Honoring the Hearts of Real Estate
Every year, the National Association of REALTORS showcases inspiring individuals who demonstrate unwavering commitment to their communities. The 2025 Good Neighbor Awards have officially announced their 10 finalists, each representing the true spirit of service. This recognition, now in its 26th year, has honored agents who contribute selflessly to uplift those around them. Through years of dedication, over 260 REALTORS have been celebrated for their impactful work across 44 states, Puerto Rico, and even 17 countries around the globe.
The Power of Community Engagement
According to NAR President Kevin Sears, "These finalists exemplify the heart of real estate, reminding us that it is about people and their communities." The transformations these individuals facilitate go far beyond transactions; they actively foster hope, create opportunities, and strengthen the community fabric day in and day out.
Recognizing Excellence with Financial Support
This year, five deserving winners will each receive a grant of $10,000 and widespread media exposure for their charitable work. Additionally, five honorable mentions will be awarded $2,500 each, highlighting the importance of each contribution. From October 7 to November 6, the public is invited to vote for their favorite finalist as part of the Web Choice Favorite initiative. The top vote-getter will be awarded an additional $2,500 donation for their cause.
Meet the Finalists Making a Difference
The finalists this year come from varied backgrounds and causes, illustrating the breadth of volunteerism within the REALTOR community. Here are their powerful stories:
Brian Boven - Homes Giving Hope
Based in Rockford, MI, Brian Boven has been a champion for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. His organization, Homes Giving Hope, has helped 18 individuals secure housing while promoting independence and community integration through essential life skills training.
Cindy Bradley - Sacred Ground Hospice House
After the loss of her husband, Cindy Bradley established the only hospice center in Knoxville, TN. Sacred Ground Hospice House has provided compassionate care for nearly 800 patients over four years, offering families a nurturing environment during at one of life's most difficult journeys.
Kimberly Clifton - Tierra Antigua Hope Foundation
In Tucson, AZ, Kimberly Clifton’s work addresses the needs of poverty-stricken families, ensuring children remain with their families rather than entering the foster care system. Working with welfare programs, she focuses on supplying immediate necessities to promote stability and community cohesion.
Betsy Herald - Great Dog Rescue New England
Betsy Herald has dedicated herself to saving dogs through her non-profit in Boston, MA. By leveraging a network of foster homes, she has saved thousands of dogs and raised substantial funds for their care. Her organization also supports women escaping abusive situations.
Jantrice Johnson - We Give/Back to School Bash
From a simple back-to-school initiative, Jantrice Johnson's nonprofit now assists over 10,000 kids each year in Murfreesboro, TN, providing school supplies and personal care to children facing hardship, fostering dignity and support.
Ken Larson - Northern Lights Foundation
Ken Larson dedicates his efforts to supporting families in Duluth, MN, facing life-threatening illnesses through his foundation, which honors his late daughter. He has provided grants to over 300 families, assuring they feel the community's support during their hardest times.
Ray Manzoni - ALS Ride For Life
Since 1998, Ray Manzoni has fought tirelessly for ALS patients, raising significant funds and advocating for essential services that empower patients living with this challenging disease.
Scott Matthias - Knock Knock Angels Colorado
In Greenwood Village, CO, Scott Matthias helps homeless veterans settle into new lives by providing essential household items for their new homes, ensuring they have the basics to turn a house into a home.
Stacey Ruwe - Soup For All Inc DBA Homeless Prevention Partners
Stacey Ruwe in Spring Lake, MI, has played a crucial role in helping families facing eviction or foreclosure by delivering emergency housing aid and coordinating assistance for various needs, creating a safety net for many.
JacQuan Winters - Kristen Amerson Youth Foundation
Tuscaloosa’s JacQuan Winters created a nonprofit focused on youth mental health in memory of his sister. His foundation has reached over 20,000 children across Alabama, providing valuable resources for mental wellness and resilience.
Looking Ahead
Nominees for the Good Neighbor Awards are assessed based on their contributions of time, financial resources, and advocacy. The support for these awards is bolstered by Realtor.com, whose commitment to enhancing lives through real estate aligns with the spirit of the nominees.
NAR's coordinated effort to support community initiatives reflects the importance of REALTORS in society. Each finalist stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication agents have toward empowering communities and effecting positive change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Good Neighbor Awards?
The Good Neighbor Awards recognize REALTORS who have made significant contributions to their communities through volunteer work and charitable efforts.
Who are the finalists for the 2025 Good Neighbor Awards?
The finalists include ten remarkable REALTORS from various states, each contributing to impactful community causes.
How can the public participate in the Awards?
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 of the Good Neighbor Awards will receive a $10,000 grant and media exposure for their charitable work, while honorable mentions will receive $2,500 grants.
How long have the Good Neighbor Awards been established?
The Good Neighbor Awards have been recognizing extraordinary REALTORS for 26 years, celebrating their community service and dedication.
