In a world that is full of constant uncertainty, one thing is definite: we have a finite period of time on this earth to make an impact. As many of you know, I am fascinated by people who made an extraordinary, positive impact on the world during their lifetimes. Their existence changed the trajectory of the world. I am so enthralled by this concept that I collect books signed by some of these people. I hold these books and imagine the greatness of the authors. I imagine their struggles. I ponder how I can learn from them to grow personally and professionally. Hearing their stories, I then wonder, if a human being can make a positive difference, can a company? The answer, of course, is yes.

Think of companies like Tesla, Patagonia or Nike. While not perfect, they changed the way people live their lives. Is it possible for The Bozzuto Group to leave a similarly profound legacy on the world? It most certainly is, but it is up to you to build that legacy.

Our unique ability to create sanctuary differentiates us from our competitors and other innovative companies. We have an opportunity to tap into the fundamental essence of human existence—solving the basic needs of shelter and community. However, The Bozzuto Group doesn’t stop at those basic needs. Instead, we elevate the lives of our residents through the creation of extraordinary experiences. We design and build beautiful places that allow our residents to live their best lives. We make our residents feel special and part of a community—a part of our Bozzuto family.

If each of us focuses every day on small things we can do to improve the lives of our customers, imagine the impact we can make. Each day presents us with an opportunity to think outside of the box and make a difference. Let’s be observant and listen to the needs of our residents. Think of our residents as your own family, and open your hearts and minds to their needs. If they are sad, find a way to uplift them. If they are happy, celebrate with them. Use your incredible creativity and intelligence to find ways to touch their lives, one day and one person at a time. Remember, acts of kindness—such as a welcoming smile, holding the door or even meaningful conversations—go a long way.

A few examples: recently, I attended a dinner celebrating The Courts of Devon for their #1 ORA ranking, a spectacular achievement. During dinner, we asked a kind woman at the adjacent table to take our photo. When she learned we were from Bozzuto, she told us how much she enjoyed living in a Bozzuto community in Washington. We subtly took a note of her name, and the next day sent her a bouquet of flowers telling her how much we appreciated her. She was deeply touched. On another recent occasion, I met a woman in Maryland whose daughter had just moved to a Bozzuto community in Chicago. She told me how incredibly happy her daughter was living at our community. We sent the resident a gift card to a local restaurant with a kind note. She was blown away. Best of all, this gift arrived on her birthday, which made her day even more special.

Delivering extraordinary experiences and showing kindness creates joy for those we serve. If each of you seeks out these beautiful opportunities, I know you will feel both professionally and personally fulfilled. In the words of the Dalai Lama, “If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.”

At this moment, each of our 2,700 associates has an opportunity to create the gift of sanctuary. Together, we can touch the lives of others in a positive and emotionally resonant way. Imagine the impact we can make upon the world by igniting joy in the lives of those we serve.