As REALTORS® and stewards of homeownership, we help communities become neighborhoods. A community becomes a neighborhood through the businesses, schools and—most importantly—the people who call it home. By bringing people into the homes of their dreams, we are a crucial part of the first step in creating vibrant, thriving neighborhoods.
Chicago recognizes 77 neighborhoods, and we at the Chicago Association of REALTORS® recognize and embrace our inherent responsibility to be good neighbors and provide equal opportunities for every resident.
One of the strongest ways we do this is through our Diversity Committee, The 77. Featuring one REALTOR® representative for each of Chicago’s neighborhoods, it supplies a direct voice for all 77 neighborhoods to hold a stake in our initiatives.
The members of the Diversity Committee ensure we are playing an intentional, active role in strengthening our communities by building relationships with elected officials and local community groups, providing insight into economic development and much more. We are working as active neighbors through The 77.
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have found a variety of ways to help Chicago businesses. We awarded grants to local, minority-owned small businesses that were impacted by the pandemic. From flower shops to restaurants to thrift stores and everything in between, we’ve provided financial relief to businesses in their time of need and allowed them to keep their doors open.
Our Foundation also supplied grants to your clients to protect their most valuable asset — their homes. First-time homeowners received warranty grants and second chance appraisal opportunities were awarded to those who received appraisals that failed to equal or exceed the home’s purchase price.
If you’re looking for ways to get involved and create stronger neighborhoods, there are opportunities beyond being part of the Diversity Committee. Volunteer your time with local organizations, get involved with your chamber of commerce, start a block club or start a group for gardening. Seek out opportunities to use your REALTOR® expertise and combine it with something you’re passionate about. Our potential to make positive differences in our neighborhoods and become better neighbors starts with each person.
If you have ideas on how we can continue our mission, please reach out!
MICHELLE MILLS CLEMENT, FASAE, CAE, RCE
Chief Executive Officer
Chicago Association of REALTORS®