This article was originally published on hamiltoncountyherald.com
The Greater Chattanooga Association of Realtors (GCAR) will be donating $5,000 each year to the Realtors Relief Foundation (RRF) to support survivors of natural disasters and terrorist attacks. – Photograph by David Laprad
In the wake of the devastating floods that swept through southern Louisiana, the Greater Chattanooga Association of Realtors (GCAR) is putting into place an ongoing donation effort to provide needed support for not only recent victims but also future survivors of natural disasters and terrorist attacks.
As part of a long-term commitment to the cause, GCAR will be donating $5,000 each year to the Realtors Relief Foundation (RRF), with all of the funds going toward disaster relief efforts.
“As both Realtors and responsible citizens, one of our primary roles is that of a good neighbor,” said Nathan Walldorf, GCAR president. “Regardless of where and when relief efforts are needed, we want to play a part in rebuilding communities, healing families, and making homes stronger. This is one way we can do that on an ongoing basis.”
The National Association of Realtors first launched the RRF in 2001 within hours of the September 11 terrorist attacks, raising more than $8.4 million to help surviving family members remain in their homes. Since then, the RRF has raised more than $25 million for victims of disasters, providing housing-related and other needed assistance.
With more than 60,000 houses left damaged by the Louisiana floods and an aftermath compared by some to that of Hurricane Katrina, the RRF has committed up to $350,000 to assist the thousands of residents now displaced from their homes. Donations from GCAR, other local Realtor associations, and individual donors are playing a significant role in the RRF’s response to this mounting housing crisis.
Beyond GCAR’s pledged annual contribution, local Realtors also contribute to the Foundation’s annual online silent auction during the Realtors Conference & Expo.