15 Minutes with AAFW-NEI Board Member, Monica Richardson
How and why did you initially become involved in the AAFW-NEI and choose to become involved in the Board?
I have over 25 years of experience in multi-family housing, starting as a part time leasing consultant moving up to my current position as a property manager. I have been fortunate to gain the diversity in the industry through working for large property management as well as smaller family owed companies. Many would describe me as a direct, loyal and fair manager with a strong work ethic. Marketing and thinking outside the box to enhance the WOW factor is something I am passionate about. Whether it is for a vendor, prospect, employee or resident!
What Do You See as the Biggest Obstacle That the AAFW-NEI Faces in 2023 & beyond?
Membership and financial growth and participation.
What Have You Gained from being an AAFW-NEI Member?
The ability to network with fellow manager, management companies, as well as vendors.
What is the Best Advice You Would Give Someone That is Interested in Being on the AAFW-NEI Board of Directors?
Although I have only been on the board for a few short months, my advice would be to be open minded, collaborative and not afraid to speak up
or share your ideas.
What Do You Want People Outside of the AAFW-NEI to Know About Our Organization?
When I describe the association to people outside the industry, I describe AAFW as a place that nurtures the industry’s culture. That the association is always there to establish lines of communication between communities,vendors, and management companies. That we strive to give back to our community through fundraising drives. Providing the convenience of educationprograms, affording members, the ability to learn in an atmosphere that may not be available to them otherwise.
What New Program or Direction would you like to see the AAFW-NEI offer?
Continue or increase the number of fund raising campaigns.
3 Words that describe the AAFW-NEI? - Supportive, Accommodating, Connected
4 Words that describe you best? - Family-oriented, Witty, Driven and Motivating
What is something no one would guess about you?
That I am really shy at first and ride the struggle bus when it comes to speaking in large groups.