Plant a Seed, Grow a Community

The healthier a community, the better the environment for residents, homeowners and REALTORS®.

The Arizona Association of REALTORS® (Arizona REALTORS®), National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and REALTOR® Party have resources to help you and your association plant seeds that will pay community dividends for years to come.

Arizona REALTORS® recently recognized the SouthEast Valley Regional Association of REALTORS® (SEVRAR) for their excellence in community service with a 2016 Community Outreach Award.

SEVRAR was honored for battling homelessness by working together to remodel a home as a part of House of Refuge, a nonprofit that helps homeless families through the hardest part of their lives. House of Refuge provides secure housing, basic needs, employment guidance, family engagement activities and on-going case management for one year.

“Our honorees have made a significant impact within the industry, association and our communities,” said Arizona REALTORS® 2016 President Paula Serven. “It’s our privilege to recognize these members for their many accomplishments.”

SEVRAR donated its $2,000 Community Outreach Award to the House of Refuge. The nonprofit’s Executive Director Nancy Marion said the donation will be used to enhance community center programs and after school care services.

“One of the main purposes of the Community Center is to provide a ‘safe’ house for the children after school,” said Marion. “Fifty-percent of our families have histories of domestic violence, so it is important to begin building trusting relationships and safe harbors. By offering consistent, nurturing environments and safe areas these children begin to trust and grow.”

The Community Outreach Awards is one of many programs available to members and associations; others include Placemaking, Smart Growth, Housing and Diversity programs that can help address a variety of issues, including affordable workforce housing challenges, land use and development issues, community revitalization, transportation planning and fair housing.

SEVRAR has planted a seed. In addition to making your community a better place to live and work, becoming engaged in your community can strengthen your community influence and enhance your public relation efforts. It will give you a seat at the table and prime you to become more politically involved in issues that affect the real estate market.

To find out more about programs and grants available to you and your association, please email your Arizona REALTOR® Party Director.

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