Long Island Board of REALTORS® (LIBOR) has named REALTOR® Vincent Alessi as its 2021 REALTOR® Spirit Award recipient, in recognition of his commitment and exceptional volunteer efforts with Long Beach Latino Civic Association (LBLCA).

The REALTOR® Spirit Award recognizes a remarkable member who has made an incredible impact on their community through selfless and dedicated volunteer work. LIBOR gifts the organization through which the honoree volunteers time and talents a $5,000 donation.  

Alessi, a licensed REALTOR® salesperson with Charles Rutenberg Realty in Plainview, NY, has worked tirelessly to aid LBLCA in its mission to serve, support and empower the Latino community. His most significant contribution took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he spearheaded volunteer efforts to support 150 homebound families. For months, Alessi single-handedly shopped for food, disinfecting supplies, paper products and child care items and organized the distribution and delivery to the families in need. His efforts then extended to assist in scheduling COVID-19 vaccine appointments for those who were incapable of doing so themselves.

Alessi graciously opened his home and shared his talents as a chef for two fundraising dinner events for the association, raising over $7,000 through these efforts.

Internally, Alessi purchased and installed new computer equipment and was instrumental in creating bookkeeping systems to ensure the association was running effectively and efficiently.  In 2020, Alessi also helped to transition LBLCA’s staff to remote work operations.

“It is both an honor and privilege to be a volunteer working alongside Long Beach Latino Civic Association,” said Alessi. “The work that they perform is tireless, selfless, and admirable, as they strive daily to ensure people have food to eat, a home, employment, healthcare, and a voice in their community.”

LBLCA has been serving the Latino community and those in need since 1995. As an association, it empowers the Latino population to become integral members of the community, while embracing both American experiences and distinct Latino cultures. Through publications, outreach, community surveys, leadership development, and public forums, the Association promotes environmental justice, cultural awareness and civic participation.  

“Long Island Board of REALTORS® is proud to recognize Vincent Alessi as this year’s REALTOR® Spirit Award recipient,” said 2021 LIBOR President Susan Helsinger.  “His determination and commitment in supporting LBLCA has truly made a difference in so many lives.”

The REALTOR® Spirit Award was created in 2006 and has since recognized more than 50 local REALTORS® for their outstanding commitment to community service. REALTOR® Spirit Award charities have received more than $65,000 in donations. In addition, each winner receives local publicity, which generates additional donations and inspires new volunteers to get involved and make their communities a better place to live.