After decades of donations, the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB®) Charitable Foundation decided to go big—really big.
Instead of spreading out their donations to multiple charities, CREB® Charitable Foundation is putting all their eggs in the Habitat for Humanity basket by committing $1 million over the next three years to the well-known affordable housing non-profit’s Southern Alberta chapter.
“We believe in this approach and feel confident that it’s the best way for us to make an impact—on the community, on families in need, on the local non-profit sector“ said Alyssa Campos, president CREB® Charitable Foundation board of governors.
The historic donation was the result of strategic planning and allowed the Charitable Foundation to determine how to make the most noticeable impact in the community.
“The board looked at our industry and determined that staying in the housing and shelter realm spoke more to the REALTORS® than any other cause,” said Aneve MacKay-Lyons, Manager of CREB® Charitable Foundation. “The announcement was made at the April annual general meeting, where some members actually stood up and cheered when it was announced.”
The CREB® Charitable Foundation’s strategic plan aligns with the real estate industry focus, helping families realize their home ownership dreams, and shines a light on the public’s perception of REALTORS®.
Throughout the year, CREB® members raise funds through various events such as casino days, HOME Show ticket sales and the ever-popular REALTOR® Round Up coinciding with the Calgary Stampede. The CREB® members are also putting in plenty of volunteer hours with 27 home builds scheduled with Habitat over the next three years.
“It can be very emotional for the volunteer REALTORS® when they are coming off the job site. To see the fruits of their labour in front of them is so humbling and empowering,” MacKay-Lyons said.
“We are so grateful for the incredible commitment the CREB® Charitable Foundation has made to us,” said Gerrad Oishi, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta. “Our partnership is unique because they really understand the stability that home ownership can bring to families.”
In the foundation’s 30-year history, $6.3 million has been given to over 150 local organizations. In 2017, the CREB® Charitable Foundation celebrated their anniversary by donating $125,000 to Inn from the Cold, $100,000 to Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta, $100,000 to Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta (combined matching donation from AREF) and $75,000 to Made by Momma.
