Realtor® Relief Foundation Helps Disaster Relief Efforts

The Realtors® Relief Foundation has made an incredible impact on communities over the past 20 years. Since its inception, RRF has dispersed $44 million to victims of more than 183 disaster recoveries. More than 22,000 families have been helped in 43 states/territories.

The National Association of Realtors® created the foundation within hours of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and the NAR leadership team encouraged Realtors® across the country to donate to the nonprofit. Within 100 days, more than $8.4 million was raised to provide urgent housing-related assistance for those struggling in the aftermath.

Last year, RRF received the most requests in the organization’s history, approving more than $8.3 million for disaster relief efforts for 25 disasters.

“We’re on pace this year to break both of those records, having funded 15 relief efforts for $7.3M through the first week of July,” said Jeff Borchardt, RRF campaign director.

“RRF works with our state and local association partners to address the need quickly,” according to RRF President Michael McGrew. “Realtors® know the community better than anyone, and the associations can quickly identify where the need is, how many homes have been impacted, and how much support is needed.”

In Pennsylvania, the Bucks County Association of Realtors® received more than $40,000 in grants for a 2021 flooding incident. Last year, the Realtors® Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh received a $26,000 grant to aid families following a residential explosion in Allegheny County that affected more than 10 homes.

As of the beginning of July, Pennsylvania ranks No. 2 in the country toward its 2024 fundraising goal of $15,000.

“Realtors® are tremendous ambassadors in their communities and are always willing to reach out to lend assistance,” says PAR Past President Bette McTamney, who serves as the Region 2 RRF liaison. “I’m so proud of the ongoing efforts of the RRF as we’ve helped disaster victims of devasting flooding, disastrous wildfires, overwhelming snowstorms and tragic tornados.”

McTamney adds, “Pennsylvania Realtors® have been extremely generous in providing financial assistance to the foundation. I encourage my fellow Realtors® to consider making a contribution to this worthy charity. RRF commits 100% of every dollar contributed to support disaster relief efforts.”

Members can donate to the Relief Foundation by texting TEAMRRF TO 71777 or visiting the website at RRF.realtor.