In 2015, Brandon B. Rafi founded Rafi Law Group with a singular mission: to provide every client with care, confidence and comprehensive service that extends beyond legal representation. "Our mission at Rafi Law Group is not only to provide legal support but to be a force for good in our community. Giving back and making a positive impact are at the core of our values," Rafi … [More]
Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships: Key to Sustainable Success
Effectively enhance both business performance and societal impact
“The best partnerships aren’t dependent on a more common goal but on a shared path of equality, desire, and no small amount of passion.” —Sarah MacLean, New York Times bestselling author In today’s competitive business environment, success is not achieved in isolation. Businesses must engage with a wide variety of stakeholders and form meaningful strategic partnerships to … [More]
Leader Resilience – Core of Culture & Organizational Success
And effective in combatting chronic stress and burnout
Chronic stress and burnout are not new to business or leadership. What is significantly different today is the increased levels of leadership chronic stress and their exponential ripple effects on organizations. This article helps leaders understand the relational impacts of burnout and clarifies why prioritizing leader resilience is crucial for organizational health, … [More]
Brewing Compassion: Echo Coffee’s Transformative Journey in Corporate Philanthropy
Echo Coffee, a beloved Scottsdale-based coffee shop, has become a beacon of community engagement and corporate philanthropy under the leadership of its compassionate owner, Rob Rigolfi Jr. Born with deep-rooted family values and a passion for helping others, Rigolfi has seamlessly blended his entrepreneurial spirit with his philanthropic endeavors, creating a unique model of … [More]
Empowering Arizona: Desert Financial’s Legacy of Community Impact and Philanthropy
Focus blends community impact and philanthropy
Desert Financial Credit Union was founded by educators in 1939 with a modest sum of $78.75. Rooted in the principles of cooperation and community, this not-for-profit credit union has grown over 85 years while maintaining its foundational mission of sharing success with members, the community and its team. Strengthening education throughout Arizona remains a core focus for … [More]
The Pursuit of Success by Engaging Premium Talent
Committing to employee development can drive a company’s success
“Companies that recognize the importance of employee engagement and development are better positioned to attract and retain talent.” —Jack Altman in People Strategy In today’s hyper-competitive business environment, the pursuit of success hinges on a company's ability to engage premium talent. The most successful organizations recognize that their greatest asset is their … [More]
Serving Sustainability through Data Center Design
Potential to restore ecological and social amenities
The past decade has seen a boom in data center development. AI, smart devices and advanced technologies have accelerated the demand for data processing, projecting a global generation of 2,100 zettabytes of data by 2035. Arizona is well positioned as a prime location for these facilities due to the low-risk climate and large parcels of land. However, not all see data centers as … [More]
Resilience & Sustainability – Core of Life & Business
Holistic and comprehensive strategy for leadership
While resilience and sustainability have been business considerations for decades, ongoing accelerated change and uncertainty make it imperative to understand their multi-dimensional impact on business viability today. The principles of resilience and sustainability are universal. Today’s column offers business leaders a macro/micro view of organizational resilience and … [More]
Mercy Care: Pioneering Health Access and Community Engagement in Arizona
Since 1985, Mercy Care has been a cornerstone of healthcare access for approximately half a million individuals eligible for Medicaid, Medicare and state and federal grant-funded programs. As a local, nonprofit Medicaid health plan, Mercy Care serves AHCCCS members by providing comprehensive physical and behavioral healthcare services to a diverse population, including … [More]
Engagement and Belonging: Creating a Workplace Conducive to Success
Fundamental to driving sustained growth and innovation
“By focusing on culture, empowerment, benefits, communication, recognition, development, diversity, social responsibility, and fun, Warby Parker ensures its employees are engaged, motivated, and aligned with the company’s mission.” —Neil Blumenthal and Dave Gilboa, co-CEOs at Warby Parker In today's fast-paced and ever-evolving business environment, workplace engagement and a … [More]
Mesquite Fresh: Nourishing the Community with Compassion
Social responsibility is ingrained in its corporate culture
Nestled in the heart of Arizona, Mesquite Fresh Street Mex isn't just a restaurant — it's a vibrant hub of community support and social responsibility. From its humble beginnings, Mesquite Fresh has embraced a mission to give back, forming meaningful partnerships with local organizations to uplift those in need and cultivate a culture of compassion. Central to Mesquite … [More]
Arizona REALTORS: Pioneering Philanthropy for Lasting Social Impact
Powered by a pervasive spirit of volunteerism
Since its establishment in 1945, Arizona REALTORS® has epitomized a commitment to not only facilitating real estate transactions but also to fostering vibrant communities and driving meaningful social change across the state. With a membership exceeding 55,000 professionals, the association stands as a beacon of philanthropy, sustainability and social responsibility, striving … [More]
Resilience – the Core of Today’s Business Strategy
Undoubtedly, the COVID-19 pandemic marked a turning point for both humanity and business. The scale of uncertainty, loss and prolonged threat to physical and financial well-being left deep imprints of chronic stress at a neurological level. The continuing ripple effects on business and society become more apparent when the consequences of chronic stress on the mind, … [More]
What’s In and What’s Out: Workplace Trends for a Changing Workforce
Hybrid is here to stay. As more companies relocate to the Phoenix metro area, focus will be less on how many people come into the office and more on how the office can support individual needs. To evolve with changing demands and earn people’s commutes, the workplace will undergo several other key shifts: from one-size-fits-all to curated destinations; from static office … [More]
Wildflower’s Nourishing Impact
Cultivating corporate responsibility from seed to table
In the bustling landscape of corporate ventures, Wildflower emerges as a beacon of responsibility, rooted in a commitment to serve not only great food but also the broader community. Founded in November 1996, Wildflower, a family-owned business, has grown to operate 16 restaurants in the Phoenix metropolitan area and Northern Arizona, with an additional bread manufacturing … [More]
Nurturing Leadership: Strategies for Building Leaders within Your Organization
"Great leaders don't create followers, they create more leaders." —Tom Peters Within the bustling corridors of modern organizations, the cultivation of effective leadership isn't just desirable — it's imperative. Great leaders aren't born; they are crafted through deliberate efforts and strategies. As the heartbeat of an organization, leaders guide teams, inspire innovation … [More]
RPM Living: A Story of Growth, Values and Corporate Responsibility
Impactful partnerships further efforts to empower and strengthen its communities
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 … [More]
Cultivating a Sense of Purpose in Your Business for Sustainable Success
Key components for integrating it into the workplace culture
“Hopeful people set meaningful goals they believe they can accomplish and identify ways to achieve them.” —Xiye Bastida, youth climate activist In today’s dynamic and competitive business landscape, companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of fostering a sense of purpose within their organizational culture. A strong sense of purpose not only enhances employee … [More]
