National Association of REALTORS Honors 2025 Good Neighbor Awards Finalists
Chicago, the National Association of REALTORS announced the 10 finalists for its 2025 Good Neighbor Awards today. These awards recognize REALTORS who create meaningful impacts in their communities through volunteer efforts, dedicating their time, resources, and talents to enhance lives. Celebrating its 26th year, the Good Neighbor Awards have honored 260 agents from diverse backgrounds, highlighting their dedication across various states and countries.
Recognition of Community Focus
"Each of these finalists embodies the true essence of real estate by prioritizing people and communities," said NAR President Kevin Sears. "Their outstanding work transcends merely aiding clients in real estate transactions; they foster hope, opportunity, and community resilience every day." This sentiment reflects the core values of the association.
Grants and Public Participation
Among this year's exceptional finalists, five distinguished winners, as decided by judges, will receive a $10,000 grant, alongside national media exposure for their respective charitable causes. Additionally, five honorable mentions will secure $2,500 grants. From October 7 to November 6, the public can vote for their favorite finalist as a Web Choice Favorite. The top participant will receive a $2,500 grant for their charity, and the runners-up will each earn $1,250. The announcement of winners and favorites will occur on November 10.
Meet the Finalists
The 10 finalists for the 2025 Good Neighbor Awards include:
Brian Boven
From Rockford, MI, Brian Boven co-founded Homes Giving Hope, providing supportive housing for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. His initiative has allowed 18 young adults to live independently while receiving essential life skills training.
Cindy Bradley
Cindy Bradley, located in Knoxville, TN, established Sacred Ground Hospice House after experiencing personal loss. Her hospice center has offered compassionate care to nearly 800 patients in their final days, ensuring comfort and dignity.
Kimberly Clifton
In Tucson, AZ, Kimberly Clifton leads the Tierra Antigua Hope Foundation. Her mission supports low-income families by providing critical resources like car seats and cribs, aimed at keeping families together and supporting teens aging out of the foster care system.
Betsy Herald
Betsy Herald, from Boston, MA, co-founded Great Dog Rescue New England, which rescues dogs by mobilizing an extensive network of foster homes. She has benefited over 29,000 dogs and raised significant funds for their medical care.
Jantrice Johnson
Jantrice Johnson in Murfreesboro, TN transformed her back-to-school supply drive into a community movement. Through her nonprofit, We Give, she has supported over 10,000 students experiencing poverty by providing essential supplies and services.
Ken Larson
Ken Larson, hailing from Duluth, MN, is the founder of the Northern Lights Foundation. His organization grants support to over 300 families facing life-threatening illnesses, aiming to comfort and assist during their hardest times.
Ray Manzoni
Ray Manzoni in Mount Sinai, NY has been a long-time advocate for ALS patients, raising funds to provide essential services and equipment, greatly impacting countless lives in the process.
Scott Matthias
Scott Matthias from Greenwood Village, CO, co-founded Knock Knock Angels Colorado to help veterans overcoming homelessness by furnishing their new homes. His efforts have transformed lives, providing much-appreciated support.
Stacey Ruwe
Stacey Ruwe in Spring Lake, MI offers a lifeline for families facing eviction. Her organization delivers emergency housing aid swiftly and coordinates various community assistance programs annually.
JacQuan Winters
Finally, JacQuan Winters, based in Tuscaloosa, AL, initiated the Kristen Amerson Youth Foundation in honor of his late sister. He focuses on youth mental health and suicide prevention, reaching thousands of children through educational programs.
Final Thoughts on the Good Neighbor Awards
The nominees are assessed based on their dedication of resources, time, and personal effort towards meaningful causes. The Good Neighbor Awards are supported by the primary sponsor Realtor.com. Mickey Neuberger, Chief Marketing Officer of Realtor.com, emphasized the value of these finalists, stating their commitment inspires everyone to make a difference in their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Good Neighbor Awards?
The Good Neighbor Awards recognize REALTORS who make significant contributions to their communities through volunteer work.
Who are the finalists for the 2025 awards?
The finalists include Brian Boven, Cindy Bradley, Kimberly Clifton, Betsy Herald, Jantrice Johnson, Ken Larson, Ray Manzoni, Scott Matthias, Stacey Ruwe, and JacQuan Winters.
How can the public participate in the awards process?
The public can vote for their favorite finalist between October 7 and November 6 as part of the Web Choice Favorite initiative.
What do winners receive?
Winners will receive a $10,000 grant and national media recognition for their charity efforts.
How many finalists have been recognized since the awards began?
Since the awards' inception, 260 agents have been honored for their community contributions.
