March 05, 2021 | Claire Lyness

A legacy of giving: a look back at the CREB^® Charitable Foundation's 30-year anniversary 

Over the last three decades, CREB®'s Charitable Foundation has made a measurable philanthropic impact in Calgary and its surrounding area.

Made up of more than 5,400 REALTOR® members, the foundation exists to provide funding to shelter and community-related non-profits in Calgary and surrounding area.

A 30-year legacy of giving is no easy feat, and it took a village of dedicated and charitable individuals to help them get there.

"We'd like to give our sincerest thanks to the volunteers, donors and sponsors whose support has allowed us to reach this milestone," said Aneve MacKay-Lyons, CREB® Charitable Foundation manager. I'd also like to give a warm thank you to all of the incredible local partner charities who strengthen and support our community."

By striking the perfect mix of light-hearted and heart-felt, here are three key ways the foundation has made an impact in three decades.

Charitable giving

Since its inception in 1987, the foundation has given more than $6.3 million to over 150 local organizations through their Investing in HOPE program and other charitable initiatives.

"We are grateful for the warm hearts, generous giving and the impact you make each day toward a strong safety net for Calgarians," said Patty Kilgallon, CEO Children's Cottage Society, Investing in HOPE grant recipient. You have been there to help us serve 1,400 children each year and because of you, children have been given a safe, home-like shelter during troubled times."

This year, the foundation granted $300,000 to three local charities. It was one of the foundation's largest give to date, marking their 30-year milestone of community support.

Fundraising

In 2017, its Realtor members raised over $51,000 at local events and more than $35,000 in pledges and donations. From events such as the REALTOR® Round-up during Stampede in July to the CREB® Christmas Holiday Luncheon After-Luncheon Party, these Realtors know how to raise the roof – and raise funds.

Local volunteering

In addition to monetary support, the foundation's members donate countless volunteer hours each year to lend a helping hand. From building homes to bagging lunches for Calgary's youth, they're always rolling up their sleeves to help working families and those who need it most.

Gerrad Oishi, president & CEO of Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta, notes that Realtors provide unique insight and support to shelter and community-related initiatives.

"The CREB® Charitable Foundation has been a long-time friend of Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta and we are very grateful," said Oishi. "The foundation has given significant support for our affordable homeownership program, but it's more than that. Member Realtors have put their boots on the ground to help with construction and intuitively understand what the value of home means for working families."

This year, the foundation's volunteers exceeded over 1,000 volunteer hours and held 19 outreach dates.

Moving into the new year, the foundation hints of plans to take on big builds and development projects to continue its contribution to shelter and community related initiatives.

"The impact from our superhero members over the years has been outstanding," said MacKay-Lyons. "I can attest first-hand that it's an incredibly humbling and rewarding experience to be part of something so special like the foundation. With a 30-year legacy under our belt, I have no doubt there will be many more impactful years to come."

Head to creb.com to see more on the foundation's legacy of giving.

Tagged: Charitable Foundation | Charitable Foundation | Community Investment | Giving | REALTORS