NAR's Good Neighbors: Award Winners Exemplify Real Estate's Community Commitment

Washington, D.C. – The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has announced the winners of its annual Good Neighbor Awards, recognizing five REALTORS® who demonstrate a powerful commitment to community service. But beyond the heartwarming stories of individual generosity lies a larger trend: agents increasingly taking the lead in founding and sustaining non-profit organizations that address critical local needs.

This year’s honorees – Cindy Bradley (Knoxville, TN), Kim Clifton (Tucson, AZ), Ken Larson (Duluth, MN), Ray Manzoni (Mount Sinai, NY), and JacQuan Winters (Tuscaloosa, AL) – were selected from nominations submitted by their peers and communities. Their initiatives span a diverse range of causes, including hospice care, poverty alleviation, support for children battling illness, ALS research, and youth mental health.

Beyond Transactions: A Pattern of Founder-Led Initiatives

A closer examination of the award winners reveals a striking commonality: all five are either founders or co-founders of the organizations they support. This suggests a particularly deep level of commitment and leadership extending beyond simply writing a check or volunteering time.

“It's not enough to just donate; these agents built something,” explains one industry analyst. “They identified a need, created a sustainable solution, and poured their energy and resources into making a lasting impact.”

Cindy Bradley founded Sacred Ground Hospice House after experiencing personal loss, providing compassionate end-of-life care in an area where such services were lacking. Kim Clifton’s Tierra Antigua Hope Foundation focuses on keeping families together and supporting teens transitioning out of foster care. Ken Larson established the Northern Lights Foundation in honor of his infant daughter, providing financial and emotional support to families with critically ill children. Ray Manzoni co-founded ALS Ride For Life to fund research and support patients battling Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. And JacQuan Winters launched the Kristen Amerson Youth Foundation, dedicated to suicide prevention and youth mental health, named in memory of a young life lost.

“These agents are true community builders,” notes another source within NAR. “They aren't just real estate professionals; they are catalysts for positive change.”

A National Trend of Giving Back

The Good Neighbor Awards are more than just a feel-good story; they reflect a broader trend of REALTORS® actively engaging in community service. NAR data consistently shows that REALTORS® volunteer at nearly three times the rate of the general public. Since the program’s inception in 2000, NAR has provided over $1.5 million in grants to support the charitable work of its award winners.

The geographic distribution of past and present winners further highlights the widespread nature of this commitment. Honorees have been recognized in 44 states, Puerto Rico, and 17 countries, demonstrating that giving back is a core value for REALTORS® across the globe.

Digging Deeper: Financial Health and Impact

Beyond the heartwarming narratives, a review of the organizations' financial health – based on publicly available IRS Form 990 filings – reveals a commitment to responsible stewardship. All five organizations demonstrate sound financial management, with a significant portion of their funds directed towards program services.

• Sacred Ground Hospice House: Demonstrates consistent growth in both revenue and program spending.
• Tierra Antigua Hope Foundation: Focused on providing direct assistance and demonstrates a high percentage of funds going towards aid.
• Northern Lights Foundation: Though a newer organization, is showing promising growth and effectively utilizing funds for family support.
• ALS Ride For Life: A long-established non-profit with a strong track record of fundraising and impactful program delivery.
• Kristen Amerson Youth Foundation: Demonstrates commitment to youth mental health with increasing program reach.

This financial stability is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of these organizations and their ability to continue serving their communities.

Beyond Awards: NAR's Commitment to Social Responsibility

The Good Neighbor Awards are a key component of NAR's broader commitment to social responsibility. The association also supports numerous other initiatives, including the Volunteering Works program, which matches REALTORS® with volunteer opportunities, and advocacy efforts aimed at promoting affordable housing and community development.

“We believe that REALTORS® have a unique opportunity – and responsibility – to make a positive impact on their communities,” says a spokesperson for NAR. “The Good Neighbor Awards are a way to recognize those who are going above and beyond, and to inspire others to do the same.”

The Ripple Effect

The impact of these agents extends far beyond the immediate beneficiaries of their charitable work. Their actions inspire others to get involved, fostering a culture of giving back and community engagement.

“It’s a ripple effect,” explains one observer. “When people see others stepping up and making a difference, it encourages them to do the same. These REALTORS® are not just changing lives; they are building stronger, more vibrant communities.”

The 2024 Good Neighbor Award winners serve as a powerful reminder that real estate professionals are more than just transaction facilitators; they are integral members of their communities, committed to making a positive and lasting impact. Their dedication to service embodies the true spirit of community engagement and sets a shining example for others to follow.