Impact

Our Commitment

We seek to identify efficiencies, promote sustainability and resiliency through innovative solutions, support our team members and firm culture, and positively impact our communities – all with a focus on maximizing the risk-adjusted returns of our investments.

Sustainability

Our proactive approach to the integration of financially prudent sustainability initiatives and implementation of operational best practices drives value for all stakeholders.

Through investment due diligence and asset management processes, we strive to build greater climate resiliency and incorporate accretive sustainability measures.

We seek energy and water efficiencies at our properties to reduce our environmental impact and drive investment returns.

Derek Lopez CIO, GEM Realty Properties

Community Engagement and
Philanthropy

We are committed to strengthening our connection to our communities and encouraging charitable leadership. Our team members participate through various community engagement activities, hands-on service projects, and GEM’s Charitable Contributions Committee (GEMC3), as well as serve on nonprofit boards and committees. The role of GEMC3 is to align and integrate the interests, motivations, and resources of the firm to invest both monetary and non-monetary resources in the Chicago community.

GEM is dedicated to helping underserved community members, particularly children, realize their full potential by providing meaningful experiences and resources that would otherwise be unavailable to them. GEM donates funds, sponsors programs, and promotes participation among our employees with the intention of creating a direct and substantial impact within the community. 

200

Team member volunteer
service hours in the past year

100 +

Organizations

10 %

Team members on charitable
boards or committees

As a Chicago-based firm, GEM is dedicated to making a positive impact in the Chicagoland area.

School Partnerships

Since 2016, we have built partnerships with Chicago schools to provide support to their students and staff. We believe in the importance of education and giving children the necessary supplies, support, and opportunity to reach their highest potential.

Grants & Board Service

Since 2006, we have supported over 200 organizations, helping under-resourced members of our community gain access to opportunities and financial support. We are proud that 25% of employees serve on nonprofit boards and committees.

Service Projects

Our community is incredibly important to us. In addition to an annual firmwide service day, each team at GEM plans and executes service projects that benefit local underserved communities.