Winter2015 CRMagazine

FROM THE CEO
“work for a cause; not applause; live life
to express, not to impress; don’t strive
to make your presence noticed, just
make your absence felt.”
I love this quote, as it summarizes the quiet commitment of our
members, volunteer leaders and staff to make a difference in the lives
of their families, firms, communities and the real estate industry.
It also aligns with our vision statement: The Chicago Association of
REALTORS ® prepares educated and innovative real estate professionals
to become engaged leaders in our ever-changing communities.
As we welcome in a new year, the 2015-16 leadership and staff have
been discussing how we can be more impactful leaders. We want to
seize this excellent opportunity to reflect on what we’ve been doing
well as leaders, and focus on how we can improve in the future.
I would like to offer three small, simple ways you can make a difference
as a leader in the coming year:
Invest in Yourself: The leadership of C.A.R. is investing in your
professional development by offering complimentary Continuing
Education through February 29, 2016. We hope you will take
advantage of this initiative, so that you can invest elsewhere — in
additional professional development, your family’s needs, your
community, or perhaps, RPAC and the C.A.R. Foundation.
Check out the entire list of
Foundation supporters.
Invest in Your Community: We at C.A.R. are proud of the leadership that
so many REALTORS ® demonstrate in their communities. This year, C.A.R.
is partnering with N.A.R. to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of America
(see more about the BGCA in Chicago on page 20). Please consider
volunteering a few hours of your time when we host service activities
and/or supporting the two clubs in Chicago with a small donation.
Invest in Your Industry: There are two simple ways to demonstrate
leadership to protect your industry. 1) Donate at least your fair share
in RPAC ( $ 20) and 2) Participate in Calls to Action. It takes less than a
minute to respond, and it ensures that you are using the REALTOR ®
influence to make our industry stronger.
Let’s make 2016 the best year yet. Here’s to the positive impact you
will make as a leader in Chicago!
GINGER DOWNS,
Chief Executive Officer
Chicago Association of REALTORS ®
6 Chicago REALTOR ® Magazine