We all know that Arizona REALTORS® are among the most charitable and giving people in the state. If you volunteer your time (and we know you do) to an organization in the Grand Canyon State. we want to hear your inspirational stories about how your work has made a difference in your community and for you personally.

Thanks to all who submitted their Story of Service! We’ll feature more during the upcoming year!

This little club is way under the radar screen and yet does so much for the community.

I got involved around six years ago and started out volunteering for the annual Easter Parade which brings in thousands of spectators and a handful of volunteers including me run it with precision. Funds raised go to foster teen homes around the valley. I love getting involved with the teens and they are so appreciative and fun to be with.

Other events with Kiwanis include school shopping with less fortunate elementary school children sponsored by The Boys and Girls Club. These kids know who I am and of course, want me to be their personal shopper.

My favorite story is about a 7-year-old girl who saw and fell in love with a hot pink vinyl jacket adorned with rhinestones that took half of our budget plus it was three-digit weather. I explained our budget, the weather and it was also a size too big. Her answers were she didn’t need underwear because no one sees your underwear, she would grow into the jacket and she didn’t care how hot it was….she loved that jacket and in fact, she told me she was going to wear it the first day of school, picture day and to bed. She got the jacket.

I’m also a Kiwanis Advisor with Horizon Honors Key Club and was awarded the distinguished honor of Outstanding Kiwanis Advisor of the year presented by Southwest District which covers Arizona, California, New Mexico, and parts of Nevada. I advise and mentor teens in giving back to their community. The award came after letters from students were sent for the nomination.

It was hard to hold back the tears when I read the letters as like many volunteers, we don’t think about what we are doing or the impact we have on others. Reading the following excerpt from a student’s letter showed me how I’m making a difference in my community and personally blessed to be able as a Realtor to give back.

To whom it may concern,

I am writing to recommend Ms. Donna Leeds for Outstanding Kiwanis Advisor. Ms. Donna has been, and continues to be, an integral part of the Horizon Honors High School Key Club for as log as I remember.

From her motivated spirit, infectious positivity, and radiating kindness, Ms. Donna has touched the lives of so many children.

In my situation Ms. Donna sat down with me and problem-solve, strategize, and was a mentor I was able to turn to for anything.

Again, when I read the letters I saw the impact I had on so many young people and even more of an impact they have on me.

Making a difference is a main focus as real estate professionals within Realty ONE Group.

Many of us went down to St. Mary’s Food Bank on the morning of Saturday, November 6th. We spent 2 hours volunteering and packed over 2,300 boxes to feed those in need. We regularly give back and our amazing agent Christina Gatewood organizes the event.

It is always a good feeling to know that you have made a difference with someone even if you have never met them. #MakingOthersMatter

Have an inspirational story about a worthy volunteer organization you’d like to share? Let us know and we’ll add it to this page soon!