5 reasons why giving back to the community works
A question we are repeatedly asked is “How do you find time to give back to the community?”. For us, this idea isn’t new. It is something we have incorporated into the Cadence business model from the beginning. We understand in order for a project to achieve its maximum potential, it is key that social, environmental and economical implications must exist in a harmonious balance. It is this PEOPLE-PLANET-PROFIT approach that we are committed to every day.
Below are five reasons why building community outreach into our business model is important to us, and how it can work for any business.
1. It embetters our community.
This is the community in which we live, work, and enjoy our spare time. It only makes sense to invest directly back into it. By allotting a portion of time to give back, you can easily effect positive change into the place where you call home. By working together, we are collectively creating an attractive and livable city for everyone.
2. We practice what we preach.
We are Landscape Architects, our official definition of our profession is “stewards of the land.” And we take that seriously. We understand the business we conduct affects both the physical and social landscapes where we work. We started our company with the simple value of abiding by the Golden Rule — treat others as you wish to be treated. We could not encourage clients to be responsible developers or homeowners in regard to their community and surrounding environment if we did not do that ourselves. Since opening in 2010, we have worked diligently to bring Fort Lauderdale meaningful projects, demonstrations, gatherings, and long-lasting improvements — which we like to think has helped to set new standards in Fort Lauderdale. An added bonus, hopefully we are inspiring others to do the same.
3. It provides a first-hand perspective into what Landscape Architects do.
From our private development projects to Mockingbird Trail, and everything in-between, we use our skill set to showcase the importance and value of our profession. Our goal is to provide a hands-on design approach to improving the quality of life for those who live in our city. We happen to be Landscape Architects – not landscapers, not yard maintenance gurus, not a business that decorates buildings with a few little shrubs. We shape how people traverse and experience outdoor spaces. In the state of Florida there are only 8,900 licensed Landscape Architects, compared to the 19.5 million people that reside in the state. Yet the realm of a Landscape Architect’s work (everything outdoors) is a vast canvas, and when properly designed can have beneficial impact on the environment, society, and the economy. We believe many of the challenges our society faces (declining physical and mental health issues and negative environmental impacts by unsustainable development) can be remedied with the skills of Landscape Architects.
4. It’s a way to get to know our neighbors.
If you build it, they will come. We pride ourselves on building trust within our community utilizing quality design and authentic experiences. Curating events, hosting community workshops and participating in neighborhood artwalks has been a way for us to open our doors to the public and truly get to know our neighbors. As a result, we have met and connected with like-minded individuals and other businesses who care about the future of our community. This propels a positive ripple effect leading to collaborations where different strengths are brought together to serve the common good for our city.
5. Happy employees equals a vibrant office.
We understand that life is about enjoying each moment, even at work. Through community engagement, our employees have an additional creative outlet to give back while building office morale and propelling leadership standards which shines through when we join our clients’ team. Encouraging community involvement as part of our company culture also creates an opportunity for our team to discover new initiatives and allows us to nurture values that matter most to Cadence.
Take a look into our current and past community projects:
Mockingbird Trail
PARK(ing) Day FTL
Better Block FTL
Revel on the Block
FTL Play Your City
International Picnic Day
Harvest | Cadence Makes Time for Work and Play
