Phoenix Rising FC is leaving a lasting mark both on and off the field with its signature community program, “Reading with Rising.” This innovative initiative inspires young readers and fosters a love for literacy while deepening the club’s ties to the vibrant Phoenix community. By blending the excitement of professional soccer with the power of storytelling, the program … [More]
Leadership and Emotional Intelligence: Key to Effective Leadership Success
“Leadership is not domination, but the art of persuading people to work toward a common goal.” —Daniel Goleman Emotional intelligence has become an essential component of effective leadership in today’s fast-paced and dynamic work environments. Leaders who possess a high degree of emotional intelligence are better equipped to understand, manage and influence their emotions … [More]
Serving More Than Plates: M Culinary’s Philanthropy in Action
How a culinary giant is nourishing the community and transforming lives
From its humble beginnings as a fine dining establishment, M Culinary has grown into the Southwest’s largest privately held catering and hospitality provider. However, this journey isn’t just about culinary excellence or national recognition; it’s about a deep-seated commitment to community impact. Beyond the mouthwatering menus and iconic events, M Culinary stands as a model … [More]
Resilience – Core of Innovation
Identify and foster fundamental traits of innovation
The purpose of this column is twofold: to expand leaders’ awareness of the exponential impact that individual resilience has on organizational success, and to elevate its consideration as a highly prudent strategy for long-term organizational sustainability in times of tumultuous change. Today’s topic is the impact of individual resilience on innovation. Innovation is … [More]
Windows of Impact: Renewal by Andersen’s Commitment to Community
Through compassion and connection, building a brighter future one family at a time
Renewal by Andersen, the replacement window division of Andersen Corporation, has long been known for its superior craftsmanship and innovation. However, the company’s charitable efforts, powered by its affiliate group Esler Companies, showcase a side of the organization that prioritizes people over profit. Esler Companies’ “With LOVE” philosophy serves as the foundation of a … [More]
Construction Costs in Commercial Real Estate: A 2025 Outlook
Economic, material and labor market dynamics
Although construction costs are estimated to be relatively flat year over year, with a moderate increase of 5–7% projected, there are many variables that can affect this estimate so early in the year. Construction costs in the commercial real estate sector are driven by a combination of economic, material and labor market dynamics. Factors such as natural disasters, a changing … [More]
Arizona Lottery: Empowering Arizona through Philanthropy
Building a better future one ticket at a time
The Arizona Lottery has been a transformative force for good since its establishment in 1981, creating far more than winners with its games of chance. Behind every Scratchers ticket and Powerball play is a mission to fund vital programs and initiatives that shape the lives of Arizonans and the state’s future. Through its philanthropy and community engagement, the Lottery has … [More]
Surviving Organizational Change in a Turbulent World
Turning challenges into opportunities for growth
“Once a year, go someplace you have never been before.” —Dalai Lama If there is one thing that remains constant, it’s change! In today’s volatile global environment, businesses face the pressure to evolve and adapt quickly to survive. Political and economic fluctuations, technological advances, social change and environmental challenges create a turbulent landscape in which … [More]
The Future of Mixed-Use Communities in Phoenix
The 5 T’s are the new 5 C’s
For more than a century, Arizona’s economy has heavily relied on the 5 C’s: copper, climate, citrus, cattle and cotton. Even today, the 5 C’s serve as defining elements of Greater Phoenix’s cultural identity. But Arizona’s capital and its surrounding metropolitan area have experienced remarkable growth in recent years; as a metropolitan area, Phoenix is one of the fastest … [More]
Amazon’s Community Commitment: Bringing Holiday Joy to Phoenix Children’s
Toyland is holiday magic
Amazon’s impact reaches far beyond its massive logistics network, touching the lives of families and communities across the country. In Phoenix, Amazon's partnership with Phoenix Children’s Hospital exemplifies this commitment, bringing much-needed holiday cheer to families facing the challenge of hospital stays during the season. Each December, Phoenix Children’s Hospital … [More]
Building Resilient Teams – The Core of Organizational Agility
Achieving sustainable, long-term success
Organizational agility, the capacity of an organization to adapt, respond to challenges and innovate, is often viewed through a project management lens. However, Agile principles also serve as leadership principles that guide organizational agility. At the core of both is resilience, the capacity for individuals to learn, adapt and grow through constant change and challenge. … [More]
Plexus Worldwide Nourishes Communities
Founded with a commitment to hope, health and impact
Founded in 2008 by Tarl Robinson and Alec Clark, Plexus Worldwide has grown from selling its Breast Chek™ Kit to offering more than 20 health and wellness products, including its flagship "pink drink" Slim Microbiome Activating. Yet, beyond Plexus's product line and its expansion into international markets like Canada, Mexico and Australia, its true impact can be felt in its … [More]
Rafi Law Group: Commitment Beyond the Courtroom
Core values encompass community and compassion
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]
