Roosevelt Giles, a native of Union, South Carolina, reflects on his humble beginnings as the son of a sharecropper, growing up in a large family with nine siblings in an environment where education was a scarce luxury.
He remembers that schooling was often only accessible during rainy days when the fields were too wet for cotton-picking, and his early experiences were defined by both scarcity and resilience.
These formative experiences instilled in him a deep belief that each generation should strive to improve the world for those who follow.
This conviction has guided Giles throughout his professional journey, from his initial role as a young programmer to ultimately founding a technology company in Atlanta.
Throughout his career, he heeded the advice of mentors, who encouraged him to invest in real estate as a stabilizing force amid the uncertainties of entrepreneurship.
What started as a financial strategy has transformed into a powerful platform for social impact.
In collaboration with Atlanta Housing, Giles has dedicated a portion of his rental properties to families seeking affordable housing, which he cites as one of the most fulfilling aspects of his work.
His role extends beyond that of a landlord; he views himself as an active and engaged citizen within the Atlanta community.
There is a common misunderstanding that engaging in affordable housing initiatives requires significant financial compromise or poses risks to property owners.
However, Giles asserts that his experience has been quite the opposite.
He notes that Atlanta Housing provides a sense of predictability in a volatile marketplace through guaranteed rent, timely payments, and resources such as mediators and inspectors that support both landlords and tenants.
These offerings often come at a cost to landlords operating in the private sector, making Atlanta Housing’s support invaluable.
Moreover, Giles emphasizes that the vetting process by Atlanta Housing fosters compatibility between tenants and landlords.
Before any agreements are made, landlords can meet potential residents, visit their current homes, and set clear expectations, resulting in mutually respectful and committed partnerships.
Giles acknowledges that challenges can arise in any business, including real estate, technology, or international operations.
Nevertheless, the partnership with Atlanta Housing facilitates a navigable solution to these issues, providing a level of support that often outstrips typical private arrangements.
Witnessing families thrive under this partnership has been particularly rewarding for Giles.
He shares uplifting stories, such as that of a tenant’s son whom he equipped with a lawnmower and trimmer to help him earn during the summer, who is now building a promising future.
Giles sees in this young man the same potential that others once recognized in him.
For landlords who are hesitant to participate in affordable housing programs, Giles offers a straightforward recommendation: dedicate one of your multiple properties to Atlanta Housing.
He believes that by evaluating the program firsthand, landlords will discover the substantial economic, operational, and moral benefits it offers.
In uncertain economic times, such partnerships can ensure a reliable income stream for landlords.
Moreover, they fulfill a crucial obligation of business ownership to contribute positively to the communities in which they operate.
For Giles, the concept of home represents security, dignity, and the chance for individuals to forge better lives.
Through his collaboration with Atlanta Housing, he feels honored to help others achieve this foundational support.
He believes that by working together, they contribute to making Atlanta a stronger community.
For those interested in exploring the advantages of becoming an Atlanta Housing landlord, the 2025 Atlanta Housing Landlord Symposium is set to take place on Thursday, August 7, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Currently, this event has reached full capacity, but individuals can still express interest by joining the waitlist for future opportunities.
image source from：saportareport
