Scott Ballina, senior director, inclusion, variety & group affect at AvalonBay Communities, Inc. (NYSE: AVB), sat down for a video interview at Nareit’s REITwise: 2026 Instructional Convention in Hollywood, Florida, March 24–26.
Ballina stated AvalonBay Communities’ method to inclusion and group affect is rooted in measurable behaviors and enterprise outcomes reasonably than summary targets. “We don’t discuss this in form of summary ideas,” Ballina stated. “We actually consider what behaviors can every of us undertake which are going to make our colleagues really feel like they’ll absolutely take part.”
A key metric for the corporate is affiliate engagement, highlighted by its “Volapalooza” initiative, which mobilized 58% of workers and generated greater than 13,000 volunteer hours in native communities. These efforts not solely strengthen neighborhoods but additionally foster inner collaboration. Ballina famous that such initiatives create “alternatives for associates…to attach and get to know each other,” reinforcing teamwork throughout the group.
From an investor perspective, AvalonBay ties inclusion on to efficiency. Citing analysis that inclusive groups can “improve innovation by 30% and cut back danger by 20%,” Ballina emphasised that numerous views result in higher decision-making and safer operations. The corporate additionally tracks “belonging” via worker surveys, utilizing benchmark knowledge to drive steady enchancment.
Importantly, AvalonBay integrates workforce initiatives and group affect right into a single strategic narrative. Inclusion, expertise improvement, and philanthropy are aligned with broader enterprise priorities—supporting thriving communities, enhancing model popularity, and in the end driving long-term worth, Ballina added.
