Third Annual IMPACT Dinner Highlights a Year of Service and Partnership in Austin
On Thursday, April 30th, the Austin Apartment Association Foundation hosted the 3rd Annual IMPACT Dinner, bringing together members, elected officials, and city leadership to celebrate our collective efforts in service and community initiatives.
Members, city officials, staff, and community partners gathered to connect over a shared meal and recognize the impact of our collaborations. The evening began with remarks from CEO Emily Blair, who reflected on the past year and highlighted AAA’s contributions to the community. Over the past year, members contributed more than 1,000 hours of service, including volunteer work at the Hays, Williamson, and Travis County food banks, as well as donation drives supporting organizations like Dress for Success.
We also celebrated our continued commitment to supporting teachers and first responders. Currently, 90 properties offer incentives to Austin ISD employees, and 100 properties participate in the Apartner in Safety Alliance Program, providing incentives to first responders.
Alexis Denny, Senior Director of the Goodwill Career and Technical Academy, spoke about the strong partnership between Goodwill’s Career Center and the multifamily industry. She highlighted the program’s impact in empowering individuals and creating career pathways within the industry, sharing powerful stories from program participants.
The evening concluded with an inspiring keynote from City of Austin Assistant City Manager Dr. Eric A. Johnson, who oversees Housing, Planning, Development Services, Economic Development, and the Austin Convention Center Department. Dr. Johnson emphasized the importance of viewing housing as infrastructure and as a driver of economic development. He spoke about the need to maintain affordability so residents can allocate income beyond housing costs, and highlighted recent progress in development services, housing, and planning to support the creation of diverse housing options across Austin.
Beyond the celebration, the event sparked meaningful conversations that are already inspiring new ideas for how we can further support our community. Our members remain committed to expanding efforts and developing innovative solutions to address the city’s evolving challenges.
A special thank you to Dr. Eric A. Johnson, Judge Tanisa Jeffers, Justice of the Peace Precinct 1-elect Ciara Parks, Alexis Garcia from the Mayor’s Office, Isabel Webb Carey from Council Member Laine’s Office, Ramey Ko from Council Member Vela’s Office, and Sean Morrow from Council Member Harper-Madison’s Office, as well as Austin Firefighters Association President David Giroard, Austin EMS Association representatives Jon Kalinowski and Erin Chavez, and Austin Police Association representative Chris Juusola. We are grateful for your partnership and look forward to continued collaboration in making Austin a better place for all.