Realtors® Are Good Neighbors: Michelle Senko and Bette McTamney

In 2026, PAR President David Dean is focused on recognizing good neighbors within the Realtor® community, taking inspiration from the good neighbor many of us know and love: Mr. Rogers. 

Each month, PAR will feature a Realtor® who is a good neighbor in a JustListed article. To start the year off, Dean wants to recognize two good neighbors making a change in their communities and beyond. 

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. 

Michelle Senko, Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh 

Michelle Senko first became involved with the Realtors® Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh through their Community Service Committee, which has now expanded throughout the Pittsburgh region and partnered with organizations like Veterans Place, the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Light of Life, The Daily Bread, Robins Place and Shepherd Heart.  

“Our work with the Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh has been particularly special,” Senko says. “Supporting women, children and families that are victims of domestic violence and abuse through housing, advocacy, legal support and outreach programs, the WCS ultimately provides a host of instrumental resources that help transform a victim into a survivor.” 

“As a survivor of domestic violence myself, I know my work, my life, would not have been possible without a community of support, and the WCS is exactly that for so many! Working to protect and uplift those who need it most, they’ve served over 8,200 recipients of care last year alone.” 

“From wrapping gifts at the holiday workshop to craft nights with the kids, RAMP is honored to participate in the aspects of care the WCS provides to the Pittsburgh community through volunteering, service and philanthropic efforts,” she says. “Our work is a testament to the power of collaboration, a work that extends far ‘Beyond the Contract’ – a theme I recently imparted as the 2025 president of RAMP, meant to inspire my peers to get involved!” 

“Being a Realtor® means being an advocate to your community first,” Senko emphasizes. “My passion for the real estate industry goes far beyond a job. For me, it is about connecting with my community, supporting our leaders, giving back, elevating my peers and being a good neighbor and friend.” 

“Participating in these foundational elements of our business through community service, government relations, education and philanthropy, we are leading impactful involvement in our communities’ growth, contributing to something bigger than ourselves and the legacy we will leave behind.” 

“My spirit to share this mission lives on, making an impact well beyond the contract.” 

Bette McTamney, Realtors® Relief Foundation 

Bette McTamney currently serves as the National Association of Realtors® Region 2 Liaison for the Realtors® Relief Foundation, an organization that brings Realtors® together to help provide housing-related assistance to disaster-impacted communities. Since its inception 25 years ago, RRF has provided more than $52 million in direct assistance, helping over 35,000 families..  

“I have always been involved with my local community,” McTamney, a Tri-County Suburban Realtors® member and a past PAR president, says. “Not only did I enjoy being active in local groups, sports, school events and volunteer organizations, but I also taught my children the value of giving back. Community involvement has become part of who we are as a family.” 

“I did not hesitate when asked to become an advocate for RRF,” she recalls. “Disasters happen every day, and people need support during some of the most difficult moments in their lives. RRF was founded after the events of 9/11, with a mission to provide quick financial assistance to families affected by the disaster. That’s one of the main reasons I jumped right in.” 

“While our own community has fortunately not faced a major disaster, I have never been shy about asking others to support those in need. RRF is there for people when they need help the most, and since disasters never stop, neither do we.” 

McTamney shares that her career as a Realtor® has helped her be a good neighbor. Working in the same community for over 40 years has allowed her to become more deeply involved in local organizations as well, including coaching cheerleading, sponsoring local teams, supporting school events and sponsoring an exchange student. 

“I truly believe in being a good neighbor, both personally and professionally,” she says. 

“There are always opportunities to get involved in our communities that bring a strong sense of purpose and accomplishment. I think helping others become involved is to find something you care about and volunteer. Whether it’s schools, sports, local charities or disaster relief, your time and effort make a difference. Not only does volunteering help others, but it also connects you with your neighbors and helps strengthen our communities.” 

“Organizations like RRF show us how powerful it is to step up and support families in need,” McTamney adds. “If you would like to give to RRF, text RRF25STRONG to 71777 – tax deductible!”