Those who have lived and worked in our community, whether in Wilson, Smith, or Dekalb County, for any length of time can recall some of the natural disasters that have beset our area, from heavy rains leading to flooding, to tornadoes leaving devastation in their wake, and more.

When those events occur, like the true Tennesseans we are, we all rally to help our neighbors. We donate supplies, send money, show up to volunteer, stand in line to give blood, offer prayers and encouragement and comfort to all who must navigate the pain of a home damaged or destroyed—or, much, much worse, who endure the loss of a loved one. We care, so we act.

One of the avenues of support beyond our local area that we also appreciate is the REALTORS^® Relief Foundation (RRF), which was established as part of NAR after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001.

Within hours of the attacks, NAR leaders launched efforts to secure contributions to aid those impacted. NAR leveraged its leadership, infrastructure, and standing as the world’s largest trade association to rally members and supporters. Donors responded, standing in solidarity with fellow countrymen and -women to help impacted families rise from the rubble and ash. More than $8.4 million poured in to provide urgent housing-related assistance for those struggling in the aftermath. Funds were raised and distributed within 100 days to ensure families remained in their homes.

Thus the RRF was born. And thanks to the tremendous support of REALTORS^® Relief Foundation donors, the RRF continues to provide hope to families across the nation.

How deep is its impact now? Consider that in 2024, the foundation provided assistance to 9,000-plus families in 22 states with a total of $13.9 million in relief. That was 66.5% more than the previous year.

Not that from away from EMTAR, the RRF has helped many displaced by Hurricane Helene’s ravaging flooding in North Carolina and Tennessee. Now, as the city of Los Angeles and its surrounding area are still reeling from the recent wildfires and just beginning the long process of rebuilding, the RRF is there, too—and we as REALTORS^® have the opportunity to step up once again, helping the people most affected.

“The start of 2025 saw the most destructive wildfires in California’s history ravage the Los Angeles area,” says Greg Hrabcak, president of the REALTORS^® Relief Foundation. “The historic destruction has not stopped and has thus far resulted in hundreds of homes decimated, thousands of people displaced, and many lives lost.

“As your heart goes out to the victims of the California wildfires, donate now to help bring hope and immediate assistance to those in crisis. Give by 1/31/25 to ensure 100% of your donation is earmarked for California wildfire victims.”

On a related note, we were among many saddened to hear of the recent passing of Tennessee’s own Martin Edwards, Jr., who served as NAR president and was a founding member of the relief foundation. Martin embodied the selfless, giving spirit of the Volunteer State in his service to the real estate industry on the local, state, and national levels. The positive difference the RRF has made over these 24-plus years since 9/11 is thanks in large part to his dedication, vision, and sacrificial service to the REALTOR^® community.

One tangible way to help keep Martin’s legacy alive is to support the foundation and spread the word to others in our firms and communities. Together, we can continue to make a difference. And doing so makes perfect sense, because a heart of giving back is woven into the fabric of “who we R” as real estate professionals and engaged members of our communities.

To learn more and donate to the foundation, visit rrf.realtor today.

About EMTAR: Chartered in 1969, our Association’s 1,300+ REALTORS^® are a proud part of the 36,000+ members of Tennessee REALTORS^® and of the 1.5 million+ members of NAR, all working to serve the public and protect the rights of America’s property owners. EMTAR members are known not only for their unmatched real estate excellence and high ethical standards, but also for being generous, hospitable, others-focused, loyal, hardworking, and eager to help wherever and whenever help is needed.