Real estate is first and foremost a people business, and social responsibility is woven into the fabric of the job. Apart from the greeting cards, calendars, or other mailings that are an annual holiday tradition for agents, many practitioners look for more meaningful ways to give back to the communities they serve – and for entertaining ways to involve their clients in the giving.

The first step is deciding where and how to give. Here are some things to consider:

• Toys for Tots, Volunteers of America, Kids in Need, and numerous local organizations collect toys and personal items for kids in need. Set up a collection barrel in your office and send clever invitations to past clients offering hot cider and treats on a given day in exchange for such donations.
• Partner with a local charity and start a crowdfunding campaign. Your marketing know-how, community standing, and the loyalty of past clients can help to raise significant funds for local needs.
• Host a family day. Arrange to take holiday-themed photos, hold a cookie decorating contest, and provide small gifts for the kids to take home. Regardless of whether charitable giving is encouraged, you will help to build camaraderie.
• Give back to seniors. Put out the call for colleagues and past clients to donate sweaters, socks, slippers, laptop blankets, and large-print books for distribution to a local assisted living center for seniors.
• Offer holiday wrapping. Get a few good gift-wrappers together and offer wrapping services for a few hours one weekend – either free for goodwill or for a charitable donation.

Whatever you choose to do, promotion is everything, so put your best social media marketing skills to work to ensure good participation. And if you’re looking for a good cause to support, consider the REALTORS® Relief Foundation, an organization that supports relief efforts to areas affected by natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods and wildfires.

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This material is meant for general illustration and/or informational purposes only. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, no representation is made as to its accuracy. This material is not intended to be construed as legal, tax or investment advice. You are encouraged to consult your legal, tax or investment professional for specific advice.

About Bobbi Pronin

Bobbi Pronin is an award-winning writer based in Orange County, Calif. A former news editor with more than 30 years of experience in journalism and corporate communications, she has specialized in real estate topics for over a decade.

Bobbi is not an employee of Anywhere Integrated Services or affiliated with its title companies.