ABOUT
ABOUT
For decades government, banking and the real estate industries have combined forces to by in large keep minorities from acquiring and benefitting from the appreciation of real estate, particularly in urban, previously red-lined neighborhoods. Building Blocks Together aims to serve as the primary minority real estate resource that guides individuals from being first time homebuyers to savvy investors.
MISSION
Build wealth and equity for the disenfranchised communities through education, real estate ownership and development
Virginia Rawlins |
Founder & Housing Consultant
Virginia Rawlins is a visionary leader and the founder of Building Blocks Together, a pioneering organization dedicated to advancing homeownership education and opportunities for individuals and families. Since its inception in 2018, Building Blocks Together has empowered countless individuals with the tools and resources needed to achieve the dream of owning property, fostering wealth creation, and building generational prosperity through real estate ownership. Virginia received her Bachelor of Arts in Economics from University at Albany in 2013.Virginia’s journey to becoming a champion of equitable homeownership began during her tenure as a LISC AmeriCorps Member at a local Land Bank. This experience ignited her passion for addressing systemic barriers to homeownership and inspired her lifelong commitment to creating pathways for underrepresented communities to build wealth through real estate.
Under Virginia’s leadership, Building Blocks Together has spearheaded impactful initiatives, including the allocation of $1.5 million in grants to increase minority homeownership rates. Her organization has hosted numerous community forums, providing vital education on navigating the complex landscape of homeownership. Through these efforts, she has established herself as a trusted advocate and mentor, equipping individuals with the knowledge and confidence to take ownership of their financial futures.
Virginia’s work is characterized by her holistic approach, which combines advocacy, education, and actionable resources. Her deep understanding of the systemic challenges facing potential homeowners stems from her own experiences and her relentless drive to create solutions that make homeownership accessible to all.
A dynamic speaker and thought leader, Virginia has been recognized by Albany Business Review's 40 Under 40 Class of 2022, for her ability to inspire and mobilize diverse audiences. Her work not only transforms individual lives but also strengthens communities by promoting stability and economic growth through homeownership.
Virginia Rawlins’s unwavering dedication and innovative leadership continue to shape the conversation around homeownership and wealth equity. Through Building Blocks Together, she is paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for generations to come.
GOALS
RESOURCES
Provide affordable informational resources to first-time homebuyers through online programming, one- on-one counseling and real estate services.
NETWORKING
Develop a network of first-time homebuyers targeting communities of color and low and moderate income households.
PARTNERSHIP
Cultivate partnerships and relationships with stakeholders to advance the mission of the organization.
investing
Invest and purchase real estate within the Capital region.
strategy
Develop strategic plan to expand business and investments to other metro areas in the Northeast.