Rooted in Philanthropy: The Giving Spirit of Greenwich Luxury Real Estate

In the heart of Greenwich, stately homes and verdant landscapes, often hidden behind stone walls and security gates, belie an isolated existence. Fortunately, that could not be further from the truth. Greenwich, a booming cosmopolitan center, will always be a small town at heart —defined by community, connection, and a commitment to giving back. TeamJGB understands that the true essence of Greenwich is more than luxury living, it resides in the well-being and camaraderie of our shared experience. When one suffers, we all suffer, but the people of Greenwich are always quick with a helping hand.

Julie Grace Burke

Having raised my family here in Greenwich, after growing up next door in Rye, New York, dedication to community is an integral part of my life. When my kids were still living at home this included coaching travel lacrosse for The Lightning, and Greenwich Youth Lacrosse, and serving on the parent boards at Putnam Indian Field School, Sacred Heart, Greenwich Academy, Brunswick School, Central Middle School, and Greenwich High School—if only they’d all attended the same school, I may not have been spread so thin! Greenwich is known for its educational opportunities and a significant draw to the area for young families. Volunteering at the schools was not just about being a good parent (let’s face it, my kids probably would’ve loved less face time with me at school events!), but about being a good neighbor, and trying to find ways to ensure that every kid in Greenwich has access to outstanding educational and extracurricular opportunities.

As my kids aged, my community involvement and fundraising efforts shifted. I now sit on the Board of Trustees for Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, am a member of the Acquisition Committee and former board member of the Greenwich Land Trust, and a supporter of the Bruce Museum. While many people across the country travel for hours to access premium medical care, cherished ecological landscapes, or world-class art, Greenwich has access to all three and more. Being part of these institutions has been a privilege, as we continue to work for the benefit of the citizens of Greenwich, new and old.

Liz Levison

Born and raised in Greenwich, and now a mother here myself, I am constantly in awe of the sense of support and belonging that this special city provides. As my way of giving back, I am an active supporter of Kids in Crisis, Greenwich United Way, the Bruce Museum, and Greenwich Country Day School. These organizations are just a small part of what makes Greenwich such a special place to live. Here, we prioritize health and access to resources for everyone and recognize that the well-being of the most vulnerable, especially children, is the responsibility of the entire community.

Craig Gibson Jr.

Like many residents, my community involvement extends beyond Greenwich with consistent support of the Boys and Girls Club of Palm Beach, FL and St. Sebastian’s School in Needham, MA. With my parents living full time in Palm Beach and as an alumni of St. Sebastian’s these two organizations are close to my heart. I continue to support them as part of a broader commitment to empowering young people through education and mentorship—building a brighter future for the next generations to come.

TeamJGB

The mission at Compass is to help everyone find their place in the world, but place is more than just four walls and a roof. It’s a sense of belonging that we are honored to help cultivate here in Greenwich. Most recently, TeamJGB has become the lead sponsor of the Neighbor to Neighbor 50th Anniversary.

Why did you decide to work with Neighbor to Neighbor?

We have always been impressed with the organization, and the alignment between our mission and theirs to ensure all residents of Greenwich are welcomed with nutritious food, clothing, and other essentials was a natural fit. In the business of real estate, one of our most crucial tasks is to find neighborhoods for people. In partnering with NTN, we carry our mission beyond just our current real estate clients to the community at large. Leading by example and being good neighbors ourselves is what compels this relationship.

After the 50th anniversary, is Compass interested in becoming more involved with Neighbor to Neighbor?

Neighbor to Neighbor is TeamJGB’s primary philanthropic endeavor. Julie’s kids volunteered for the organization in middle and high school, and now we are taking it to the next level. Also, in a “full circle” moment after becoming a mom last year, Liz is even more driven to help young families in the area. Beginning in 2025, for every transaction by the team, a portion of our commission will be donated to NTN. So yes, you guys are our #1 community partner and there is no end in sight!

See you at the benefit

Continue your philanthropic journey by joining Fairfield County Look and TeamJGB at the upcoming Neighbor to Neighbor Benefit on April 24th. We can’t wait to see you there!

Julie Knows Greenwich

Team JGB at Compass 

Julie Grace Burke

jgb@compass.com

203-253-0648