Terrance Smith Receives Prestigious Award for Community Leadership in Arizona

Celebrating Community Leadership in Arizona

In a commendable recognition of outstanding leadership, Terrance Smith, the executive director of the Desert Ridge Community Association, has been honored with the City of Phoenix Excellence in Connectivity and Communication Award. This award highlights Smith's unwavering commitment to enhancing community connections and communication, essential in one of Arizona's most expansive master-planned communities.

Desert Ridge spans over 5,700 acres and accommodates more than 6,400 homes, encompassing residential neighborhoods, shopping areas, parks, and entertainment venues. Smith's leadership has been pivotal in fostering engagement among residents, businesses, and various community stakeholders. His innovative communication strategies include organizing community meetings, maintaining an active social media presence, and overseeing the quarterly Lifestyles magazine, a resource that keeps residents informed about news, resources, and opportunities for involvement.

Smith's nomination for this recognition came from Phoenix District 2 Councilman Jim Waring, who praised his consistent communication approach and his ability to unite various community members around shared priorities. During the 2026 Neighborhood Synergy Conference held on September 12, the City of Phoenix presented Smith with the award, further emphasizing the significance of his contributions to community engagement.

"Keeping a community connected requires a team effort," Smith stated, reflecting on the importance of collaboration among engaged residents, supportive board members, and local businesses. Smith expressed gratitude for the recognition, acknowledging Councilman Waring for his continued support of Desert Ridge.

The Neighborhood Synergy Conference, hosted annually by the City of Phoenix Neighborhood Services Department, serves as a vital platform for community leaders and advocates. It aims to equip participants with educational resources, encourage collaboration, and acknowledge successes in neighborhood advocacy.

Shane Gillaspie, president of FirstService Residential Arizona, articulated the organization’s core belief: that strong communities are built through strong relationships. He praised Smith for embodying this philosophy daily, noting that his efforts have significantly strengthened Desert Ridge through effective connections among residents, businesses, and community partners.

During the award ceremony, attendees included Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington, members of the Phoenix City Council, and Phoenix Police Chief Matt Giordano. Their presence underscored the importance of Smith's role and the collective efforts to enhance community dynamics.

About FirstService Residential

FirstService Residential stands as a leader in community management across North America. Focusing on enhancing property values and residents' lives, the organization collaborates with boards, owners, and developers to provide tailored property management solutions. Their commitment to service excellence is reflected in their 24/7 customer care and specialized programming that addresses the unique needs of their communities. As a subsidiary of FirstService Corporation (NASDAQ and TSX: FSV), FirstService Residential continues to drive positive change within the communities it serves.

In conclusion, Terrance Smith's recognition is a testament to the value of community engagement and effective leadership. His efforts exemplify how dedicated individuals can create lasting connections within neighborhoods, yielding benefits that extend beyond mere communication to foster a thriving community spirit.