What can I say, last night at the Can's For Kids Chili Cook Off was just one of those "feel good" moments that truly made me proud to be called a REALTOR®. The parking lot was full of the best professionals in town, and they were all there for one purpose and one purpose only and that was to raise funds to provide food for the underprivileged children in Garland County.
What started over 7 years ago as a lunch room conversation between my mother and I, has exploded in to one of the largest fundraising events in the history of the Hot Springs Board of REALTORS. Each year Trademark Real Estate host the Hot Springs Board of REALTORS Can's For Kids Chili Cook Off, and since its inception in 2002, it has been a tremendous success raising over $70,000. The best part of the whole program is the realization that EVERY penny of the money stays in the community and is spent on those that are in need.
This year the cook off featured over 30 chili and booth entries. There were REALTORS®, title companies, banks, mortgage companies, local retail businesses, and fitness gyms that participated. Each entry was judged not only on Chili but also on booth setup and costumes. There were booth theme's that ranged from Santa and Mrs. Clause to the Beverly Hillbillies. Not to mention a special appearance from Elvis and the Pink Ladies.
The Hot Springs Board of REALTORS® Cans For Kids Program was presented to the Board in 2002 by the incoming President at the time, Cris Salazar. From the beginning this program has provided food for the local school systems, and over the last several years it has provided weekly donations of food to the 7 local school districts. In 2007 this program branched out to also provide each of the 7 school districts with $500 a piece in school supplies at the beginning of each school year.
It is because of the REALTORS® of the Hot Springs Board, and what they offer to our community that I can honestly say that the mark of a TRUE professional is giving more than you get. My fellow REALTORS® came out in full force last night and did just that, they portrayed a TRUE REALTOR® spirit!
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