As we near the end of the chapter on 2016, we reflect on the past year, specifically the efforts put forth by the “We’re More Than Realtors®...” (WMTR) campaign. The WMTR campaign was created by the Long Island Board of REALTORS® Public Relations committee in 2006.  The campaign’s objective is to raise public awareness about the Realtor® endeavors in our community, in addition to helping local residents buy and sell homes.

Over the past decade, the campaign has supported numerous organizations and philanthropic community programs across Long Island and throughout the world. Each year LIBOR members ardently dedicate their time and energy to support these programs; helping to make Long Island a better place to live.  From sponsoring the building of Habitat for Humanity homes yearly, to constructing wheelchair ramps for the disabled with Rebuilding Together Long Island, to actively opposing any public policies that impede homeownership opportunities.  Making a difference in our communities and touching lives in the neighborhoods in which we serve, is the embodiment of the "We're More Than Realtors®" campaign.

2016 also saw the sponsorship of more Long Island’s East End initiatives, beginning with the 6th Annual Hampton Bays Lions Club “Over the Bridge” 10K Run and 5K Run/Walk.  Proceeds from previous races were used to sponsor Seeing Eye dogs for returning wounded Veterans living in the Hampton Bays area. This year also brought a new partnership with the United Way of Long Island, to spread awareness about the importance of maintaining a healthy home.

In addition to the aforementioned programs, there is a scholarship program available through the WMTR campaign.  The second scholarship program is the newly created Realtor® Scouting Scholarship Award.   LIBOR awarded five $1,000 Scholarships to deserving New York Eagle Scouts and Gold Girl Scouts, who were entering their first year of college this fall.  LIBOR is honored to affiliate ourselves with the Boy and Girl Scouts of America, whose goal is to build the character of young women, men, boys and girls; and to recognize these extraordinary individuals by assisting them in their pursuit of higher education.

It is also through the WMTR campaign, that LIBOR continued the 9th Annual REALTORS® Against Hunger (RAH) initiative, to fight hunger in our local communities.   In the months of November and December participating REALTOR® offices have been collecting donations of non-perishable food items at their offices, events and food drives at neighboring supermarkets, throughout Nassau, Suffolk and Queens Counties.  This collection drive supports efforts to provide food to hundreds of local food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and other programs that feed the hungry.  With more than 316,000 children and adults at risk of hunger each day on Long Island, LIBOR is committed to helping provide critical food support to those in need and assisting our communities in the fight against hunger. 

To mark the launch of this pivotal program, LIBOR presented a $5,000 donation to Island Harvest, the largest hunger relief organization on Long Island.   This sponsorship donation will be used towards Island Harvest’s Annual Holiday Collection Campaign, which will help many struggling Long Island families enjoy special holiday meals and be able to count on regular meals throughout the holiday season.

“For the past nine years, it has been the mission of the REALTORS® Against Hunger initiative to not only raise thousands of pounds of food annually, but to bring awareness to the sharply rising problem of hunger here on Long Island.” said Mary Alice Ruppert, LIBOR President.   “It has become a valued tradition for our LIBOR and community members alike to join together to help less fortunate families enjoy special holiday meals and be able to count on regular meals through the holiday season.” added Ruppert. 

These are just a few of the many elements that encompass the “We’re More than Realtors®” campaign.  LIBOR is committed to continue our efforts with community organizations and outreach programs; and to inform and inspire our community to help those in need.  Please visit www.LIRealtor.com or email pr@lirealtor.com for more information.

Long Island REALTORS® are trusted professionals working for you and your community.