When disaster strikes, communities often find themselves in dire need of support and resources. In such times, the real estate industry steps up through initiatives like the REALTORS® Relief Foundation (RRF), demonstrating the power of collective action and professional solidarity.
RRF, established by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) in 2001, is a rapid response system for communities affected by natural disasters. Its primary mission is to assist victims of disasters, helping them regain stability during challenging times.
In August 2023, the devastating wildfires that swept through Maui left thousands homeless and in desperate need of aid. RRF swiftly mobilized, showcasing the real estate community’s commitment to those affected by this tragedy.
The fund’s response to the Maui wildfires was substantial. Within days of the disaster, RRF had allocated significant resources to support more than 800 homeowners and renters. The assistance provided included temporary housing support, mortgage payment assistance, and rental aid for those displaced by the fires. The RRF increased the initial grant from $1.5M to $1.9M in May 2024.
Tricia Nekota, CRS, president of the Residential Real Estate Council (RRC) from Honolulu, Hawaii, emphasizes the importance of the RRF’s work. “I was born and raised in Hawaii. The wildfires that destroyed the ancestral community of Lahaina and took the lives of 102 people affected me deeply. The REALTORS® Relief Foundation’s rapid response demonstrates our industry’s commitment to supporting communities in their darkest hours. It’s not just about real estate; it’s about being there for our Ohana (family) when they need us most.”
The RRF’s impact on Maui extended beyond immediate financial assistance. By partnering with local REALTOR® associations and community organizations, the fund helped coordinate volunteer efforts.
This collaborative approach amplified the fund’s effectiveness, ensuring that resources were directed where they were most needed. From helping families find temporary housing to assisting with insurance claims and rebuilding efforts, real estate professionals on the ground played a crucial role in the community’s recovery.
The Maui wildfire response also highlighted the RRF’s ability to mobilize resources quickly. Through a combination of pre-existing funds and a targeted fundraising campaign, the RRF was able to provide substantial aid within two weeks.
RRF’s work in Maui serves as a powerful reminder of the real estate industry’s capacity for community support. It exemplifies how real estate professional can leverage their professional networks and expertise to make a tangible difference.
As the recovery efforts in Maui continue, RRF remains actively involved, adapting its support to meet the evolving needs of the community. This ongoing commitment underscores the fund’s dedication to long-term recovery, not just immediate relief.
The Maui wildfire response is just one example of the RRF’s impact. The fund has disbursed millions of dollars in aid across numerous disasters nationwide, including hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and wildfires.
For real estate professionals looking to get involved, supporting the REALTORS® Relief Foundation offers a direct way to contribute to disaster relief efforts. Whether through donations, volunteering or raising awareness, every contribution helps strengthen the industry’s ability to respond when communities are in need. For more information and to donate, visit www.rrf.realtor.
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