REALTORS^® are so much more than real estate experts. They are leaders and change-makers who make a real impact where they live and work. To highlight some of the amazing work our members do on behalf of their communities, we’ll be running this new quarterly feature, REAL Impact, to celebrate some of the (many!) ways our Virginia’s local REALTOR^® associations are giving back.

We are thrilled to kick-off this feature with a look back at a recent food drive orchestrated by the Southwest Virginia Association of REALTORS^® (SWVAR). On June 5th, SWVAR demonstrated the power of community in action by packing more than 10,000 meals in under two hours for donation to Feeding Southwest Virginia, a regional food bank serving 26 counties and nine cities across Southwest Virginia.

SWVAR Food Drive, June 2025

In partnership with The Outreach Program, which provided the bulk food and logistics support, REALTOR^® members, affiliate partners, and local volunteers came together for a high-energy, hands-on event that delivered more than just meals—it delivered hope. The effort is part of SWVAR’s ongoing commitment to community outreach and service. Beyond feeding families, the event fostered connection and reinforced the REALTOR^® mission of improving lives through action and advocacy.

Steve Willinger, 2025 President of the Southwest Virginia Association of REALTORS^® says, “I recognize the importance of addressing food insecurity in our region. Our community outreach meal-packing event is a meaningful initiative that provides nourishment and support to those in need. By working together, we strengthen our commitment to service and demonstrate the values that guide our association.”

To help put their desire to give back into action, SWVAR applied for a Virginia REALTORS^® Community Engagement Grant. Local associations can use the Virginia REALTORS^® Community Engagement Grant to add value to the REALTOR^® brand at their local association. The grant is designed to help local associations fulfill the National Association of REALTORS^® (NAR) Core Standards Consumer Outreach component by supporting initiatives that highlight REALTOR^® involvement and promote the value of community engagement.

These types of efforts don’t just make headlines—they make a lasting impact. Virginia REALTORS^® will continue showcasing the incredible impact our local REALTOR^® associations are making across the commonwealth through this new feature. These acts of service not only strengthen our communities—they promote the REALTOR^® brand as a trusted and engaged community partner.