The Leadership Greenville Distinguished Alumni Award, sponsored by Prisma Health, recognizes a Leadership Greenville Alum who has made outstanding civic and community contributions. The 2023 award was presented to Brian Albers and Mario Brown at the 135th Greenville Chamber Annual Meeting, presented by TD Bank. After meeting in Leadership Greenville Class 43, Brian and Mario were inspired to start Affordable Upstate, a real estate investment firm focused on creating better affordable housing that meets the needs of their community. Learn more about Affordable Upstate and their mission here. 

Brian Albers

Brian Albers, co-founder of Affordable Upstate, has been instrumental in transforming the affordable housing landscape, leading to the preservation of over 1,400 units and the mobilization of $55 million in local “impact investor” equity. His strategic financial insights have not only fostered significant community development but also established a benchmark in socially responsible investing. Albers’ approach demonstrates how targeted investments can catalyze sustainable community benefits and economic growth. Brian serves as the Chair of the advisory board for The Salvation Army of Greenville County and the Co-Chair of the Greenville Affordable Housing Coalition.

Mario Brown

Mario Brown, a Greenville native and co-founder of Affordable Upstate, has been pivotal in reimagining affordable housing. Through N.O.A.H. Property Management, an Affordable Upstate initiative, Brown has launched groundbreaking economic mobility-focused programs that ease economic burdens and enhance accessibility. Among these, the “Flex Pay” Program stands out, allowing residents to align rent payments with their pay schedules. This program, together with Deposit Alternatives, Positive Credit Reporting, and effective tracking, underscores Brown’s dedication to empowering tenants and fostering economic mobility. His innovative approach not only uplifts the Greenville community but also sets a new benchmark for dignified and accessible housing solutions. Mario serves as the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for Homes of Hope and is a member of the Metropolitan Board of Directors for the YMCA of Greenville.