AvalonBay Announces 2016 Philanthropic Plans, Recaps 2015 Charitable Contributions

ARLINGTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

AvalonBay Communities, Inc. AVB – a trusted name in multifamily housing – announced today its philanthropic plans for 2016, including its second contribution of $250,000 towards its four-year $1 million commitment to the American Red Cross to support its mission as a National Disaster Responder. In addition to its focus on helping those in need during times of natural and human disasters, the Company plans to contribute another $1.3 million in cash and in-kind support to further the missions of various non-profit organizations focused on providing affordable housing and supporting the disadvantaged and most vulnerable in our local communities.

"Philanthropy and volunteerism is a critical aspect of our commitment to Corporate Responsibility and building strong communities, and we are excited about our planned philanthropic activities in 2016. It's at the heart of AvalonBay, where we are motivated by our ‘Spirit of Caring' core value of being good neighbors and giving back to the local communities where we do business," said Timothy Naughton, Chairman and CEO of AvalonBay.

In addition to its monetary contributions, AvalonBay is planning a series of charitable and community outreach events in 2016, including:

Blood drives at its apartment communities to encourage associates, residents and members of the community to help replenish local blood banks.
Community Preparedness Week to educate associates and residents on safety and readiness tips and provide training on CPR, emergency preparedness and disaster relief.
Its fourth annual Spirit of Caring month in which employees will commit time and resources to participate in large-scale community service projects and conduct donation drives throughout all of its communities.

The company's planning for 2016 builds on a successful 2015, in which AvalonBay contributed more than $1.1 million in corporate funding and in-kind donations and supported more than 55 non-profit organizations committed to providing affordable housing and support for the disadvantaged in the greater Boston, New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, Washington DC, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego markets.

"We are pleased to work with so many outstanding national and local organizations that are equally committed to building strong communities, and we're looking forward to our continued partnerships in 2016," said Mark Delisi, Senior Director of Corporate Responsibility.

About AvalonBay Communities, Inc.

AvalonBay Communities, Inc. – a trusted name in multifamily housing – is an equity REIT committed to creating a better way to live. AvalonBay develops, redevelops, acquires and manages apartment communities in the leading metropolitan areas in 10 states and the District of Columbia. As of September 30, 2015, the Company owned or held a direct or indirect ownership interest in 282 apartment communities containing 82,851 apartment homes, of which 27 communities were under construction and eight communities were under reconstruction. AvalonBay currently owns 16 LEED and 10 Energy Star certified communities, and an additional 23 communities are pursuing certification. The Company provides career opportunities to approximately 3,000 associates and acts as a long-term partner in the local communities where it builds and operates. More information may be found on the Company's website at http://www.avalonbay.com.