Historically, commercial real estate has been a male-dominated industry, so those women who do enter the field often have to work twice as hard to succeed. Many of those who make it to the top credit their success to strong female role models who supported their choices, strengthened their confidence and allowed them to believe in themselves and their career goals. AZRE Magazine caught up with three female CRE professionals who spend much of their free time giving back to underprivileged, addicted or simply down-on-their-luck girls and women. Their philanthropic work helps build strong families and communities and encourages future generations to follow their dreams, no matter what challenges they may face.

Judi Butterworth, Senior Vice President, Orion Investment Real Estate

Butterworth has specialized in leasing and selling shopping centers for about 40 years. While her long list of professional achievements is impressive, her passion for helping others is equally as formidable. Shortly after moving to Phoenix in the 1980s, she began volunteering at Arizona Women’s Education and Employment (AWEE, now part of A New Leaf) and created one of the organization’s signature events, Cocktails and Clothes. Last year’s soiree, held just days before the beginning of the pandemic in March, raised approximately $75,000. Currently, Butterworth focuses on helping women and children through Phoenix Rescue Mission’s Changing Life Center. She also teaches classes at the Estrella Jail that give incarcerated women life and coping skills.

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