July 30, 2025 | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Atlanta, GA — Purpose Built Communities® is deeply saddened by the passing of our visionary founder, steadfast supporter, and dear friend, Tom Cousins. We mourn his loss alongside his family, the community, and the countless individuals whose lives he transformed through his unwavering belief in the potential of people and place.
Tom was far more than a generous philanthropist; he was the very heart and driving force behind Purpose Built, reaching families nationwide. His profound commitment to creating a more just and equitable America was not merely aspirational – it was achievable. Witnessing the challenges in Atlanta’s East Lake neighborhood, Tom recognized that people are strong and resilient, but some neighborhood conditions created obstacles and barriers to participating in the American dream. His fierce belief in the connection between people and place informed the Purpose Built model that creates thriving, mixed-income communities offering genuine opportunity for all residents.
“While we feel a profound sense of loss, we are also filled with immense gratitude for his extraordinary life and leadership,” said Carol R. Naughton, CEO of Purpose Built Communities. “His vision, generosity, and fierce dedication to building a more just America continue to inspire and guide our work every single day.”
His leadership was characterized by boldness, strategic brilliance, and an unshakeable conviction that every individual deserves access to quality education, safe and affordable housing, wellness resources, and economic mobility. He understood that true community transformation requires a holistic, long-term approach, breaking down silos and fostering collaboration – principles that became the bedrock of Purpose Built Communities.
His legacy will continue to live on in East Lake and across the thriving Purpose Built Network now spanning over two dozen communities across the nation. He proved that transformative change is possible when driven by compassion, strategic investment, and a fundamental belief in justice and human potential.
We extend our deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Ann, his children, grandchildren, and the entire Cousins family. We pledge to honor Tom Cousins’ monumental legacy by redoubling our efforts to fulfill the mission he so passionately championed: creating neighborhoods of opportunity where everyone can thrive.
His light will continue to guide us.
About Purpose Built Communities:
Purpose Built Communities is the national leader in strengthening neighborhoods and opening pathways to prosperity and opportunity for all.
As a philanthropically funded nonprofit organization, we form long-term partnerships with Community Quarterback Organizations, which are hyperlocal nonprofit organizations that work with residents and partners to advance a comprehensive strategy that supports the vision of the community. Through the determination and creativity of these organizations — and the expertise, resources, and advocacy of Purpose Built Communities — the foundational elements of a thriving neighborhood begin to take shape. This includes high-quality, mixed-income housing; excellent schools; inclusive spaces that nurture physical and mental health; and an active commercial core that keeps the neighborhood economically vibrant. Purpose Built Communities currently supports more than 25 Community Quarterback Organizations in cities across the U.S. Together, and along with our strategic partners, we are strengthening neighborhoods so that everyone can prosper in the places they call home.
To learn more about Purpose Built Communities, visit: purposebuiltcommunities.org.
