Calgary Real Estate Blog

As a Governor for the CREB® Charitable Foundation, I feel that this article about the 25th Anniversary of the Foundation is a great introduction to this year's celebratory "25 for 25" program! I'm proud to be an elected representative of the membership of the Calgary Real Estate Board and feel that Calgary REALTORS® will be pleased with what we are giving back to Calgarians this year!

From the March 9, 2012 issue of CREB News. 

The CREB® Charitable Foundation turns 25 this year and is celebrating in a big way by giving back to the Calgary and area community.

Since its inception in 1987, the CREB® Charitable Foundation and Calgary and area REALTORS® have been working with the community developing innovative and sustainable solutions to shelter-related needs and initiatives.

Contributing $4.2 million to charities and organizations - including the Brenda Strafford Society, Inn From the Cold and the YWCA - the CREB® Charitable Foundation is launching the 25 for 25 program commemorating it's 25 year anniversary.

In 2012, on behalf of Calgary and area REALTORS®, CREB® Charitable Foundation is distributing 25 gifts of $25,000 each to 25 charities and/or non-profit organizations throughout Calgary and area. The first 10 25 for 25 recipients are to be selected by the Charitable Foundation board of Governors with the remaining 15 to be nominated and voted upon by area REALTORS® starting in July.

"Calgary and area REALTORS® are very appreciative of the business they receive in our communities. More often than not they lead the way in stepping up to give back" said Tom Scott, president of the CREB® Charitable Foundation. "CREB® Charitable Foundation was formed 25 years ago by these REALTORS® to act as a vehicle to distribute funding in the community in an organized and responsible manner."

Of the first 10 grants, two have already been presented. On March 5, Calgary YMCA was presented with $25,000 for its Strong Kids Campaign and on March 9, $25,000 was distributed to the Banff YWCA for its Bow Valley Women's Shelter Program.

The Strong Kids campaign raises financial support for families unable to afford the cost of participation in a YMCA program or activity. Donated funds are distributed for a number of things within the program including helping a child attend day camp for the first time or helping youth gain the confidence and skills to avoid addiction, violence and isolation.

The YWCA of Banff has been serving the Bow Valley for the last 100 years working to empower women and their communities through "leadership, advocacy and provision of meaningful services."

The 25 for 25 program wraps up in November 2012 with a gala luncheon.

The CREB® Charitable Foundation includes a membership of over 5,100 area REALTORS® and includes recent contributions of $101,000 in 2011 to Inn From The Cold, Kerby Centre and Sonshine Community Services.