Community Impact
At NORR, community impact is a core pillar of our Corporate Social Responsibility program and can be measured in many ways. Through design, volunteerism and charitable giving, we engage in our local and global communities by actively investing in the social wellbeing of people and place.
Design
At NORR, we understand our greatest contribution to local communities is design. Prioritizing ESG principles in design can directly enhance social wellbeing by promoting equity, sustainability and accountability in the built environment. As an example, the escalation of the housing crisis demands radical thinking that challenges traditional paradigms. We continuously partner with decision-makers to develop attainable housing strategies that support longer-term solutions for progressive funding models, developer incentives and policy changes.
We employ urban regeneration as a powerful long-term strategy to transform neighborhoods and cities. Its value can be measured through economic growth, as well as sustainable benefits for cities, owners, developers and residents. This viable strategy is guided through urban planning, using zoning to combine multiple uses together to form 15-minute cities—walkable, inclusive neighborhoods where essential services are accessible within a 15-minute walk or bike ride.
As part of our commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities, we volunteer time on design review panels in support of responsible growth and long-range development planning.
Volunteerism and Charitable Giving
NORR employees volunteer hundreds of hours to many important social causes and industry academic programs.
Our direct service volunteering programs focus on hands-on efforts that address immediate and tangible needs in the community. We participate in blood drives to support hospitals, disaster response efforts and medical research. We also lead creative food drives, collecting non-perishable goods to help reduce food insecurity and support low-income households.
Community-based fundraising activities are planned throughout the year to raise awareness and mobilize donations for specific causes, including breast cancer and brain cancer research, men’s health and various shelters. These events combine physical activity—such as walking or biking—with the goal of uniting people, promoting healthy lifestyles and providing direct financial support to nonprofits and underserved communities.
To support human capital development, our team members are encouraged to take active roles in shaping the future of the industry. Through leadership and service, they contribute to professional association boards, participate in academic advisory councils and mentor students in education-focused programs. By sharing their knowledge, they help influence curriculum, support emerging talent and strengthen the connection between education and practice.
