The Olen Jones I Am Hope Award honors those rare individuals who embody the very heart of National CORE and Hope through Housing. It recognizes employees whose passion, dedication and compassion transform lives every day – those who carry our mission not just in their work, but in their hearts.
For more than 16 years, Marisela “Marsi” Gerez has done exactly that. From her first role as a leasing consultant at Sycamore Springs Apartments to her leadership today as regional director for the Inland Empire, Marsi’s journey is a testament to what it means to lead with heart and purpose.
Marsi is more than a leader – she is a mentor, a collaborator and a builder of community. She inspires her teams to rise to their full potential, creates places where residents feel at home and extends her commitment into the broader community through her support of HOPE events and partnerships, such as the Strykers soccer organization.
Marsi’s supervisor, Senior Vice President of Property Management Courtney Richard, said Marsi is a beacon whose light supports everyone on their team.
“She’s the heart of our department. She keeps us going. She keeps us together. No matter what you put in front of her, she’s going to knock it out of the park. I truly couldn’t do without her,” Richard said.
Marsi’s excellence has been recognized with the 2017 Community Manager of the Year award and her certifications reflect her professionalism, but it is her spirit, generosity and vision that truly set her apart.
Marsi represents the best of who we are – proof that when we lead with compassion and integrity, we can change lives and build communities where hope flourishes. We are deeply honored to recognize her as this year’s Olen Jones I Am Hope Award recipient.