The hard work and dedication of our members forms the bedrock of The Real Estate Council’s efforts to catalyze community investment in Dallas, influence public policy, propel careers, and develop the leaders of tomorrow.

Each month, we are spotlighting TREC members who have made significant contributions to our community investment initiatives and continue to push the limits of what our organization and its partners can accomplish for our city.

This month, we are proud to recognize Sara Barnes of Agent Architecture and Rachel Brennan of OTJ Architects!

Sara Barnes, Agent Architecture

Please describe the TREC Community Investors project you are presently working on and any responsibilities you have.
I am currently serving as the liaison for the DCED Professional Practice team. We have a bank of members who have generously offered their professional services to our non-profit partners. I match volunteers with the project teams as needs arise.

Please detail any other Community Investors projects within the last five years and your role(s).
I assisted the Young Guns WeCreation Innovation Center project for St. Phillips School and Community Center with professional design services to help see the project to completion.

Please list any other TREC programs you’ve participated in (leadership development programs, TREC PAC/Public Policy Committee, boards you’ve served/roles, etc.).
TREC mentorship program – I had the honor of having our current chairperson Kim Butler as my mentor!

How did you begin volunteering with TREC Community Investors? What has the experience been like?
I was eager to serve in a role where I could see TREC’s impact in the community. I was immediately drawn to the Community Investors program. I’ve loved getting to learn about the various projects and keep up with their status. Affordable housing is such a critical issue in Dallas, and I’m pleased to have an insider view of this incredible effort by our partner organizations.

Rachel Brennan, OTJ Architects

Please describe the TREC Community Investors project you are presently working on and any responsibilities you have.
I am currently working on the Cornerstone Housing project. I am helping with finishes and furniture selection for the individual units.

Please detail any other Community Investors projects within the last five years and your role(s).
The Cornerstone Housing project is the only project so far that I’ve been a part of. Looking forward to helping more in the future!

Please list any other TREC programs you’ve participated in (leadership development programs, TREC PAC/Public Policy Committee, boards you’ve served/roles, etc.).
Community Investors is the only TREC program I’ve been fortunate to be a part of so far. I’m a member of the ALC Class of 2022 and have previously volunteered at Fight Night, Casino Night (previously also on the fundraising committee), and Giving Gala.

How did you begin volunteering with TREC Community Investors? What has the experience been like?
Stephanie Laughlin tapped me on the shoulder to be a part of the Community Investors program and the experience has been wonderful so far. It is extremely rewarding to be able to help such a deserving organization.