5 minute read
Generous Hearts: Stirling celebrates 50 years of growth and giving.
Highlighting Philanthropy on the Northshore
Our parters at the Northshore Community Foundation exist to make it easy for each of us to make a difference in our own backyard. Now in their 18th year, the Foundation has touched over $83 million dollars in philanthropic fuel, focusing on simplifying, organizing and magnifying philanthropy at every turn.
The Foundation has reached those remarkable numbers in three primary ways. First, they engage hundreds of individuals, families, companies and nonprofits in a membership model that promotes active connections and charitable work. Second, they take the paperwork out of “doing good” by administering funds that act as charitable checkbooks for any purpose. Last, they step into big roles when the need is great — especially in times of disaster. Through these three unique and critical roles, the Foundation uses its expertise and resources to magnify the incredible charitable work so prevalent in our region.
Everyone is a philanthropist. To Learn how you can do more in your own backyard, reach out to the Foundation at northshorefoundation.org
A Legacy Rooted in Growth and Giving
Written by Macie Hebert
Fifty years ago, Stirling set out on a mission that would reshape the landscape of commercial real estate in Louisiana. What began as two entrepreneurs with a shared vision grew into a decades-long journey of expansion, economic development, and meaningful community impact. Now, as the company marks its 50th anniversary, it reflects on a legacy rooted in both growth and giving.
As Stirling has grown, so has its commitment to the communities it serves. At the heart of that commitment is a long-standing partnership with the Northshore Community Foundation (NCF), which has helped guide the company’s philanthropic efforts over the years. Stirling co-founder and former NCF board member Jimmy Maurin remembers how it all began.
“After Katrina, we noticed that while the Northshore had a culture of giving, there wasn’t a strong framework to support it. There was a need,” Maurin explains.
Maurin and former CEO Marty Mayer played a pivotal role in shaping Stirling’s culture of philanthropy. While the company’s core business centers on commercial real estate, its greater purpose goes beyond transactions.
“When you develop shopping centers, you’re creating places for people to come together. You’re giving the community a way to connect that they may not have had otherwise,” Mayer says.
With developments like River Chase Shopping Center, Stirling has created more than just retail spaces—it has provided opportunities for people to dine, shop, and gather, ultimately contributing to the region’s economic and social well-being.
Over the years, Stirling Properties has extended its reach far beyond real estate. Its deepening relationship with NCF has become a cornerstone of its philanthropic identity. Mayer, who spent 36 years with the company, has led many of these efforts and continues to serve on the NCF board, even after retiring.
“At Stirling, it’s never been about grand gestures. It’s about showing up consistently,” he says. “Our work with the Northshore Community Foundation is just one example of how we strive to make a longterm difference.”
The company also sends out a monthly calendar to all of its employees with community giving events that they are encouraged to attend, promoting a continuously connected environment in the workplace.
Looking ahead, Stirling remains committed to steady, impactful giving.
“It’s not about doing something flashy,” Maurin says. “It’s about continuing the work we’ve always done.”
That philosophy runs deep throughout the company. Current CEO Townsend Underhill, who stepped into the role in 2023, embraces the same mindset.
That belief carries through to the entire Stirling team. One company initiative allows employees to direct a charitable donation to an organization of their choice once they complete a set number of volunteer hours.
“It empowers our people to support causes that matter to them, while staying connected to the community,” Underhill explains. Across the board, Stirling has been clear about the importance of people, both within the company and beyond it.
“Everything that we have accomplished takes having great people on your team,” Mayer commented.
One display of the company’s commitment to good people is shown in the way Underhill joined the team.
“When he joined us in 2007 we actually weren’t even hiring, but he made such an impression on us that we decided to make him part of our team,” Mayer continued.
The company’s leap to take on Underhill shows its dedication to adapting to change in order to further the company and community.
As Stirling looks to the future, its legacy of giving remains strong. With leaders like Maurin, Mayer, and Underhill shaping its path, the company continues to prove that lasting impact doesn’t come from one-time actions—it’s built through steady, heartfelt contributions that uplift communities for generations.
For more information about Stirling, visit stirlingprop.com or call 985-898-2022.
To learn how to get involved with the Northshore Community Foundation, visit northshorefoundation.org or call 985893-8757.
