Local real estate brokerage Catalist Realty has created a unique business model by balancing concierge-level service with philanthropy, donating 15 percent of all commissions earned to nonprofits of its clients’ choice. In less than two years’ time, the firm has eclipsed $50,000 contributed toward local nonprofits, and it shows no sign of slowing down as the Sarasota housing market has remained strong despite COVID-19. The nonprofits, unfortunately, have been tremendously impacted this year, making this form of business philanthropy even more poignant.

As a previous executive director of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Broker/Owner David Crawford understands how important local nonprofits are to our communities. Coming from a family with over four decades of experience in real estate, he understands the business. He merged these two backgrounds and created Catalist Realty with the goal of utilizing a for-profit business model that offered an additional source of “unrestricted funds” to nonprofit organizations that support our community’s greatest needs.

When conceptualizing the business model, the most important consideration was its ability to scale community impact with the company’s growth. As transactions increased, so would donations. An instant draw for some was that Catalist would allow the clients themselves to choose which organizations would receive the funds. This was important to ensure the largest impact, as clients can support organizations they are already connected with—or if a client doesn’t have a current relationship with a 501(c)(3), Catalist will bridge the gap and connect them with local nonprofits who align with their values and passion.

To date, Catalist Realty has proudly donated to more than 20 organizations, including the Conservation Foundation (for which David sits on the board of directors), the Education Foundation of Sarasota County, the Safe Place and Rape Crises Center (SPARCC), the Boys and Girls Club of Sarasota County, Sarasota Opera, Nate’s Place, Teen Court of Sarasota Inc., Tidewell Hospice, Easterseals, and—being a devout Gator fan—the Tim Tebow Foundation.

David, a born and raised Floridian, loves to showcase the amazing beaches, culture, amenities and quality of life Sarasota offers to those fortunate enough to call this beautiful city home. Beyond the passion for his business and community giving, he loves cooking, scuba diving and traveling with his wife, Stacey, and his daughter, Callie.

For more information, please contact David Crawford at 941-777-2968, by email at [email protected] or online.