For more than 22 years, local Realtors® in the Somerset-Lake Cumberland region have helped raise money for local organizations through a charity auction held annually, this year in July. Through generous donations, help and support from area businesses, the group has raised over $160,000 during that time.
This year, Realtors® selected two groups to receive proceeds from the auction – Hospice of Lake Cumberland and the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge. The auction raised over $10,000 and the groups will split the funds to further their missions.
“Supporting our communities is something Realtors® do throughout the year, and this auction is a wonderful reflection of that commitment,” said Stephanie Bastin local Realtor®, chair of the Public Relations Committee. “What makes this fundraiser so special is the incredible generosity of local businesses, community partners, and residents who continue to rally behind this cause. Their enthusiasm and support are what make this event possible year after year.”
The event, which coincided with the May membership meeting this year, consisted of an online auction that lasted several days and was made up of items and donations from local businesses. Additionally, on the day of the event, a live auction was held, and the winner of a major raffle item was drawn and announced.
The funds will assist Hospice of Lake Cumberland with a special fundraising campaign to replace all 8 hospital beds in their Jean Waddle Care Center. These hospital beds provide comfort, safety, and dignity to patients during some of life's most difficult moments. American Cancer Society will use these funds for the Hope Lodge operating fund which provides a free home away from home for cancer patients and their caregivers.
“We’re honored to partner with organizations that make such a meaningful impact in the lives of people across our community,” said Barry Turner, a board member with Bluegrass Realtors®. “Realtors® understand that our responsibility extends beyond helping people buy and sell homes. Investing in local organizations and supporting those who strengthen our neighborhoods is one of the many ways we help build communities where people can thrive.”
As the region’s leading advocate for homeownership, Bluegrass Realtors® understands the value and joy of owning a home. The Association represents more than 4,000 Realtors® located in 38 counties: Anderson, Bath, Bell, Bourbon, Boyle, Casey, Clark, Clay, Elliott, Estill, Fayette, Franklin, Garrard, Harrison, Henry, Jackson, Jessamine, Knox, Laurel, Lee, Lincoln, Madison, McCreary, Menifee, Mercer, Montgomery, Nicholas, Owsley, Powell, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Rowan, Russell, Scott, Shelby, Wayne, Whitley and Woodford counties. Visit www.bluegrassrealtors.com for up-to-the-minute real estate listings and buying and selling resources.