R
ose Varona, a qualifying broker, office manager, and property manager at Realty One of New Mexico, enjoys joining fellow volunteers of a motorcycle ministry group to distribute food and drinks for the homeless in downtown Albuquerque, N.M., from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. In addition to providing nourishment, they offer prayers and resources for individuals seeking to reunite with their families or requiring medical care. Varona's passion for helping others was ignited when she heard about the motorcycle ministry's need for volunteers for late-night food distribution at church. She brings her children along for the ride to help them understand the hard realities faced by homeless individuals and appreciate their blessings.

    Varona believes that volunteering is beneficial for both personal and professional growth. It helps build strong relationships within the community and improves the brokerage's reputation. Engaging in community activities has opened doors for her to valuable networking opportunities and helped build relationships with many families and businesses. Moreover, research has shown that volunteering can improve one's overall health and attitude.

    Francesca Lampert, a practitioner at Johnston Lampert Group at Coldwell Banker Realty in Menlo Park, Calif., also believes in the power of volunteering. She sees it as an extension of her job as a real estate agent, helping people within their community. Lampert and her partner, Bob Johnston, area builders and other real estate professionals have formed Community Builders Foundation, a nonprofit that helps the aging population age in place so they can remain in their communities.

    Lampert believes that leaders can set an example by volunteering. Her office offers several opportunities for agents to get involved, including sponsoring plays and events at local elementary schools and running food and toy drives around the holidays. Varona agrees that incorporating volunteer opportunities into the workplace can lead to a happier, healthier, and more engaged team, benefitting staff, agents, and the brokerage.

    Here are some other ideas brokerages can implement to get more involved in the community: partner with local businesses, volunteer at kids' schools and events, host community workshops, give some hours to one of your passions, or donate to a charity you are passionate about. No matter what your brokerage decides, getting involved at the community level solidifies your position and helps agents feel more connected. It's a great way to show agents that you care about more than just the bottom line, leading to successful relationships in the business as well.