From childhood dreams of opening a senior dog rescue to actively contributing to the welfare of furry friends, Shelee Brim, CRS, a sales agent at Keller Williams Legacy Partners, Inc. in Shawnee, Kansas, has seamlessly integrated her passion for animals into her career as a residential real estate professional. Brim’s journey is not only about buying and selling houses; it’s a heartwarming tale of commitment to community, volunteering and making a difference in the lives of both humans and their four-legged companions.
As an owner of four rescue dogs, Brim’s love for canines began early in life. “I have been a dog lover since I was a little girl. As a child, I brought home stray dogs and would help find homes for them,” she says. Her childhood rescue experiences set the stage for her future endeavors. When The Little Red Barn of Always and Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary opened in Spring Hill, Kansas, it prompted Brim to dive into volunteering. From spending time with the dogs to facilitating their “freedom rides,” she quickly became an integral part of the rescue community.
“A little over two years ago, Imagine FURever Ranch opened less than two miles from my house,” says Brim, “I knew that was a sign.” This opening solidified her commitment to animal welfare. Taking an active role in building the organization, she served as the intake coordinator, assisting families who had to surrender their dogs and connecting them with new homes. Many dogs arrived from homes where owners faced housing constraints, demonstrating the impactful role Brim played in the lives of both pets and their owners.
The relationship formed through volunteering not only enriched Brim’s personal life but also influenced her real estate career. As a solo agent turned team leader of KC Homes and Hounds, Brim ensures that every transaction contributes to the well-being of shelter dogs. “Furry friends are definitely a part of my life and my business,” says Brim. “Everyone on the team has a passion for rescue animals. With each transaction, I sponsor the adoption fee for a dog in a local shelter.”
Brim’s commitment goes beyond the canine community; as a former first-grade teacher, she actively engages with the community, helping former students purchase their first homes. Tragically, the loss of one of her former students, Isabella Grace Ford, led to the creation of a nonprofit in her honor. Brim sponsors and participates in the annual Grace Iz Forever 5K Dog Walk, with funds raised benefiting local animal shelters.
Brim’s story exemplifies the power of combining professional success with a profound commitment to community service. Her journey as a Certified Residential Specialist is not just a career; it’s a testament to the transformative impact one person can have on the lives of both humans and their beloved pets.
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Photo: iStock.com/max-kegfire
