Scott Ballina, senior director, inclusion, diversity & community impact at AvalonBay Communities, Inc. (NYSE: AVB), sat down for a video interview at Nareit’s REITwise: 2026 Educational Conference in Hollywood, Florida, March 24–26.
Ballina said AvalonBay Communities’ approach to inclusion and community impact is rooted in measurable behaviors and business outcomes rather than abstract goals. “We don’t talk about this in sort of abstract concepts,” Ballina said. “We really concentrate on what behaviors can each of us adopt that are going to make our colleagues feel like they can fully participate.”
A key metric for the company is associate engagement, highlighted by its “Volapalooza” initiative, which mobilized 58% of employees and generated more than 13,000 volunteer hours in local communities. These efforts not only strengthen neighborhoods but also foster internal collaboration. Ballina noted that such initiatives create “opportunities for associates…to connect and get to know one another,” reinforcing teamwork across the organization.
From an investor perspective, AvalonBay ties inclusion directly to performance. Citing research that inclusive teams can “increase innovation by 30% and reduce risk by 20%,” Ballina emphasized that diverse perspectives lead to better decision-making and safer operations. The company also tracks “belonging” through employee surveys, using benchmark data to drive continuous improvement.
Importantly, AvalonBay integrates workforce initiatives and community impact into a single strategic narrative. Inclusion, talent development, and philanthropy are aligned with broader business priorities—supporting thriving communities, enhancing brand reputation, and ultimately driving long-term value, Ballina added.