More good delivered to the community
Last month we reported that more than a hundred of your goof-off Realtors were out playing golf. We are pleased to report that we accomplished what we set out to do; had a great time and raised some much needed money for a very worthy cause.
This fundraising event was help to raise money for the North Idaho Violence Prevention Center. The North Idaho Violence Prevention Center provides 24-hour crisis intervention to people in need for anyone affected by domestic violence. The North Idaho Violence Prevention Center (NIVPC) has been assisting families in crisis as a result of violence since 1977. They are a nonprofit agency and their services are provided free of charge.
Due to the tireless efforts of our Community Outreach Committee and volunteers who staffed the event, we had 30 teams of Realtors, Bankers, Title Officers, Home Inspectors and several members from professions at large participate in the event. As a result, we were able to present a check for $6,200 to the center to help them continue their work.
As nonprofit groups continue to struggle in these difficult economic times, the Coeur d'Alene Association of Realtors - a nonprofit group - continues our commitment to be contributing members of our community. The NIVPC is certainly deserving. Take a look at their growing challenges:
• In 2008/2009 program year, NIVPC sheltered 78 women and 66 children and provided crisis counseling to 750 women, children and men, both primary and secondary victims.
• In 2010/2011 program year, these numbers increased to 222 women and 150 children sheltered, with 2,230 counseling contacts. In addition at the shelter we provided 1,795 bednights and 5,385 meals were served.
And the need continues to grow, even with the recent loss of federal funding. If someone you know is in need of help or if you would like to donate money or items for resale at their Thrift Store, please contact:
Callie Weatherford
Programs Manager/ Staff Manager
North Idaho Violence Prevention Center
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
(208) 664-9303
Another recipient of our fundraising efforts was the Post Falls Police Department who received $860 for their Victims Services Unit and their OASIS Program. According to their website, www.postfallspolice.com, "The Victim Services Unit is an innovative approach between law enforcement and victim advocates providing direct, immediate services and shelter to victims of domestic violence and other crimes.
"The advocates, employees of the Post Falls Police Department, are on call 24 hours a day to respond with officers to give assistance to victims.
Support is ongoing and can include shelter, medical, court and prosecution assistance. The Victim Services Unit operates an emergency shelter and support groups for victims and children. A resource library, volunteer corps, community education and training are also available."
Rather than turn our heads to the problems the current economy brings to this and all communities, the Coeur d'Alene Association of Realtors is doing something about them and we are having fun doing it. How about you?
Trust an expert... call a Realtor. Call your Realtor or visit www.cdarealtors.com to search properties on the Multiple Listing Service or to find a Realtor member who will represent your best interests.
Kim Cooper is a real estate broker and the spokesman for the Coeur d'Alene Association of Realtors. Kim and the association invite your feedback and input for this column. You may contact them by writing to the Coeur d'Alene Association of Realtors, 409 W. Neider, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815 or by calling (208) 667-0664.