When Pangea Properties first formed in 2008, the Chicago-based company established a mission to implement “service, value, and care–one resident at a time.” Since then, the REIT has transformed communities throughout Chicago, Indianapolis, and Baltimore with quality affordable housing and service programs. Chanelle Cromwell, Head of Pangea Cares, has witnessed the difference that the Pangea Cares foundation makes in communities. “We don’t just invest in buildings, we invest in the success of our communities,” says Cromwell. “Pangea is very data-centric and we use data as the engine in our decision-making process.” Data has encouraged the firm to pursue success for its communities in three sectors. Education + Technology “We provide access to education and technology to youth that helps bridge the divide that exists for many kids living in the neighborhoods that Pangea serves,” explains Cromwell. One such program is the annual Backpack Giveaway, a partnership with the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA). Pangea Cares raises the funds to buy school supplies. The organization then coordinates with CHA to purchase and assemble more than 400 backpacks. Kids ages 5-12 received backpacks stuffed with essential school supplies to help them start the year with confidence and the proper tools. This year will mark the sixth year of the Backpack Giveaway program. A newer addition to the Education and Technology program is B’more, Read More. Baltimore Walbrook Junction neighborhood, home to more than 150 kids, hosts a free library for the public. The tiny library was in need new literature for its shelves. “Pangea donated 30 books to the library, providing a fresh wealth of informative and imaginative literature for local kids,” says Cromwell. Health + Wellness Pangea Cares focuses on the health and wellness of residents by making fresh food and recreational activities available to their communities. The team has gotten quite creative in finding ways to serve members of the community. Pangea Cares collaborated with Julie Hightower of a Better Day with Julie, The Daisie Foundation and many other organizations to give moms in Chicago a free makeover. “More than 150 mothers were invited to the event, which boosted their confidence, provided much-needed networking opportunities, and provided a respite from their daily routines,” Cromwell says. For youth, the company’s Indianapolis properties hosted an ongoing summer event that provided nutritious lunches daily for children of low-income families. The kids had lunch and a movie matinee, meeting their need for nutritious nourishment and activities over the summer months. “Overall, the teams were able to provide lunches for hundreds of children!” Cromwell said. Pangea Cares partnered again with CHA and Operation Warm to ensure CHA youth were warm, healthy and ready to learn during the cooler months. The organizations distributed more than 10,000 winter coats to local youth in need. Dignity + Beautification Pangea Cares believes that a beautiful and safe neighborhood brings communities together. “We are committed to community beautification and striving to make areas we serve ones that residents and communities can be proud of,” says Cromwell. Such efforts include frequent Habitat for Humanity builds in Chicago and Indianapolis. Pangea Cares has also taken on a Play More B’more playground build project. The local non-profit works with other organizations to construct fun and accessible playgrounds in marginalized communities. “They put in some serious manpower to build a brand new playground for the children of the community,” says Cromwell. Show love for your local Pangea community by contacting the organization to volunteer or make a donation. To learn more about how other Yardi clients are Energized for Good, check out our Giving...