The REALTORS® Charitable Foundation (RCF), the philanthropic arm of the Greater Rochester Association of REALTORS®, recently announced its First Quarter grant awards totaling more than $12,500 to local non-profit organizations. The foundation supports non-profit agencies that address critical housing needs and help to create sustainable neighborhoods.
The Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network, Inc. received $5,000 for its Emergency Homeless Fund, which provides money for clients’ emergency needs, such as food, medicine, and clothing and home setup.
The Bishop Sheen Ecumenical Housing Foundation was awarded $5,000 for its Emergency Home Repair Program, which provides grants to low-income families, seniors, and persons with disabilities for critical home repairs. Pathstone, formerly known as Rural Opportunities, received $2,500, for a project to beautify the North Union Street Gateway neighborhood to the historical Public Market.
“This is a good example of how REALTORS® are giving back,” said Cindy B-Rosato, an area REALTOR® and chair of the RCF Board of Directors. “As real estate professionals, we recognize that a vital aspect of doing business is taking responsibility for helping to preserve and enhance the quality of life in our community,” she continued. “It’s a role that we take very seriously.”
In addition to providing funds for area programs, REALTORS® have participated in various volunteer projects, such as Clean Sweep Days and neighborhood improvement projects with NeighborWorks Rochester for the Healthy Blocks Initiative in the North Winton Village Neighborhood.
Since its inception in 2001, the RCF has awarded more than $400,000 in grants to 33 local non-profit agencies. It receives its support from the Greater Rochester Association of REALTORS®, proceeds from its annual golf classic held in July, individual donations from area REALTORS®, and various other fundraising activities conducted throughout the year.