Manitoba REALTORS® Shelter Foundation actively supports shelter-related causes

By Kim Gandier

Manitoba REALTORS® wholeheartedly believe that shelter is a human right and understand that organized fundraising and philanthropy are integral to creating strong communities.

Throughout the year, REALTORS® across Canada make a significant impact in their communities by volunteering their time and donating to important causes. Manitoba REALTORS® are among the most giving professionals in the country.

The Manitoba REALTORS® Shelter Foundation Inc. grants funds to shelter-related charities in Manitoba, which includes organizations offering temporary shelter, meals, and safety from violence to vulnerable citizens, including children.

The Manitoba REALTORS® Shelter Foundation was created by, and for, Manitoba REALTORS® to support shelter-related causes in our province. The foundation is led by a board of governors consisting of REALTOR® volunteers and public individuals, all of whom are passionate about community involvement and leadership.

Since 2008, the foundation has provided 116 grants to 39 shelter-related charities totalling close to a half-million dollars. In 2021, the foundation granted $35,678 to support families and individuals in need of shelter: Esther House Inc., Habitat for Humanity Manitoba Inc., Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba (IRCOM), Manitoba Tipi Mitawa Inc., R.A.Y. Resource Assistance for Youth Inc., Red Road Lodge Inc., Samaritan House Ministries Inc., SEED Winnipeg Inc., and Two Ten Recovery Inc. From women and children in crisis and people living with disabilities, to the homeless population and those who are recovering from addictions, there is no limit to the number of people needing shelter.

The Manitoba REALTORS® Shelter Foundation Inc. was recently rebranded to create a more impactful ethos and to represent all Manitoba REALTORS® and their commitment to creating better communities. To learn more about the foundation and to see our new brand look visit: https://manitobarealtorsshelterfoundation.ca

Manitoba REALTORS® raise funds for the foundation through campaigns and events, and Manitoba’s property buyers and sellers make a difference when they work with REALTORS® who participate in The Close a Sale - Open a Door program. Through this program, $10 for every house sold in Manitoba is donated to make shelter possible for someone else.

Like other charities, the foundation has been unable to host in-person fundraising events since 2020 which has impacted our donations received and disbursed to Manitoba charities. As provincial health restrictions have eased, we are thrilled to host the Brian M. Collie Memorial Shelter Classic Golf Tournament once again, taking place Tuesday, June 28, at St. Boniface Golf Club. The foundation is actively looking for sponsors, and if you are interested in connecting with Manitoba’s real estate community, please get in touch.

In 2021, one of the recipients of a Shelter Foundation grant was the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba (IRCOM). IRCOM empowers newcomer families to integrate into the wider community through three-year, affordable, transitional housing, coupled with onsite holistic programs and services. The grant was provided in support of renovations in the 95 Ellen Street apartment complex.

Another 2021 funding recipient was Habitat for Humanity Manitoba (HFHM). By mobilizing volunteers and community partners, HFHM works with people from all walks of life to build safe, decent, affordable housing for purchase by families in need.  The grant was provided in support of the electrical equipment, supplies, and installation for a side-by-side unit in Landmark.

Amber van den Broek, 2022 Chair of the Manitoba REALTORS® Shelter Foundation, shares her enthusiasm about the year ahead. “The foundation governors are focused on building awareness about the foundation, raising funds and showcasing how shelter charities positively impact our communities. We are also excited to connect with fellow REALTORS® and the community at fundraising events throughout the year.”

Kim Gandier is the Director of Marketing and Communications at the Manitoba Real Estate Association.

Photo supplied by MREA: IRCOM receiving a Manitoba REALTORS® Shelter Foundation grant in 2021. From left to right: 2021 Manitoba REALTORS® Shelter Foundation Board of Governors Vice-Chair, Amber van den Broek, 2021 Manitoba REALTORS® Shelter Foundation Board of Governors Chair, Tony Rinella, IRCOM Housing Assistant, Ligia Mariz, IRCOM Fund Development Specialist, Maligne Esposito.