California REALTORS® Lead Initiative to Raise $600,000 for Wildfire Relief Efforts

California REALTORS® Step Up for Wildfire Disaster Relief

In a powerful display of solidarity, REALTORS® from California and nationwide have united to support those impacted by the catastrophic wildfires engulfing Southern California. On January 16, 2025, the California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) revealed its commitment to contribute a total of $600,000 to two key charitable funds aimed at assisting both REALTORS® and the wider community who have suffered significant losses due to these recent disasters.

Fundraising Efforts and Contributions

C.A.R. has allocated $300,000 to its own Disaster Relief Fund (DRF), which is established to provide grants to its members, inclusive of over 190,000 REALTORS® and their associated staff. At present, the fund is disbursing grants reaching up to $10,000 for those who have been affected by the wildfires in Southern California. Since its inception, the DRF has witnessed remarkable support, raising an impressive total of over $2.7 million, with more than $1.9 million distributed in grants to families in need.

Additionally, the $300,000 will be donated to the REALTORS® Relief Foundation managed by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). This national nonprofit is responsible for delivering financial assistance to public members in the aftermath of natural disasters. Notably, NAR is dedicated to ensuring that 100% of the contributions received for the REALTORS® Relief Fund (RRF) until January 31, 2025, will directly assist those impacted by the current wildfires in the Los Angeles area.

The Importance of Community Support

Heather Ozur, the president of C.A.R., expressed profound concern for those affected by the fires, emphasizing, "Our hearts and thoughts are with all those impacted by these devastating wildfires. This is not just an L.A. crisis – it's a statewide crisis. These funds enable REALTORS® from across the state to collectively support their Southern Californian colleagues and the broader community that is hurting."

Ozur commended the local REALTORS® who have stepped up to volunteer in direct relief efforts, underscoring their commitment to assisting both those in need and local emergency response workers. "To everyone impacted and our local colleagues on the ground, we want you to know that we are with you, we support you, and we are working tirelessly to provide necessary aid at this critical time. We encourage the broader community to join us in contributing to these essential fundraising efforts."

How to Help

Those who wish to support C.A.R.'s Disaster Relief Fund can make a tax-deductible donation. Members of the REALTOR® community needing assistance can visit the REALTORS® Care website to fill out an application. Comprehensive details on how to donate or apply for a grant can be accessed through C.A.R.'s official website at car.org/difference/realtorscare.

The REALTORS® Relief Foundation has significantly impacted over 20,000 families since its inception in 2001, channeling over $40 million in support both within and outside the REALTOR® family. This organization is actively receiving contributions marked specifically for the victims of the California wildfires. Donations can be made conveniently via text by sending "RRFCASTRONG" to 71777, or by visiting Realtor.com/rrfcafires.

About the California Association of REALTORS®

For nearly 120 years, the California Association of REALTORS® has been a pivotal force in the real estate industry, representing around 200,000 members dedicated to enhancing professionalism across the sector. With headquarters located in Sacramento, C.A.R. continues to lead efforts in advancing the interests of REALTORS® and addressing community needs during crises like the current wildfire disaster.