Alexander Evans – Managing Director, Collliers International

NATHAN GRIFFIS
I'm fortunate to be able to call Alex my friend. At least I hope. I hope that's the case because he's a scary dude. But here's where I want to start. Everybody knows Alex because he's got those guns. But here's the thing—what I've learned in my dealings with Alex is it takes a huge heart to pump those guns.

NATHAN GRIFFIS
I want to start with your nonprofit. We'll get to the work stuff, but tell the audience about it and why it's such a big part of what motivates you every day.

ALEX EVANS
Sure. It's my favorite thing to talk about. My nonprofit is The Greatest Commandment, Inc., based on the greatest commandment in the Bible—to love God with all your heart, mind, body, and spirit, and love your neighbor as yourself. This is our fourth year in operation. We started shortly after COVID.

ALEX EVANS
A few of us were working out of my garage during COVID. We were able to keep our jobs, and we all had a heart for the homeless and those in need. We began self-funding efforts—giving out toiletries, necessities, and supplies to people downtown.

ALEX EVANS
Eventually, people asked how legitimate it was, so we incorporated as a nonprofit so donations could be tax-deductible and we could operate transparently.

NATHAN GRIFFIS
So people know you're not just rolling up asking for money.

ALEX EVANS
Exactly. “Just trust me” only goes so far.

NATHAN GRIFFIS
You have annual events as well, right?

ALEX EVANS
Yes. We host three annual events for kids—Easter, Back-to-School, and Summer events. We also serve every Saturday at the Coalition for the Homeless downtown, except when a large church takes over on the second Saturday.

ALEX EVANS
We source volunteers throughout the week as well, especially as the number of residents needing help continues to increase due to economic pressures.

NATHAN GRIFFIS
If someone wants to help, what can they do?

ALEX EVANS
Time and treasure. If you can’t give money, give time. Volunteering is huge, especially for students who need service hours. It helps kids gain perspective and understand how fortunate they are.

ALEX EVANS
Even spreading the word helps. Pray for us, tell others—anything positive moves the mission forward.

NATHAN GRIFFIS
You’ve talked to people on the street. How easy is it for someone to end up there?

ALEX EVANS
It’s easier than people think. Most people are about two paychecks away from being homeless. A medical issue, rising costs, or a personal crisis can derail everything quickly.

ALEX EVANS
Small changes—gas prices, grocery bills—can dramatically increase the number of people seeking shelter.

NATHAN GRIFFIS
You recently joined Colliers. Are you through the honeymoon phase?

ALEX EVANS
Yes, just over a year now.

NATHAN GRIFFIS
You’re also involved in roundtables and education initiatives. What’s the goal?

ALEX EVANS
We want to expose students and professionals to the breadth of opportunities in the industry and attract more diverse talent. More perspectives make us better as an industry.

NATHAN GRIFFIS
What do you tell young recruits considering Colliers?

ALEX EVANS
Our culture. We work hard, but we have fun. It’s entrepreneurial, and we invest in teaching people the right way to do business. All I need is a good work ethic and a good attitude.

ALEX EVANS
Degrees matter, but once you’re in the workplace, you learn how the real business works.

NATHAN GRIFFIS
How do you onboard new hires?

ALEX EVANS
We focus on relationships. One-on-one meetings, setting expectations, and making sure people know it’s okay to ask questions and learn.

NATHAN GRIFFIS
You recently got married. How are you balancing everything?

ALEX EVANS
My wife makes everything easier. Commitment has helped me grow. I’ve learned to set work down when I get home and be present with my family.

NATHAN GRIFFIS
Who had the biggest impact on your career?

ALEX EVANS
One mentor early on gave me opportunity after opportunity. He didn’t have to, but he did—and I’ll always be grateful.

ALEX EVANS
As for books, “How to Win Friends and Influence People” is always my go-to.

NATHAN GRIFFIS
Alex, you’re a champion—not just professionally, but as a human being. Thank you for your time.

ALEX EVANS
Everything you said right back at you. I appreciate you.