As I reflect on my journey in leadership, both within the hospitality industry and through my community efforts, one thing stands out to me: leadership isn’t just about making decisions or driving business success—it’s about using your position to build strong, thriving communities. A true leader’s influence goes far beyond the walls of their business or organization. It extends into the neighborhoods, causes, and people they serve.
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to lead teams and organizations that have had a tangible impact on their communities. Whether through direct charitable initiatives or by fostering a culture of giving within the companies I’ve worked for, I’ve seen firsthand the profound effect that leaders can have on social change. In this blog, I want to reflect on some of the ways leaders can create lasting social impact and the role community plays in shaping the future.
The Power of Giving Back
One of the most impactful lessons I’ve learned throughout my career is that leadership isn’t just about what you do for yourself or your business—it’s about what you can do for others. Leaders have the unique opportunity to leverage their position to support causes that matter, whether it’s supporting local charities, championing social causes, or contributing to the well-being of underserved communities.
During my time at Drais Enterprises, I had the privilege of working with an incredible team that was deeply committed to making a difference. One of our key initiatives was partnering with local organizations to provide support to those in need. For example, we helped raise funds and collect supplies for The Shade Tree, a shelter for women and children dealing with abuse. We didn’t just donate money or goods; we got personally involved, preparing and serving meals to the shelter’s participants during Thanksgiving.
These experiences showed me that philanthropy goes beyond writing a check—it’s about rolling up your sleeves and getting involved, showing people that you care and are willing to make an effort to improve their lives. Giving back isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. The impact you can make is far-reaching, and the rewards come in ways you may not even expect, from the gratitude of those you help to the deep sense of fulfillment it brings.
Fostering a Culture of Giving Within Your Organization
While personal charity is important, I’ve come to understand that one of the most powerful ways to create lasting social impact is by cultivating a culture of giving within the organizations you lead. When the people around you—your team, colleagues, and even customers—feel inspired and empowered to give, the impact is exponentially greater.
At Drais Enterprises, one of our proudest achievements was establishing initiatives that encouraged both employees and customers to get involved in giving back. For example, during the holidays, we worked with the Las Vegas Metro Police Department to host a toy drive. In exchange for a toy donation, we offered free entrance to concerts, which not only helped the local children but also allowed our guests to participate in a cause they felt passionate about.
By making giving part of the organizational culture, leaders can inspire others to contribute, creating a ripple effect of positive change. It also allows for the collective power of many to work toward a common goal. A company’s social responsibility efforts are amplified when employees feel like they are contributing to something bigger than just their day-to-day tasks. It fosters a sense of pride, loyalty, and shared purpose that ultimately benefits the community.
Creating Lasting Change Through Partnership
Leaders don’t have to act alone when it comes to creating lasting social impact. In fact, some of the most significant and sustainable change happens when leaders collaborate with other organizations and individuals who share the same goals. Partnerships create opportunities to pool resources, expertise, and manpower, increasing the overall effectiveness of a given initiative.
One such example was our work with the Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth (NPHY). Together, we raised money to provide basic necessities like shoes, toiletries, and snacks for children living in precarious situations. We also provided donations to help equip their house with toys and technology that would keep kids engaged in education, preventing them from falling through the cracks. The NPHY provides crucial support to homeless youth, and our partnership with them allowed us to contribute in a meaningful, lasting way.
Working with like-minded organizations and individuals creates a sense of unity that can amplify impact. It teaches us that we’re all in this together. Whether it’s supporting local schools, homeless shelters, or organizations focused on children’s welfare, collaborating with others can lead to lasting, wide-reaching change.
Using Leadership to Inspire Action
One of the key roles of a leader is to inspire action—whether it’s motivating a team to hit a business target, encouraging a community to get involved in a cause, or urging others to give back. Inspiration is a tool that leaders must use intentionally to drive meaningful change.
Throughout my career, I’ve made it a point to lead by example. I’ve been involved in a number of charitable efforts, from sponsoring backpacks for children at Arturo Cambeiro Elementary School to supporting the Boys and Girls Club of Southern Nevada by hosting a private pool party for local youth. It’s not just about participating in charity events, though; it’s about actively encouraging others to take part as well.
By demonstrating your commitment to causes that matter, you set a standard for others to follow. The act of inspiring action often starts with small steps—whether it’s leading a team in a fundraiser or setting up a volunteer opportunity. But when people see their leader giving back, they’re more likely to follow suit and get involved themselves. As a leader, you have the unique ability to influence others to act, and that’s a powerful tool when you’re working toward creating lasting social impact.
The Long-Term Impact of Strong Communities
At the end of the day, creating strong, vibrant communities isn’t just about what leaders do in the moment—it’s about leaving a legacy that endures long after you’ve moved on. The initiatives I’ve been involved with over the years—from providing supplies to children in need to supporting local shelters—have had an impact that continues to benefit those communities today.
As leaders, we must view our role not just as one of influence and decision-making but also as one of responsibility. Our actions, both in business and in our personal lives, ripple out into the world and touch countless lives. By focusing on building strong communities, fostering partnerships, and inspiring action, we can create a legacy of positive social change that lasts for generations.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy Through Community Leadership
Building strong communities is one of the most meaningful ways a leader can create lasting social impact. Whether it’s through direct charitable efforts, creating a culture of giving within your organization, or forming strategic partnerships, leaders have the power to make a real difference. The impact of these efforts can transform lives, strengthen communities, and leave a legacy that will continue to inspire long after the work is done. Leadership isn’t just about achieving business goals—it’s about using your influence to build a better, more compassionate world.