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Philanthropy

Philanthropy, Russ Lyon

Together All Things Are Possible

 With over 140 different organizations helped over the last decade, the Russ Lyon 

Foundation has turned into one of the more prominent philanthropy organizations 

in state of Arizona. 

 For more than 77 years, the agents, owners and employees of Arizona’s leading luxury real estate brokerage Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty have been involved in community service work and with charitable organizations throughout Arizona, either through individual efforts or through an office within the company. 

The Scottsdale-based luxury brokerage later saw an opportunity to make those efforts even more impactful and formed the Russ Lyon Charitable Foundation in 2014, or as its now called, The Russ Lyon Foundation. The Russ Lyon Foundation is now proud to announce its 10th anniversary; a full decade of giving back to the communities it operates in. 

Since 2014, the Russ Lyon Foundation has helped over 140 different organizations and an incalculable number of individuals across the state. Organizations that the Russ Lyon Foundation has assisted have ranged in scope from educational groups to food banks to animal rescues to land preservation groups. 

While its success is best measured by the organizations and lives it has helped, its efforts have also been regularly recognized by local publications. 

In 2023, the Russ Lyon Foundation earned a spot on the Corporate Philanthropy List by the Phoenix Business Journal, securing 22nd place in terms of charitable contributions and 14th place in terms of volunteer hours. 

 “It has been inspiring and rewarding to see our Russ Lyon Foundation grow over these ten years into a recognized, 
productive, and successful foundation, involving hundreds of our real estate advisors and employees and doing good work and investing in important charitable organizations all across Arizona. Truly inspiring.

– Todd Gillenwater | Founder 


That said, its good works are not just within the state of Arizona. Around 20 volunteers recently returned from Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico to continue building houses with the Rancho Feliz Charitable Foundation and assisting individuals at the local migrant center who were deported from the United States and awaiting asylum, part of a volunteer partnership that has lasted for the last decade. In addition to home building efforts, this most recent visit led to 750 needy families receiving bags of food and warm blankets as well as assistance for a dog rescue housing over 160 dogs. 

The Russ Lyon Foundation strives to organize and work as a collective force, more powerful than the sum of the individuals, to improve the lives and communities of those in need, while spreading compassion and kindness within our state and across our borders.

Todd Gillenwater | Founder 


Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty strongly believes that when the communities it operates in have contributed to a company’s success, it is simply the right thing to do to give back. It hopes that the 10th anniversary of the Russ Lyon Foundation is the first of many anniversaries it will be celebrating in what will hopefully be a very long legacy of philanthropy and community building. 

It has been such a pleasure to be part of the Russ Lyon Foundation over the last ten years. It is rewarding to see it evolve and grow. Each year, more and more agents and employees are serving in their communities and it is heartwarming to see and participate alongside them.

Stephanie Stewart | Foundation President 



 Jennifer Parks-Sturgeon | Writer

Business, Community, Entertainment, Philanthropy, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR and Russ Lyon Foundation Support UMOM

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty and the Russ Lyon Foundation sponsored the 12th annual Buckles and Bangles event for UMOM. Buckles and Bangles event is their annual fundraising event that helps fund the programs and services that get people on the road to stability with employment and an affordable place to call home.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty Real Estate Advisor Theresa Krakauer is on the Board of Directors for UMOM. She attended the event with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty President and Designated Broker, Deems Dickinson, and Russ Lyon Foundation President, Betsy Dickinson.

The Russ Lyon Foundation also matched a $1,100 UMOM donation resulting in a $2,200 contribution towards the organization.

Business, Philanthropy, Real Estate

Russ Lyon SIR Welcomes Chauncey Beck

The team of experienced agents continues to grow with Valley’s leader in luxury real estate.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty is dedicated to bringing the highest level of service to today’s home buyers and sellers. This tradition continues with the recent addition of luxury Real Estate Advisor, Chauncey Beck, to the Camelback Tower Office.  

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty agents strive to deliver real estate experiences beyond expectations to enhance lifestyles for their clients, expanding their reputation as the most respected name in real estate. 

At just 27 years young, Chauncey boasts over 8 years of experience throughout her various roles in business and philanthropy. As a Real Estate Agent, she specializes in Fountain Hills, The West Valley, The Biltmore District, and Arcadia, where Chauncey resides with her family. 

As a native of Indiana, Chauncey grew up watching her grandmother, a real estate broker, and her family tackle many different and unique real estate opportunities. So, not only is real estate Chauncey’s passion, it’s in her blood.

Chauncey is very driven and extremely eager to learn. She has a kind mannerism about her that just makes you want to be near her. She will do well with our brand backing her.

Sherri Monteith, Managing Broker