Realtors® Are Good Neighbors: Linda Pelkofer

Linda Pelkofer is a Realtor® and a good neighbor spearheading breast cancer awareness and fundraising efforts. Her “Pink Tag Sale” project collects donated items and sells them to the public to raise money for the cause. 

“Twenty-two years ago, I originated the Pink Tag Sale to benefit breast cancer research and breast cancer services here in Pittsburgh,” Pelkofer, a member of the Realtors® Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh, says. “What started out as one little room of items that raised $585 has now grown to two large sales a year, with over $131,000 raised by items that cost about a dollar or less.” 

“When we list or sell a home, we let our clients know that items they no longer need or want can be donated to the sale. We do pick-ups and have a 24/7 drop-off bin in the rear of our office,” she adds, referring to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty.  

“The money we’ve raised has gone toward the research that has resulted in a breast cancer vaccine that is being tested here in Pittsburgh, the free mammograms offered to those not insured or under the age requirement for mammograms and the free services offered to women and men fighting their breast cancer battle. We have also teamed with A Glimmer of Hope as our beneficiary, and they have been wonderful stewards of the raised funds.” 

“Being a Realtor® has allowed me and the agents and staff in my office to spread the word about breast cancer and together raise funds that can help in that battle,” Pelkofer says. “We witness how many sellers just throw items away when they are moving, and this program allows those items to be sold to help a worthy cause.” 

“When that check is presented each year to A Glimmer of Hope, we all feel how the generosity of others can collectively make a huge impact. Real estate has provided us with the platform to do this. My advice to other agents is to find a passion and just go for it! We are blessed to be in this business, and giving back is part of being blessed.” 

If you know a Realtor® who’s a good neighbor in their community, send their name and initiative to Hope Walborn for a chance to be highlighted in JustListed.