Next Generation Poverty Fighter: Justin Hauser
“We don’t sell tickets to pay for parties. We make a real impact.”
Q & A
RH: Tell us a little about what you do.
JH: I work at Related in their real estate private equity business. We have a pretty flexible mandate which enables us to invest in a variety of asset classes and product types where our deep expertise can add value. We bought and finished One Madison, built Converse’s headquarters in Boston, removed and replaced the Board at CommonWealth REIT and recently just bought the W Ft. Lauderdale Hotel & Residences. It’s a really fun and intellectually challenging place to work.
RH: How long have you lived in NYC? What brought you here and what keeps you here?
JH: I pretty much grew up here. I feed off the city’s energy and diversity. I could never leave and I feel a massive responsibility to preserve my city and all that is great about it.
RH: You could spend your time and money supporting any organization. What has drawn you to Robin Hood?
JH: Robin Hood operates a non-profit organization like a for-profit business. They will break down your contribution by the penny to explain how it gets allocated. Because the Board covers all expenses, 100% of donations go to helping those in need. We don’t sell tickets to pay for parties, and we make a real impact.
RH: Who are your heroes and why? Who has lifted you up in life and how do you intend to pay it forward?
JH: My father. He instilled a sense of work ethic and humility that has guided my life. I will always look for ways to grow but in the short term I plan on participating in a variety of endurance challenges to help raise awareness and support for various causes. My first is climbing Mt. Rainier in August. I’m also training for an Ironman in Cozumel, MX this September.
RH: What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
JH: Work hard, stay humble and amazing things will happen. It’s true.
