In a world where most companies claim to care, Keller Williams proves it. And at the heart of that proof is KW Cares, the nonprofit organization dedicated to serving KW associates in their times of greatest need. At a recent KW New Orleans session, we had the honor of hosting Alexia Rodriguez, CEO of KW Cares, for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation about what it means to care—not just in words, but in action.
More Than Just a Grant Program
KW Cares isn’t just a charitable arm. It’s a lifeline. Founded 22 years ago, the organization started with small, individual grants. But after Hurricane Katrina, it transformed into a full-scale disaster relief program—and it hasn’t looked back.
Today, KW Cares:
- Responds to natural disasters nationwide, including hurricanes, wildfires, and floods.
- Supports agents and their families with emergency financial aid, medical support, and ongoing assistance when needed.
- Mobilizes within 24 hours of a major disaster hitting a region.
Alexia shared that in 2023 alone, KW Cares responded to five hurricanes, and the supply trucks were ready to roll for the California wildfires, supplying air purifiers and masks. And when KW Cares shows up, it’s not just with money—it’s with boots on the ground, fuel in tanks, and supplies on trailers.
The Trailers That Carry the KW Heart
Three massive, branded KW Cares 18-wheelers—donated by Mo Anderson, Bev Steiner, and Ben Kinney—are stocked with emergency supplies and are deployed from strategically located warehouses in Austin and Florida. Alexia described them as “a physical representation of the heart of Keller Williams.”
Those trailers bring generators, tarps, fuel, water, extension cords, box fans, and more to agents in need, fast. They beat FEMA to disaster zones. They beat the red tape. They just show up ready to serve.
Alexia recalled initially questioning the cost of maintaining those trucks. But after seeing them arrive at a hurricane-affected Keller Williams office in person, she was brought to tears. “We’re never, ever getting rid of those trailers,” she said. “They’re who we are.”
Not Just Once—As Many Times As You Need
Unlike most corporate hardship programs, KW Cares is not a one-and-done model. As Alexia explained, “If you got a grant after a hurricane and six months later are diagnosed with cancer—we’ll help again.” Continued care is the KW Cares way.
The team behind it is just a full-time staff of seven. Alexia, Rachel Elder, Shannon Cunningham, Rachel Ting, Robin Post, Adam Hughes, and Tony Young coordinate millions in relief efforts—but they don’t do it alone. They lean on regional leaders, Market Centers, and volunteers across the country who mobilize when disaster strikes.
Transactional Giving: A Sustainable Future
KW Cares is powered by transactional giving—small donations made with every real estate closing. In 2024, 23% of all KW transactions included a donation to KW Cares. The goal today is for 50%, 75%, even 100% of donations from Keller Williams associates closing deals.
As Lexi put it, “Even $5 or $10 fills up those trucks.”
Why It Matters
Whether it’s a roof lost to a hurricane, a flooded home, or the kind of medical tragedy no family can prepare for, KW Cares brings hope—and real help.
Alexia shared a heartbreaking example—a 17-year-old son of an agent who became a quadriplegic in a recent lake accident. KW Cares was there.
They’re always there.
Watch our mini-documentary, A Culture of Care: How Keller Williams Stood with New Orleans, here: https://youtu.be/-nnDw4iqm4s
Join the Movement
Transactional giving is simple. It’s sustainable. And it lets every Keller Williams agent be part of something much bigger. When you give with every deal, you’re not just closing a transaction—you’re opening the door to healing, help, and hope. At KW New Orleans, we are proud that 100% of our agents donate to KW Cares consistently.
To learn more about KW Cares or to sign up for transactional giving, visit https://www.kwcares.org/