By Kim Gandier
Today marks the end of a special week for the real estate industry in Manitoba.
Once again, the Manitoba government proclaimed November 21-25 as REALTOR® Week to formally recognize REALTORS® as community leaders, and for helping Manitobans through the most financially impactful decisions of their lives. Manitoba REALTORS® contribute to a multi-billion-dollar real estate industry each year. Home sales generate economic spinoffs that support over 6,600 jobs in Manitoba and strengthen local and provincial economies by contributing over one per cent to Manitoba’s gross domestic product.
To honour the week and our REALTOR® members, the Manitoba Real Estate Association (MREA) hosts an annual government relations symposium. This event brings real estate colleagues together with government officials to network, share knowledge, and advocate for policies that positively impact property owners. Held in person for the first time since 2019, the symposium was well-attended and a highlight of the celebratory week.
Throughout the year, REALTORS® make a significant impact in our communities by volunteering their time, raising funds through campaigns and events, and donating to important causes. During REALTOR® Week, representatives of the Manitoba REALTORS® Shelter Foundation Inc. visited shelter-related charities to provide grants to support Manitoba’s most vulnerable people.
Since 2008, the foundation has provided 127 grants to 41 shelter-related Manitoba charities totalling over a half-million dollars. This year, the foundation granted $34,222 to support families and individuals in need of shelter: Candace House, Esther House, Habitat for Humanity – Dauphin region, Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba, Manitoba Tipi Mitawa, RaY (Resource Assistance for Youth), Red Road Lodge, The Link, Women’s Safe Haven and Resource Centre in Flin Flon, YWCA Brandon, and Villa Rosa. 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.
Congratulations to the 2,600+ REALTORS® in our province who help us through the most financially impactful decisions of our lives and build stronger communities through their advocacy, volunteerism, and professional service.
Kim Gandier is the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Manitoba Real Estate Association.