s an honor to work for a company that not only encourages volunteer work but provides paid time off to ensure each associate of RPM Living has the opportunity to pay their ‘civic’ rent and better their local community.”
RPM Living’s commitment to giving back expands further with the introduction of RPM Serves’ three pillars: Housing, Empowerment and Families & Companions. These pillars strategically guide the company’s efforts to contribute to organizations that create a sense of home and community for those in need.
The Housing pillar focuses on providing accessible housing solutions and safe, healthy living environments for those in need, aligning with RPM Living’s dedication to creating exceptional living spaces.
The Empowerment pillar aims to inspire and educate underprivileged individuals with limited access to funds, resources or opportunities, aligning with RPM Living’s commitment to empowering communities and contributing to their overall growth.
The Families & Companions pillar seeks to support children and families in need of basic essentials and advocates for and improves the lives of all animals, aligning with the company’s impactful partnerships and contributions to organizations like Foundation Communities and the ASPCA.
At a local level, RPM Living encourages associates to find volunteer opportunities that align with RPM Serves’ three pillars. Associates are also welcome to give back to any effort or organization they are passionate about. Nationally, the company leads several companywide efforts each year that align with its pillars, such as Toys for Tots, Soles4Souls and The Trevor Project.
As an avid supporter of the Human Rights Campaign and in support of Pride Month, the company offers an RPM-branded Pride-themed shirt each year, with proceeds directly supporting The Trevor Project. Associates are encouraged to wear these shirts during Pride events attended by RPM and on Fridays throughout the summer.
The company’s annual Toys for Tots toy drive engages all properties and corporate offices, donating more than 6,700 toys in the past two years. The annual Soles4Souls shoe drive, held to coincide with back-to-school, donated more than 400 pairs of shoes during the 2022 campaign.
In addition to the annual companywide initiatives, associates are empowered to organize and lead efforts (with the support of the committee) to give back to local organizations and charities and to further engage associates and residents. RPM Living’s commitment to giving back is not just a corporate strategy; it’s ingrained in the culture, fostering a sense of responsibility and community among its associates and residents alike.
As RPM Living continues to thrive and expand its footprint, the company’s impact goes beyond managing units and corporate rankings. It is about fostering sustainable growth, vibrant communities and a profound sense of responsibility. Arizona, with its diverse landscapes and communities, serves as a living testament to RPM Living’s commitment to being a positive force in every market it touches. The journey that began with ten units in Austin has evolved into a remarkable tale of corporate success intertwined with a genuine dedication to the well-being of individuals, families and the community at large.
Tyler Butler is a chief social impact officer for a publicly traded corporate portfolio where she leads programs that positively impact humanity. She is also the founder of 11Eleven Consulting, and she is often cited as a subject matter expert by Forbes, SHRM, Entrepreneur, U.S. News & World Report and more.
