Small Business Spotlight- Dan Drotos

1.  Tell us about your business; and what is your business philosophy?
The Drotos Ryals Group provides  commercial real estate brokerage (sales/leasing), consulting, valuation, and Tenant/Buyer representation services to a wide variety of clients throughout Alachua County. We work in the following asset classes: Office, Retail, Industrial/Flex, Multifamily, Land, and Investments. Our philosophy is to provide our clients with  honest and current data and advice which, in turn, will help them reach their commercial real estate needs most efficiently and effectively.

2. Why are you passionate about your commitment to United Way’s Community Investment Fund?
I am passionate about United Way’s Community Investment Fund because every dollar that is raised stays in the community in which I live and plan to raise my family. I was deeply disturbed and moved during a presentation by United Way at a Leadership Gainesville day in which the presenter detailed the income and wage gap that exists in our county. It was a real wake-up call for me when I heard that there are children in our community who do not have the most basic necessities, such as a toothbrush, or food to eat on weekends, when they are not at school. Gainesville and Alachua County have provided me with countless opportunities, both personally and professionally, and the Community Investment Fund is a way for me to maximize the impact of my charitable giving and improve my community.

3. What is something interesting or surprising that most people don’t know about you?
Many people know that I grew up in Fort Lauderdale. However, not many know that I grew up playing ice hockey and was fortunate to play at the collegiate level. It may seem weird for a Florida boy to be playing a Northern sport, however this was brought about by my family, who are from Canada (where I am a dual citizen, along with the U.S.). 

4.   What would your older self tell your younger self?
My older self would tell my younger self to make sure you do something every day, no matter how small, to improve as a person spiritually, personally, professionally, socially, etc. Also, enjoy every minute with family and friends because life can throw you twists and turns at any moment.

5. Favorite Quote 
"There are three kinds of people: Those who can do math, and those who can't."

Small businesses play a critical role in maintaining a thriving local economy. They are no less important to the success of United Way, as we endeavor to improve lives through our work in education, income, and health. Our Small Business Partners are an important, growing family of donors, who are vital to helping us meet the needs of our community.