People for Person
Subscribers may already know after Wednesday's article in this paper, but to us and the folks in East Coeur d'Alene, a new playground at Person Field is a big deal. Since 1945 when the Coeur d'Alene Association of Realtors was first established, our communities have grown accustomed to involvement from our members. Our frequent donations to various groups have undoubtedly made a difference but largely our donations are used up in short order and gone, even if not forgotten.
Realtors are more than just real estate agents. When we become Realtors we sign an oath to adhere to a strict code of ethics that surpasses the requirements of real estate laws in most states. Our 17-item code is under annual revision to be kept current with the times and allows us to mete out discipline to members who deviate from those prescribed norms in their business practices. Although since the adoption of the code in 1912 the National Association of Realtors has quietly monitored, reprimanded and disciplined our members, the term Realtor for many has been synonymous with "real estate agent." The code gives us a clear distinction. Now, at least at Person Field, it should be even more clear that Realtors are more than just agents.
Our 2014 Board of Directors under the guidance of President Denise Lundy decided that a community project a bit more durable than "as needed" donations would provide a legacy for our members and our community. The city's recent acquisition of the northern portion of Person Field presented just that opportunity. After several meetings with neighbors near the park, the city discovered that most felt a playground would be beneficial, especially to those families with younger children whose brothers and sisters are involved in team sports there. Without a playground the younger siblings can only run around or play on the grass or in the dirt.
After dedication later this summer of the new, Realtor funded playground, kids will have a bona fide play structure for years to come. It feels good to be a part of it. Not that we are abandoning our other altruistic endeavors. Just last Tuesday as an example, we organized and executed a bowling tournament as a benefit for the Veteran's Stand Down that will take place in May. We have often supported this effort, which provides much needed services to our Veterans, many of whom are homeless.
Even though the Veterans' Services Coordinator, Eric Swanbeck's salary is funded by St. Vincent de Paul, the services provided to veterans are separate from all other St. Vinny's operations and they are dependent upon grants and donations for their services. We found it interesting to discover that only Vets with honorable discharges are eligible for assistance from the Veterans' Administration. Those discharged with less than honorable status due to sexual orientation, substance abuse or misdemeanors are ineligible regardless of need.
Each year, Stand Down offers assistance to veterans with everything from counseling (often for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) dental assistance, food, hygiene products, clothing, bedding, bicycle repair and even veterinary services for those whose only friend is their ever present pet. More than 40 providers will offer their services at no cost during this one day event. Not only are we Realtors offering cash donations, a number of us will be at the event to lend a hand.
We will continue to raise funds for other needy organizations in the community as well, but the playground at Person Field is not only our largest but likely our most lasting contribution to the communities we love.
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.