Realtors® Reach Out celebrated throughout October

The Pennsylvania Association of Realtors®’ (PAR) annual Realtors® Reach Out Month began last week and will continue throughout the month of October. As part of the initiative, Realtors® throughout the state will participate in a variety of activities sponsored by their local associations to benefit a range of charities.

“Every year I’m inspired when I see so many of our members participate in our annual Realtors® Reach Out Month,” said Bette McTamney, PAR president. “I know many volunteer throughout the year – whether it’s a food drive, a Habitat for Humanity build, a neighborhood clean up or a fundraiser. Realtors® Reach Out allows us to combine our efforts and showcase the amazing contributions Realtors® make in their communities.”

The staff at PAR marked Realtors® Reach Out last Friday by volunteering at the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, the largest non-profit food distribution organization in central Pennsylvania. The PAR staff packed boxes of food to be distributed to the 800 partner agencies in 27 counties.

“PAR’s staff sees how our members make a difference in their communities and we enjoy being part of this worthy event. The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank helps so many people throughout the Commonwealth,” said Dave Phillips, CEO of PAR. “We have an atmosphere of giving at PAR. Our staff sponsors a variety of events throughout the year to give to several charities including the United Way, Caitlin’s Smiles, the American Cancer Society and the Alzheimer’s Foundation.”

In the past five years, more than 7,400 Realtors® across the state participated with 27 local Realtor® associations and boards, donated more than $208,000 and collected nearly 41,200 pounds of food and 2,000 pieces of clothing for charitable organizations. Realtors® have also refurbished homes, cleaned up local communities, held auctions and blood drives as part of this initiative.