Community, Connection & Impact: 1DROP Hosts Second Quarterly Member Meeting
1DROP members gathered at TopGolf Renton to reflect and deepen connections across the network.
On July 24, 1DROP members gathered at TopGolf Renton for our second quarterly convening, a pivotal moment to assess our trajectory, celebrate achievements, and chart the path ahead. The energy in the room reflected something essential: when underrepresented developers are equipped with resources, connection, and clear direction, they reshape the landscape of possibility.
The gathering reinforced our core belief that collective progress requires intentional culture, shared accountability, and the courage to tackle complex conversations together.
Anchoring in Purpose
The meeting opened with a deliberate return to fundamentals. Keenan Grayson, 1DROP’s Senior Program Manager, led members through a purpose-setting session that grounded us in the deeper motivations driving this work.
"We can build a culture that outlasts any individual project. That's the real work, and the real opportunity."
— Keenan Grayson
Members took time to revisit the 1DROP pledge and community norms, examining how these principles translate from paper into practice. Through pair-share conversations, members reflected on moments when they'd witnessed these values come alive in their interactions since the last gathering. The session served as a reminder that sustainable change starts with culture, and culture requires constant tending.
Keenan led a session reconnecting members to 1DROP’s core values and the cultural commitments behind the work.
Stories That Shape Us
Jeremy Rubin took the stage and led an exercise that pushed members to examine mindset, fear, and the limits we place on ourselves. The session challenged the room to consider how real progress often comes not from individual grind, but from tapping into the experiences, strategies, and lessons of those around us. It was a sharp reminder of what makes 1DROP powerful: the strength of a collective over the isolation of going it alone.
Michael Hopkins also offered powerful insights into personal development, project scope, defining purpose, and lessons learned. Drawing from his real estate development experience, Hopkins emphasized the importance of clarity in both personal vision and project execution, highlighting how authentic networks that deliver on their promises create the foundation for sustainable growth and meaningful development projects.
“I rock with 1DROP, because they actually do what they said they were going to do. ”
Reflecting on What We’ve Built
Rasheed Thompson led the H1 Lookback, highlighting the traction across the network. With 72 units currently under construction across member-led housing projects, the network is seeing tangible results, including four members—Kiara Daniels, Nicole Remy, Lexie Brown, and India Clark—acquiring their first development properties.
Beyond the numbers, the update showcased key member contributions that demonstrate how individual leadership drives collective impact:
Kiara Daniels: Connected members with funding opportunities
Kay Cole: Advocated for 1DROP across multiple organizations
Jeremy Rubin & Noemi Cagatin-Porter’s: Represented 1DROP & BHI at the KeyBank event
Lexie Brown & Caleb Repp: Provided feedback on the 1DROP Residency program
India Clark: Represented 1DROP on project acquisitions and contributed to the Policy committee vision
Lyle Crews: Led M.I.R.E. and introduced Realtists to 1DROP
These examples highlight how the efforts of individual members strengthen the network and amplify 1DROP’s mission.
“When we reflect on what we’ve achieved and what it means for the work we endeavor to do, we see that progress isn’t automatic—it’s built through consistent effort and shared commitment.”
Moving Forward Together
From focused breakout discussions to presentation moments to informal networking, the gathering reflected a community that takes both the work and the relationships seriously.
The day concluded with optional golf activities, providing space for members to connect outside formal programming—a reminder that building community includes making room for joy and informal relationship-building.
What emerged from the convening was proof of a network that can tackle complex issues, celebrate progress, and stay focused on the long-term vision. As we move forward, the work continues with purpose and partnership, rooted in the understanding that when developers of color are supported, the impact ripples out, creating housing solutions for all.
About 1DROP
1DROP is a collective of underrepresented real estate developers addressing the Puget Sound housing crisis. We are committed to empowering underrepresented developers to build housing for all wages, all stages, and all ages while growing access to generational wealth.
1DROP achieves its mission by, externally:
Advocating for funding for underrepresented developers and their projects.
Advocating for policy solutions that enable more housing.
And internally by providing:
Apprenticeships for aspiring underrepresented developers.
Co-development for emerging underrepresented developers.
Mentorship, networking, resources and support services for all underrepresented developers.
For those inspired to learn more or get involved in supporting equitable housing, visit 1DROP's website to explore our initiatives and join us in making an impact.
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